Summary
The Communications Coordinator produces and coordinates the City’s internal and external communications and supports departments in communicating effectively with residents, businesses and the media. The position requires sound editorial judgment, accuracy under deadline and discretion in handling politically sensitive or high visibility matters. The Communications Coordinator works under the direction of the Director of Planning and Development, who assigns work and sets priorities.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, English, marketing or a related field. Three or more years of professional experience producing written and visual communications for a general audience. Demonstrated ability to produce clean, accurate copy on deadline. Working proficiency in graphic design and layout software and in website content management. Experience in a public sector, nonprofit or similarly accountable environment preferred. Any equivalent combination of accepted training and experience may be considered. Must possess a valid driver’s license.
Essential Functions
· Gather information and produce content for a variety of communication channels including digital, print, video and social media. Analyze performance data and adjust content and channel strategy based on results.
· Write, edit and proofread outbound communications for accuracy, clarity and consistency with City style, including verification of factual content originating from other departments.
· Prepare press releases, public announcements and related correspondence to communicate programs and items of public interest to the media and the public.
· Serve as communications lead on assigned projects, developing and implementing a communications plan for a specific topic, project, issue or event.
· Develop content for a range of audiences and formats including newsletters, annual and financial reports, speeches, editorial columns and presentations.
· Manage the City website. Prepare and coordinate updates and graphics, and review content submitted by departments for accessibility and style.
· Manage the City’s social media accounts, including content planning, publishing and performance reporting, consistent with the City’s social media policy. Provide guidance and support to departments operating their own social media accounts, including content standards, branding consistency and questions regarding public records and comment moderation.
· Monitor the City’s general information email account and inbound social media activity including direct messages, mentions and page reviews. Respond to routine inquiries and route substantive matters to the appropriate department.
· Design and produce layouts, graphics, photography and video suitable for print and digital publication.
· Support emergency and incident communications in coordination with the Mayor’s office, Police, Fire and Public Works departments, including outside normal business hours when required.
· Track media coverage and work with local print, radio, television and digital outlets using diplomacy, sound judgment and tact.
· Maintain communications records consistent with the City’s records retention schedule and support responses to public records requests.
· Plan and promote City sponsored events and support department event planning efforts.
· Attend City and community meetings as needed to stay informed of items of interest from staff and the community.
· Perform other duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills And Abilities
· Knowledge of: City policies and procedures*; City Charter and organizational structure*; the City’s social media policy and brand standards*; Ohio public records and open meetings law; records retention requirements applicable to electronic and social media content; digital accessibility standards for public sector websites and content; principles of crisis and emergency public information.
· Skill in: Clear and accurate writing for multiple audiences; copy editing and proofreading; graphic design, layout and photography; website content management; social media management and analytics; presentation and desktop publishing software; use of current content production tools, including AI assisted drafting and design tools with appropriate verification.
· Ability to: Work independently and manage a high volume of concurrent assignments with shifting deadlines; recognize politically or legally sensitive matters and escalate them appropriately; advise and influence department staff without direct authority over them; accept and apply editorial direction; maintain composure and professionalism when dealing with persistent or hostile public criticism; handle confidential material.
*indicates knowledge, skill or ability developed on the job
Equipment Operated
Personal computer and standard business office equipment including printer and copier; mobile phone and tablet; digital camera, lenses, tripod and related photography equipment; video and audio recording equipment.
Physical Demands and Work Conditions
Work is performed primarily in an office setting and requires extended periods of computer use, including sustained reading, writing and detailed visual review of text and graphics. Frequently required to sit, talk and hear, and to operate office equipment.
Regularly required to attend meetings and events at other City facilities and locations throughout the community, including evenings and weekends. Event coverage may require standing or walking for extended periods, setting up and transporting equipment and materials, and occasional exposure to outdoor weather conditions. May occasionally lift and move up to 25 pounds.
The position involves regular interaction with the public and the media, including on matters that are contested or politically sensitive, and periodic work under compressed deadlines.
To apply for this position, please visit: https://www.nridgeville.org/JobOpenings.aspx
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $59,107.00 - $73,426.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- On-site gym
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
Work Location: In person