Position Title: Communications Specialist Department: Executive Location: City of Yelm ‐ City Hall Salary Range: $35,880 ‐ $42,840 (2020) Part‐time position working up to thirty (30) hours per week.
Job Summary
The Communications Specialist will oversee, create, and distribute public information through many different communication channels to keep the community informed of news, community events, and projects happening in the City. The position will collaborate with department managers and community leaders to promote strategic priorities, values, programs, and strengthen all partnerships within the City of Yelm. Under the direction and support of the City Administrator, the Communications Specialist builds upon and implements the City’s Communication Plan, bringing a high level of skill, passion and persistence for excellence to the position.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Plans, leads, organizes and completes external communications assigned to this position to ensure professionalism and consistency in sharing City information to the public in a timely and effective manner. Provides grant research and application support. Produces written and visual content for all forms of social media, the City’s website, newsletters and other communication products and mediums as assigned. Develops and implements a thoughtful, innovative and engaging communication plan that builds upon and highlights the City of Yelm’s culture, values, priorities, and programs. Prepares draft press releases and coordinates with involved departments to achieve final edited and approved product. Assists City departments in planning and executing communication and public relations efforts in order to achieve the established objectives. Coordinates the City’s interaction with news media, issuance of media releases, and respond to media inquiries. Supports department communication to promote priorities, programs and projects utilizing internal and external communication channels. Serves as Public Information Officer for the City and as part of emergency operations. Ensures content adheres to appropriate writing style, graphic and brand standards and policies. Ensures internal communication messages are consistent across all departments. Track and measure communication effectiveness. Creates and maintain image/graphics library and provide assistance on other communication projects as required. Streams City Council, Planning Commission, and other open public meetings to the City’s YouTube channel. Conducts special studies and prepares analyses or reports related to a variety of policies, procedures, cost effectiveness, service delivery, community engagement, and external communications as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Exceptional listener with the ability to integrate feedback well, have an eye for layout, storytelling through written content, visuals, photography and graphics. Possess strong writing, editing, and analytical skills to effectively communicate through verbal and written communication. Knowledge of public relations, public involvement and media relations strategies. Ability to write news articles, reports, and business correspondence. Ability to use and learn technology for performance of duties; including graphic design, presentation, and publication. Ability to represent the City at public events. Ability to manage time effectively and efficiently. Ability to communicate effectively and problem solve with team members. Ability to remain flexible to changes in assignments or situations. Ability to keep all information confidential. Ability to multi‐task with attention to accuracy, detail and time management. Ability to prepare professional correspondence, reports and presentations. Ability to learn, interpret, explain and apply knowledge of City organization, operations, programs, functions, special terminology, contracts, and agreements. Ability to plan, organize and prioritize work in order to meet schedules and timelines. Ability to work as contributing member of a team, work productively and cooperatively with other teams and external customers, and convey a positive image of the City and its services. Strong interviewing and story developing skills. Experience working closely with leadership teams on employee communications, strategies and implementation, including organization‐wide email, town hall meetings, manager speaking points and messaging.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree in related subject or five years of experience in communications, public relations, journalism or related field, or an equivalent combination of education, experience, and technical certifications that demonstrates the ability to perform the essential functions of the position. Proficiency with standard desktop software and operating systems, including social media and IT network operations.
Preferred Experience
Video production Experience with a DSLR camera Grant Writing Journalism Experience or training in municipal or governmental public relations
Tools and Equipment Used
Personal computer; copy machine; phone; DSLR camera; video editing software; vehicle to travel to user sites within the City.
Physical Requirements and Working Conditions
Work is performed mostly in office settings. Noise level in the work environment is usually moderately quiet. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand or sit; walk; talk or hear; use hands to touch, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus.
Special Requirements: Valid Washington State Driver’s License, or ability to obtain one.
Reports to: City Administrator or designee
Benefits PERS Retirement; Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance; Vacation, Holidays and Sick Leave. Benefits based on a 40‐hour workweek, benefits for part‐time are prorated.
How To Apply: Print and complete City of Yelm application available at www.ci.yelm.wa.us/human‐resources. Submit application along with a letter of interest and resume to: Karen Bennett, HR Specialist, 106 2nd St SE, Yelm WA 98597, or email to: karenb@yelmwa.gov
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