Information Officer

State of South Dakota

About the Role

The Marketing & Communications Specialist collaborates within the SDDOT Public Information Team to develop, coordinate, and advance communication strategies to increase customer awareness and engagement with SDDOT. This is a Full-Time 40 Hours Weekly position with the Department of Transportation.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the writing of press releases and specific project communication efforts using AP styling guidelines.
• Review public meeting documentation and materials for correct AP styling and SDDOT brand consistency.
• Respond daily to the traveling public through social media messages, email inquiries, and phone calls.
• Coordinate, create, and produce traditional and digital content for multimedia campaigns and projects for internal and external platforms, including social media.
• Create graphics and designs using the Adobe suite and Canva.
• Plan, develop, and manage digital content as part of an integrated online/social media communication strategy.
• Assist with coordination of the social media schedule, including daily posts, live streams, networking, and advertising.
• Assist with updates to the Departments Internet and Intranet site.
• Stay up-to-date on industry-wide digital best practices to guide the DOT's approach to operational efficiency and transparency with customers.
• Utilize professional camera and video equipment and editing software such as Adobe Creative Suite, including knowledge of microphones and lighting for on-location photo and video shoots.
• Assist in the management of media budgets across various traditional and digital platforms, ensuring maximum return.
• Generate and analyze reports on campaign performance to recommend strategy adjustments.
• Assist with new marketing strategies on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and Indeed to grow customer engagement.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Knowledge of journalism and mass communication principles and techniques related to editing, writing, designing, and producing information materials.
• Strong understanding of AP styling and English usage.
• Knowledge of graphic design and photo/video editing software using Adobe Creative Suite and Canva.
• Knowledge of website development and maintenance using Dreamweaver and Umbraco.
• Knowledge of web design tools such as WordPress.
• Knowledge of social media principles and methods.
• Experience with Dreamweaver and CMS (Content Management System) is preferred.
• Proficiency in Google Analytics 4, Google Ads, and Google Tag Manager.
• Experience with Microsoft Suite, predominantly Office, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, and SharePoint.

Skills

• Principles and practices of video production, including camera operation, composition, lighting, sound recording, graphics, titles, and editing.
• Ability to write scripts and craft short informational videos.
• Ability to write and edit with AP Styling.
• Ability to conduct research, analyze, and interpret information.
• Ability to coordinate with Project Engineers Statewide to gather information on active construction projects.
• Ability to organize and express information concisely and effectively.
• Ability to write, edit, and design publications.
• Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate public relations functions.
• Ability to perform layout and design work.

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in public relations, marketing, journalism, or mass communications is preferred.
• Ability to work during evenings and/or on weekends throughout the year when weather-related situations, special events, or projects occur.
• Ability to manage a diverse set of project assignments simultaneously, completing each in a timely manner.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, with various audiences.
• Ability to establish, maintain, and foster positive working relationships with DOT employees across the state.
• Ability to tell stories and create and edit content, social media posts, etc., to promote a consistent and unified voice across all marketing platforms.
• Ability to deal tactfully with others, both internal employees and external customers.
• Ability to organize and prioritize multiple projects.
• Ability to work under pressure of deadlines.
• Ability to positively represent the department.

Additional Requirements

• Please attach writing samples with your application.
• Verification of identity and eligibility to work in the United States will be required.
• All persons hired will be required to complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I-9.
• The State of South Dakota uses E-Verify to complete employment eligibility verification upon hire.