Location: Multi-Site: Anywhere in Newfoundland and Labrador
(Primary Location: O'Leary Ave.)
Media Specialist (Policy, Planning and Research Analyst)
Management Support
Communications - Provincial Public Affairs
(Subject to Classification Review)
Permanent Full-time
28758POS

Hours: 75 Bi-weekly (8 hours; Days)

Salary: CG-35 ($32.94 - $36.75 per hour)

Competition Number: VAC0008770

Posted Date: 2025-04-01

Closing Date: 2025-04-08

Job Summary
NL Health Services is seeking a talented Media Specialist to join our communications team. The Media Specialist will be responsible for the day-to-day management of media monitoring and will support the coordination of media relations activities including proactive media relations and issues management. The specialist will work closely with the Media Relations Manager and collaborate with colleagues within the communications team and program leaders across the health authority to fulfill the duties of this role.

Reporting to the Senior Director of Provincial Public Affairs, the Media Specialist will:
• Support the Media Relations Manager to coordinate, facilitate and respond to day-to-day media requests on behalf of the health authority, including coordinating/supporting in-person/virtual interviews with spokesperson(s), or written statements, in line with organization’s Media Relations Policy.
• Seek out and identify proactive opportunities to share the good news of the organization via traditional media or other methods to secure positive news coverage.
• Develop PSAs and news releases in consultation with subject matter experts.
• Serve as a point of contact for media inquiries, and manage, document and action requests in a timely manner.
• Monitor traditional and social media and develop daily packages and media summaries/analysis, as required.
• Maintain media distribution lists.
• Develop communications plans and strategies for projects or potential issues, including tactics like key messages, Q&As, news releases, etc.
• Support organizational events, including the development of event scenarios and logistical support.
• Create, write and edit engaging content such as media pitches, stories for the website or other platforms.
• Provide expert advice and support media training and coaching with spokespersons.

Job Qualifications
Education
A bachelor's degree in communications, public relations or related field.
Membership and/or affiliation with relevant professional associations may be an asset (e.g., International Association of Business Communicators (IABC), etc.)

Experience
A minimum of three years' experience in the area of public and media relations, communications or another related field is required.
Experience in media monitoring and analysis is preferred.

Competencies (Knowledge, Skills & Abilities)
Excellent communication, writing and editing skills.
Strong understanding of media relations best practices, including monitoring and analysis and familiarity with media monitoring platforms and tools.
Ability to build and maintain relationships with media and respond to tight timelines.
Critical thinking, attention to detail, multi-task, and customer-service oriented.
Demonstrated ability to work autonomously and collaboratively within a fast-paced team environment.
Well-organized with a sense of urgency and an ability to balance competing priorities and meet deadlines.
Knowledge or experience working in health care or public organizations.

Other
A satisfactory record of work performance and attendance is required.
Ability to work outside of regular working hours and to travel to other sites as required on short notice.
Remote work opportunities available. This position can be located anywhere in Newfoundland and Labrador and may be required to meet the requirements of a 'Work From Home' agreement.

A writing exercise may be administered as part of the interview process.

Alternate combinations of education and experience may be considered.