Communications Specialist

Under the direction of the Communications Manager, this position assists in the City’s communications and public information efforts, including writing, editing, photography, video editing, and coordinating various publications; writing and producing content for multimedia outlets; and managing the City’s social media accounts. Some evening and weekend work is required.

• Writes, edits, and coordinates publications for the City

• Writes and produces content for multimedia outlets, including articles, press releases, advertisements, newsletters, brochures, and special events; pitches to regional media; reviews all items submitted to the media; negotiates pricing and timelines with printers and related publishing companies

• Acts as social media lead for the City’s many platforms; manages the City’s online domains used for outreach and promotional purposes, including updating materials and creating new domains; coordinates activities with information technology as needed

• Captures videos and photos for use on social media; creates content to support captured video and photos, edits TikToks and reels, records voice overs

• Creates graphic design elements for social media and print

• Assists in the implementation of a variety of marketing and public information tactics in support of City programs and initiatives

• Prepares presentations for the City Council, Mayor, and City Manager, which may include PowerPoint presentations, speeches, and the development of all related collateral

• Assists in the coordination of various special events, including groundbreakings, ribbon-cutting ceremonies, and City Council events; acts as project manager for selected events and programs

• Assists in the design, development, and production of printed materials; helps coordinate the City’s public participation program

• Assists in crisis communication during emergency events, including writing social media and emergency blog posts; plays a key role in the Emergency Operation Center and incident command as needed

• Plans and executive pre-production operations, including evaluating the type and placement of cameras, audio, and lighting units; performs post-production duties, including editing, dubbing, and duplicating tapes; maintains the City's video library, including tapes of all public meetings and other production

• Coordinates production and executes broadcast of City Council and Planning Commission meetings

• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Public Relations, Communications, English or related field

• Progressively responsible experience in the public relations and/or communications field is highly desirable

• Experience with various social media platforms is highly desirable

• Master’s Degree is highly desirable

• Possession of, or the ability to obtain, a valid Class C California driver license

• Any combination of education and experience that has provided the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary will be considered

• Possess a fundamental understanding of the principles, practices, and techniques of the public information, communications field, and public video/television production fields.

• Knowledge of principles and methods of writing and website management

• Strong understanding of social media platforms, best posting practices, analytic reporting, and use of tags and hashtags

• Strong understanding of analytics and search engine optimization techniques

• Strong presentation skills and the ability to create PowerPoint presentations and speeches

• Strong communication skills and the ability to communicate clearly and concisely both orally and in writing

• Strong attention to detail and the ability to produce work that is error-free, accurate, and thoughtful

• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build and maintain effective working relationships, both internally and externally

• Knowledge of methods and techniques for record keeping and report preparation and writing

• Basic knowledge of the principles and practices of graphic design, illustration, typography, photography, and commercial art.

• Ability to make sound decisions and demonstrate excellent judgment

• Proven track record for success in public relations field

• Ability to provide communications leadership to internal clients with positive energy, collaboration, and expertise

• Crisis communication and emergency management skills

• Strong work ethic and accountability for projects and outcomes; proactive, results-oriented approach

• Ability to work autonomously and within a collaborative team

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to effectively prioritize daily workload, coordinate multiple projects simultaneously, be flexible to changing priorities, and meet time-sensitive deadlines

• Ability to work with the public and discuss problems and complaints with a heavy emphasis on excellent customer service

• Ability to work occasional weekends and evenings

• Ability to lift, drag, and push files, paper, and documents weighing up to 25 pounds is required