Public Relations Specialist

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Maine State Library

Opening Date:August 28 2026

Closing Date:September 14 2026

Grade/ Admin Unit:20 / Professional/Technical

Job Class Code:0824
Salary: $20.68 - $28.88/Hourly
Position Number:

Location:Augusta

Currently this position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or STEM OPT extensions.

OVERVIEW:

This position informs and engages the public Maines library community the Maine Legislature and congressional delegation and other stakeholders about the programs services resources policies and events of the Maine State Library (MSL) an independent state agency. Serving as MSLs media liaison this position delivers clear consistent and compelling communications that increase awareness and support for library services statewide. Work is performed under limited supervision. Occasional evening weekend and statewide travel is required. Hybrid work option is available after initial 6-month period.

DESCRIPTION:

This key position leads and coordinates the Maine State Librarys communications marketing and public relations efforts to increase awareness engagement and support for MSL programs and services statewide. Responsibilities include developing and implementing strategic communications plans; cultivating relationships with library staff state agencies legislators media partners and the public; and overseeing content development across print digital social media and event platforms.

The position manages public relations initiatives supports website and digital communications designs promotional materials and exhibits and serves as a spokesperson model and resource for effective public relations practices throughout Maines library community. The incumbent works independently while collaborating closely with staff across MSL and partner organizations.

REPRESENTATIVETASKS:

• Leads the development implementation and evaluation of a comprehensive communications and marketing strategy aligned with MSLs mission strategic plan and core values.
• Develops implements and maintains MSL branding standards and messaging guidelines.
• Ensures consistency in messaging voice templates taglines and logo usage across all communications.
• Cultivates positive relationships with state agencies the Governors Office legislators congressional staff and other stakeholders to promote awareness of MSL and Maine library services and initiatives.
• Oversees MSLs website content management systems and social media platforms ensuring content is accurate current accessible and responsive to public inquiries.
• Writes and edits press releases talking points speeches reports newsletters and other communications materials including MSLs quarterly e-newsletter.
• Plans and implements events campaigns and outreach activities that promote MSL programs and services.
• Collects analyzes and reports communications and program metrics to assess effectiveness and inform future strategies.
• Leads and coordinates MSLs social media strategy and content development.
• Provides guidance training and models effective public relations practices for library staff statewide.
• Develops and maintains strategic partnerships at the local state and national levels.
• Produces and edits photography and video content to promote MSL programs services and events.
• Coordinates media relations activities and represents MSL at press conferences and public events.
• Designs develops and maintains portable exhibits and displays promoting MSL and Maine libraries.
• Creates promotional materials including infographics brochures flyers presentations and other print and digital communications.

KNOWLEDGESSKILLSANDABILITIESREQUIRED:

We are seeking candidates with demonstrated knowledge skills and abilities in the following areas:

• Excellent written verbal and interpersonal communication skills.
• Principles and practices of public relations communications and marketing.
• Organizational social media strategy and management.
• Building and fostering strategic partnerships and stakeholder relationships.
• Project management in both independent and collaborative environments.
• Team leadership and facilitation.
• Graphic design and visual communications including photography and photo editing software.
• Media production dissemination methods and emerging communications trends.
• Data collection analysis and performance measurement.
• Knowledge of website accessibility standards including WCAG requirements.
• Developing and presenting reports and public information materials.
• Assisting in planning and implementing workshops meetings conferences and public events.
• Designing and constructing portable exhibits and displays.
• Using artificial intelligence tools to support communications marketing and public relations activities effectively and responsibly.
• Working effectively both independently and collaboratively.

MINIMUMQUALIFICATIONS:

Preference will be given to candidates with the following skills or experience:

• Library community development and/or public sector experience
• Experience with web design
• Masters degree in a related field

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If you are unable to complete the online application please contact the Human Resources representative listed on the job opening you are interested in applying for. They will work with you for an alternative method of submitting.