Communications Specialist

CITY OF MOLALLA, OREGON

COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: 

The Communications Specialist position is responsible for developing, coordinating and executing City communications, public information and digital content management. Work will include production and development of social and digital media content as well as hard copy content in a manner that promotes an informative and consistent image of the City that is in line with the goals, objectives and values of the City of Molalla.

This position requires sound judgment, strong organizational and writing skills, attention to detail, creative problem solving, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. Work involves considerable discretion, initiative, and professionalism while fostering positive relationships.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED: 

Under the direct supervision of the City Manager and may receive general direction from the City Recorder’s Office and/or the Assistant City Manager.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Serves as project lead for development, execution and analysis of communications for social and digital media platforms, including development of effective messaging, content strategy, and scheduling for social media communications and engagement.
• Monitors and engages with the community on various digital communication channels and inquiries from members of the public in an inviting, informative, authentic and professional manner to build trust, foster conversations, and ultimately improve our service to the community. 
• Understand social and digital media trends and best practices to communicate more effectively, elevate our online presence and grow our audiences on various communication platforms.
• Write compelling and informative copy for various social media postings, newsletters, websites and other internal and external communications, informational, and instructional pierces while meeting City organizational standards for writing, style and grammar.
• Communicates effectively to diverse audiences and seeks creative and up-to-date methods for reaching all potential populations affected by City programs.
• Exhibits leadership, initiative and creativity in execution of individual projects and building partnerships with team members, external contacts, and internal departments to support integrated public education and marketing communications efforts.
• Works collaboratively with team members, willingly takes on a variety of administrative tasks and projects, and provides support wherever needed to help the team and organization succeed.
• Collaborate with City staff to identify communications and engagement needs and gaps, develop and implement strategies to promote awareness and understanding of City services, policies, projects and issues.
• Monitors media and social media coverage for significant or emerging issues, using sound judgment to distinguish matters requiring attention from routine commentary, and keeps City leadership appropriately informed.
• Participates with the City Recorder in administering the records management program according to regulations and records retention procedures.
• Assists with video livestreaming for City Council meetings and other City events and activities, as needed.
• Reviews and edits materials prepared by others to ensure compliance with City branding, communication policies and writing style.
• Ensures all communications and web content meet accessibility requirements
• Prioritizing work and strong organizational skills to be able to manage multiple competing tasks.
• Effectively promotes and contributes to a safe work environment. Complies with all safety rules and performs work in a safe manner.
• Displays an ability to maintain regular and punctual attendance and consistent ability to meet deadlines.
• Maintains attire, grooming, and hygiene standards consistent with City policy and is prepared to represent the City professionally at public events and functions as needed.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, with strong presentation skills in personal and professional settings including spelling, grammar, and proofreading skills.
• Social media platforms and basic HTML language.
• Knowledge of basic layout, publishing, illustration, and photography applications, including Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop and Canva
• Current ADA compliance guidelines as they relate to digital accessibility.
• Proficient skill in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.
• Knowledge of office practices, procedures, and equipment.
• Ability to form and maintain effect relationships with coworkers and members of the public. Work as a contributing member of a team, working productively and cooperatively with other teams and external customers, and convey a positive image of the City and its services.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Journalism, Public Relations or related field; and
• Two years of experience in communications, marketing or public outreach with extensive written and verbal communication; or 
• Any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential function and responsibilities of the position.
• Preference may be given to experience operating in a public-sector environment.
• Ability to read and write Spanish is desired.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to pass background and security clearance standards including reference check and criminal history check.
• Possession of a valid Oregon driver's license at the time of hire and a driving record that meets the City’s driving standards.
• Position requires working some evenings and weekends; employee must be able to work a flexible schedule when necessary.