Job Description

Position Number: 22179671
County: Pulaski
Posting End Date: June 1, 2026
Anticipated Starting Salary: $57,351
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As the largest industry in Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. The Department is organized into five Divisions: Forestry Division, Livestock and Poultry Division, Natural Resources Division, Plant Industries Division, and Shared Services Division.

Hiring manager:

Ayden Duncan

ayden.duncan@arkansas.gov

Preferred qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, or a related field.
• Experience in public information, media relations, marketing, or communications is preferred.
• Government or agriculture‑related experience is a plus but not required.
• Exceptional writing and editing skills with the ability to create clear, engaging, and accurate content.
• Strong understanding of social media best practices, content strategy, and analytics.
• Ability to distill complex topics into accessible public messaging.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Experience with content design tools and website content management systems.
• Familiarity with media relations, including preparing talking points and supporting interviews.

Position Information

Job Series: Public Relations – Career-path

Classification: Public Information Coordinator

Class Code: CPR05P

Pay Grade: SGS07

Salary Range: $57,351 - $84,879

The Public Information Coordinator is responsible for assisting in the development and dissemination of communication materials. This position involves writing press releases, managing media inquiries, organizing public events, and ensuring that the agency’s messaging is clear, accurate, and consistent across all communication channels. The Public Information Coordinator works closely with senior staff to support the implementation of communication strategies.

Primary Responsibilities

Write, edit, and distribute press releases, newsletters, and other media communications.
Coordinate media inquiries and facilitate interviews between the media and appropriate agency staff.
Manage the agency’s social media accounts, ensuring timely and relevant updates.
Assist in the organization and execution of public outreach events, including press conferences, town halls, and community forums.
Monitor media coverage and report on public sentiment and media mentions.
Assist in preparing talking points, speeches, and other communication materials for senior leadership.
Ensure that all public information materials are aligned with state policies and legal guidelines.

Knowledge and Skills

Strong writing and editing skills, with the ability to create clear and concise messaging for diverse audiences.
Knowledge of media relations practices and experience working with journalists.
Familiarity with social media platforms and web-based communication tools.
Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
Ability to work collaboratively with internal teams and external stakeholders.
Basic understanding of crisis communication and public information management.
Experience in writing and editing press materials or content for public dissemination.

Minimum Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree with a major in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field preferred. Two years of experience in public relations, communications, or related areas.

Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.

Licensure/Certifications

N/A
OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.