OPS Public Information Specialist - 77907664

Requisition No: 861460 

Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Working Title: OPS Public Information Specialist - 77907664

 Pay Plan: Temp

Position Number: 77907664 

Salary:  $20- $23 per hour, depending on experience 

Posting Closing Date: 10/06/2025 

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Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI)

Public Information Specialist I (OPS)

$20 - $23 per hour – Depending on experience

100 8th Ave SE

St. Petersburg, FL

 FWRI Communications Office

Public Information Specialist I – OPS 77907664

St. Petersburg, Florida - $20- $23 per hour

Our organization:

The FWC envisions a Florida where fish and wildlife are abundant and thriving in healthy and connected natural landscapes with vital working lands and waterways; where natural resources are valued and safely enjoyed by all; and wherein natural systems support vibrant human communities and a strong economy.

Our Mission: Managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people.

Every organization has an identity that is forged not only by what it does, but by how it conducts itself.  The values embedded in our mission and expressed in the vision of the FWC are to make quality decisions by being dynamic, science-informed, efficient, ethical, collaborative and committed to the vitality of the state and its environment.

Minimum Qualifications:
One year of professional experience in media relations, communications, public affairs, or journalism.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including proficiency in AP Style.
Strong organizational and project management skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Microsoft Teams, and OneDrive.
Valid driver’s license and ability to pass a Level 2 background check.

 
Preferred Qualifications: 
Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations or a related field.
Two years of professional experience in media relations, communications, public affairs, or journalism.
Experience with writing for the media, including press releases, media alerts, and official statements.
Experience working in a government, scientific, or communications environment.

Requirements:
Employment in this position is contingent upon a satisfactory Level 1 and Level 2 background check at no cost to the candidate. 

Must have a valid driver’s license.

This position is based in St. Petersburg, Florida, with office hours from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday. Telework is not available.
Must provide examples of previous work (e.g., writing samples, media, communications projects).

 
Position Overview and Responsibilities:

We are seeking a strategic, proactive communicator passionate about science, fish and wildlife, and conservation issues to serve as the media spokesperson for the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI), a division of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

The ideal candidate is a strong writer and storyteller with proven experience in media relations and public communications. This position will support FWRI’s efforts by drafting and distributing press releases, media alerts, talking points, and official statements, ensuring complex scientific topics are translated into clear, engaging messages for the public.

This position will assist in building and maintaining relationships with members of the media, handling both proactive outreach to highlight research initiatives and reactive responses to media inquiries. The spokesperson will coordinate interviews and responses with scientific staff, assist with preparing staff for interviews, and monitor news coverage to ensure timely and accurate follow-up with reporters and editors.

Responsibilities also include collaborating with the Communications team to align media strategies with broader outreach goals, supporting agency events with on-site media coordination, and ensuring FWRI’s work is represented with accuracy, professionalism, and impact. The position requires excellent judgment, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure while meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Due to the critical responsibilities of this position, the employee may be required to respond outside of typically scheduled hours to meet operational or media needs. While much of the work occurs in an office setting, this position may require occasional travel to sites across the state, including time spent outdoors or on vessels. Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Familiarity with media relations practices, including building and maintaining relationships with local, state, and national reporters, editors, and outlets.

Ability to develop and implement proactive and reactive media strategies, including pitching stories, responding to inquiries, and providing accurate, timely information.

Ability to draft and coordinate the distribution of press releases, media alerts, talking points, and official statements that align with agency goals.

Assist in media training and preparation, including coaching staff for interviews and public appearances.

Knowledge of AP Style with attention to accuracy, tone, and brand consistency.

Ability to translate complex scientific or technical subjects into clear, concise language for general audiences.

Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to serve effectively as a spokesperson in interviews, press conferences, and public events.

Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and coordinate media efforts across teams.

Proficiency in content creation and storytelling (writing, photography, video) to support media and public outreach.

Why should I apply?

The Benefits of Working for the State of Florida:
*Eligible OPS positions and qualifying applicants may enjoy top-tier benefits offerings including comprehensive health coverage to meet the needs of you and your family while maintaining low deductibles and low monthly out-of-pocket contributions. 

Biweekly Health Insurance Premiums: $7.50 or $25.00 for Single / $32.15 or $90.00 for Family

Low Cost $25,000 Life Insurance

OPS FICA Alternative Retirement Plan

On the Job Trainings

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

For a more complete list of benefits, visit https://www.mybenefits.myflorida.com/.

The State of Florida is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer, and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace.

Candidates requiring a reasonable accommodation, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act, must notify the agency hiring authority and/or People First Service Center (1-866-663-4735). Notification to the hiring authority must be made in advance to allow sufficient time to provide the accommodation.

The State of Florida supports a Drug-Free workplace. All employees are subject to reasonable suspicion drug testing in accordance with Section 112.0455, F.S., Drug-Free Workplace Act.