OPS PUBLIC INFORMATION SPECIALIST - 77900740

Requisition No: 855057 

Agency: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Working Title: OPS PUBLIC INFORMATION SPECIALIST - 77900740

 Pay Plan: Temp

Position Number: 77900740 

Salary:  $20-22 / hour, depending on experience 

Posting Closing Date: 07/10/2025 

Total Compensation Estimator Tool

Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (FWRI)

Public Information Specialist I -OPS

$20 - 22 per hour – Depending on experience

100 8th Ave SE.

St. Petersburg, FL

 FWRI Communications Office

Public Information Specialist- OPS 77900740

Tallahassee, Florida - $20 - 22 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 communications or a related role.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including proficiency in AP style.

Strong organizational and project management skills.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with content management systems.

Valid driver’s license and ability to pass a Level 2 background check.

 
Preferred Qualifications: 

Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, marketing, or a related field.

Two years of professional experience in communications or a related role.

Experience working in a government, scientific, or research communications environment.

Demonstrated ability to translate complex or technical information into clear, engaging content for broad audiences.

Experience developing and managing external communications across social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn), including content creation, scheduling, and audience engagement strategies

Proficiency with content creation tools, including graphic design software (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite) and/or basic video editing software.

Requirements:

Valid driver’s license

Office hours are Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Standard time.

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

This announcement may be used to fill multiple positions.

 
Position Overview and Responsibilities:

We are looking for a creative, proactive communicator passionate about science, wildlife, and community engagement to lead the Fish and Wildlife Research Institute’s social media strategy and storytelling. This position will serve as the social media specialist for the FWRI, a division of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

The ideal candidate is a strong storyteller responsible for developing and executing social media strategies that support FWRI’s research, staff, goals, and initiatives. This includes creating content using photography, videography, writing, and streaming tools to inform and educate the public.

This position manages FWRI’s presence on core platforms (Facebook, Instagram) and coordinates with agency partners to create content for X, LinkedIn, YouTube, and Flickr producing posts that encourage conversation and outreach. The specialist also provides social media coverage at select events, which may occur during or outside regular work hours, and monitors platforms to coordinate timely, thoughtful responses to comments, questions, and feedback that reflects positively on FWRI.

Responsibilities also include analyzing social media performance and adjusting strategy based on data-driven insights; developing social media guidelines, tools, and best practices for staff; and collaborating with the Communications team to maximize content reach and cross-promotion. The specialist serves as FWRI’s lead representative at social media strategy planning meetings and is responsible for planning, creating, and managing editorial content calendars across platforms.

Due to the critical responsibilities of this position, the employee may be required to respond outside of typically scheduled hours to meet operational 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:

Strong understanding of social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, YouTube) and best practices for each.

 Ability to develop and implement social media strategies to support outreach, education, and engagement goals.

Proficiency in social media management for scheduling, monitoring, and analytics.

Familiarity with accessibility and inclusivity best practices for digital and social content.

Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple campaigns, content calendars, and deadlines.

Ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams, subject matter experts, and partners to create and approve content.

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

Excellent copywriting and editing skills tailored for digital and social audiences; ability to write in a clear, concise, and engaging voice.

Proficiency in content creation (writing, photos, and video production).

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.