Bernalillo County is 1,160 square miles and is New Mexico’s most populous county with more than 676,000 residents. Bernalillo County government provides a wide range of public services to residents who live in Albuquerque, Los Ranchos and Tijeras with approximately 106,000 residents living in unincorporated areas of the county. Bernalillo County employs approximately 2,500 people and has an annual operating budget, capital investments and other funds of more than $1 billion. Elected officials include five county commissioners, assessor, clerk, probate judge, sheriff and treasurer.

Bernalillo County

Department of Human Resources

Job Descriptions

What does the red Zia symbol mean? The Zia sun symbol represent the four cardinal directions, the four seasons of the year, the four period of each day (morning, noon, evening, and night), and the four seasons of life (childhood, youth, middle age, and old age). The centre of the sun symbol stands for life itself. The yellow field with red symbol pays recognition to the Aragon Realm of the conquistadors and their homeland in Spain.
JCP207: Communications Specialist

Communications Specialist

Job Code
Grade
Bargaining Unit
JCP207
6
None
       
       
Salary
As Hourly
As Annual
54,018.00 - 67,870.00 - 85,363.00 USD Annual
$25.97 - $32.63 - $41.04
$54,018.00 - $67,870.00 - $85,363.00

POSITION SUMMARY

The Communications Specialist develops comprehensive communication strategies for the assigned division and/or County elected official(s). Works with internal departments to promote, publicize, and support the objectives of projects and initiatives. Manages and coordinates internal communication activities to inform employees about programs, services, and initiatives. Updates the internal website, produces content in various formats, and collaborates with HR and other departments to create employee engagement opportunities. Serves as a team player by working with cross-trained peers to support other departmental functions. Assignments are coordinated through the Communication Services Director.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Responds to and works directly with the media and/or organizations to prepare and distribute public service announcements, fact sheets, and other information.
  • Writes and coordinates the distribution of news releases, articles, brochures, and information packets based on the needs of the assigned division and/or elected official(s).
  • Develops public awareness campaigns for County programs, services, and initiatives using exhibits, videography, photography, special presentations, and the government access cable channel. Identifies target audiences and executes effective communication techniques, including social media.
  • Collaborates with management, department staff, and other teams to ensure consistent branding and public relations.
  • Coordinates and schedules speaking engagements, special events, and media interviews to convey information about specific programs, inquiries, or events.
  • Creates, edits, and revises materials, including correspondence and documents, for the assigned division and elected official(s).
  • Coordinates the creation, design, and layout of publications, including the arrangement of print, photography, illustrations, and artwork.
  • Plans and coordinates events, such as ribbon-cutting ceremonies and groundbreaking events.
  • Handles sensitive and/or confidential records, plans, documents, or decisions, and maintains confidentiality of information.

*The above information is intended to outline the general nature and scope of the duties required for this position. It is not an exhaustive list and may vary depending on specific job assignments and responsibilities. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations, or a related field.
  • Two (2) years related work experience in public information.

*Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience may be considered for the above requirements. 

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

SCREENING AND COMPLIANCE

The offer of this Bernalillo County position requires compliance with the following:

  • Complete the post-offer employment medical examination and background investigation. Employee complies with the safety guidelines of the County.
  • Complete required FEMA training(s) as assigned to the position. Employee possesses a valid New Mexico driver’s license by the employment date and maintains a valid license while employed in this position.

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Essential duties are performed primarily indoors (90%) and occasionally outdoors (10%). Indoor duties take place in a temperature-controlled environment. Employee is exposed to natural weather conditions while performing outdoor duties.
  • Indoor duties are performed on even surfaces, which may be carpeted or tiled. Surfaces are typically dry.
  • Outdoor duties are performed on even or uneven surfaces, which may be wet or dry. Surfaces may be inclined or flat and may include gravel, asphalt, or concrete.
  • Most duties are performed independently. Some tasks may be completed as part of a select team.

EQUIPMENT, TOOLS, AND MATERIALS

  • Equipment typically used in the performance of office duties includes telephone, computer, printer, and copy machine.

  • Materials and products handled include files, forms, reports, paperwork, and a variety of basic office supplies.
  • A County vehicle is used occasionally.
Revision: 8/21/2025 1:40:29 PM