Communications Specialist 1

Recognized as one of the best places to work in Southeast Minnesota for three consecutive years, at Olmsted County every role helps to foster a vibrant community where everyone thrives. Our employees are at the heart of everything we do, driving public service excellence and community well-being.

We don’t just offer a job, we offer a career filled with purpose, growth, and fulfillment. Our benefits package ensures your wellbeing, while career advancement opportunities and professional development empower you to reach your full potential.

Join us, and you'll be part of a purpose-driven team where your work truly makes a difference. Together, we build a sustainable, healthy, and welcoming community.

Minimum Qualifications of Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in marketing, communication, education, or related field and one (1) year of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.
OR
Associates degree from an accredited college in communications, marketing, education, or related field and three (3) years of experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.
OR
A combination of education and experience equivalent to five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in a similar position as listed in the work functions.
 
Regular and reliable attendance is a necessary component of job/position. Individuals required to use County vehicles and equipment must have a valid driver's license and be free of any major traffic violations for the last three (3) years.

Note: you will be required to submit writing samples and/or a portfolio of past communication work to be considered for this position. 

Nature of Work

Under general supervision, develops and implements a variety of internal and external communications for the Olmsted County government organization to inform both employees and the community about services and programs. Will have primary responsibility for digital communications channels – specifically our public website but will also assist with our intranet. Will participate in communications projects to help build and strengthen the Olmsted County brand through a variety of communications mediums. Supports a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workplace.

Examples of Work

• Conducts day-to-day maintenance of the Olmsted County public website. Oversees county web contributors, reviews and approves pages for publishing, coordinates with web contributors on fixes and enhancements to content, coordinates with our external web vendor, and ensures accessibility of web content. 
• Assists with intranet content development, maintenance of intranet site, and oversight of intranet web contributors.   
• Develops internal and external communications content for distribution through a variety of communications mediums including digital communications, graphic design, social media, photography, and videography. Ensures accuracy, consistency, and positive brand image.
• Coordinates efforts to build and strengthen the Olmsted County brand. Collaborates with web contributors and departments to ensure consistency with county brand standards.  
• Responds to timely or urgent communications.
• Supports Olmsted County during emergency situations.
• Completes additional tasks as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of communication principles, practices, strategies, and techniques.
• Knowledge of public relations principles, practices, and techniques.
• Skill in verbal communication including presenting to a variety of audiences.
• Skill in the use of written, digital, and social media communications.
• Skill in website content design and content management systems, and other electronic and social media.
• Skill in the use of computers and technology including Microsoft Office Products, design applications, photo and video equipment, and editing tools.
• Skill in interpersonal communication and relationships.
• Skill in editing and proofreading.
• Ability to determine the most effective communication media, methods, or tools.
• Ability to work in a group, with collaboration and inclusivity.
• Ability to prioritize multiple requests and meet multiple deadlines.
• Ability to write or edit in a variety of writing styles and on a wide range of topics. 
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to effectively organize and prioritize work.
• Ability to be creative and decisive.

Persons with disabilities: the above is a general listing of job duties. Essential and non-essential functions may vary by individual position. Reasonable accommodations may be available for both essential and non-essential job duties.