Job Summary
The Community Affairs Specialist is involved in coordinating a variety of functions including, but not limited to, the CCSO Citizen's Police Academy, Project Lifesaver, various community meetings, and training/instruction for community members related to crime prevention or similar topics as needed. The Community Affairs Specialist may provide back-up PIO services in the absence of the PIO. Employees in this position may be called upon to assist other members of the Community Affairs Unit as needed. Works under the supervision of the Community Affairs Supervisor.
Distinguishing Features
This is the second in the series of sub-journey level class within the Community Affairs series. Employees within this class are distinguished from the Community Affairs Technician by the performance of the full range of duties and above average difficulty as assigned. Employees at this level receive occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.
Positions in this class are normally filled by advancement of individuals having one-year experience with CCSO.
Employees in this position may advance to the full journey level Community Affairs Analyst position upon successful completion of two years of experience with the CCSO Community Affairs Unit. In addition, the incumbent must obtain advanced certification in Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) and crime prevention instructor courses as needed.
Essential Job Functions
- Coordinates CCSO Citizen's Police Academy (CPA); Assists in processing CPA applications.
- Coordination of the Project Lifesaver program.
- Assists in responding to media requests for reports and information and producing media releases as necessary.
- Develops and produces various media presentations for CCSO and public use.
- Maintains positive working relationships with community leaders, clubs and organizations.
- Assist in crime prevention efforts.
- Develops and assists in Neighborhood Watch Programs
- Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Ability to make presentations to individuals and groups of diverse ages and composition.
- Ability to relate to individuals at all socioeconomic levels across cultural lines.
- Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
- Ability to work cooperatively with supervisors, peers, program participants, members of the media and the general public.
- Ability to become certified in Project Lifesaver as a Certified Search Specialist.
- Ability to become certified as a Crime Prevention Practitioner for both Residential and Commercial applications.
- Ability to operate all equipment listed in the “Equipment Used” section.
- Ability to multitask assignments.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality of information.
- Ability to use discretion and exercise sound judgment.
- Knowledge of and ability to utilize current social media platforms.
Education or Equivalent Experience Required
- High school diploma or GED.
- Prefer two (2) year degree from accredited college or university in a related field. Other combinations of experience and education that meet the minimum requirements may be substituted.
- Valid FL Driver's License.
- Photography, audio, video editing skills or experience.
- One (1) year experience in Public speaking, media, and public relations experience.
- Ability to obtain a Florida Crime Prevention Practitioner for Residential and Commercial applications.
- Must not be on any disciplinary or performance (PIP) probation.
Equipment Used
Vehicle / Computers / Video and photography cameras and related equipment / Media software and related editing software / Radios / Telephone / Copy Machine
Physical Effort Required
Sitting for long periods, with some walking, standing, bending, stooping, or carrying light objects. Normal manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination; corrected vision to normal range; verbal communication; use of office equipment, including computers, telephones, calculators' copiers, and FAX machines; and filing into filing cabinets. Constant speaking and hearing; very frequent sitting, typing, detailed reading, and editing.
Must be able to move classroom equipment and materials using a handcart/dolly. Carries objects such as projectors, cameras, and screens for distances up to 100 feet. Sets up and/or removes folding tables and chairs for classroom settings and various events. Stands for extended periods of time to make presentations. Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds. Requires frequent driving to and from meetings, events and for other duties.
Working Conditions
Civilian must be able to workday or night in accordance with coordinating the Citizen's Police Academy, assisting with the Volunteer Training Academy, Video Production assignments, and job-related assignments, hours may vary.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT
The Charlotte County Sheriff's Office does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), religion, Veterans Status, age (40 or older) disability or genetic information in employment or the provision of services.
DRUG FREE / SMOKE FREE WORKPLACE / VETERANS PREFERENCE