Communications and Outreach Coordinator

The City of Ottawa Kansas is recruiting a Communications and Outreach Coordinator.The Communications and Outreach Coordinator plays a pivotal role in advancing the City of Ottawas communication and engagement strategies. Operating within the City Managers Office this position bridges internal and external messaging coordinates outreach initiatives and ensures consistent accessible communication across platforms. The role supports strategic priorities outlined in the citys communications framework and works in close collaboration with city departments to ensure clear timely and communitycentered communications.

Essential Job Functions
Strategic Communication & Coordination

• Assist in the development and refinement of integrated communication plans supporting city priorities services and community engagement goals.
• Coordinate with the City Manager and Multimedia Specialist to align messaging and publicfacing content across digital print and inperson channels.
• Support crisis communications including emergency communications planning and afterhours emergency response coordination.

• Plan and implement public forums events and outreach campaigns that foster community participation and trust.
• Serve as a liaison between city departments and the community to gather feedback and share updates on city projects and initiatives.
• Promote transparency and accessibility through inclusive engagement practices.

• Collaborate with Multimedia Specialist to draft edit and disseminate clear and engaging content including press releases social media updates newsletters talking points and event briefs.
• Maintain and update the citys communications calendar coordinating timing and messaging of campaigns and announcements.

• Prepare presentations talking points reports for the City Manager and department heads.
• Track public inquiries and engagement metrics offering regular reports to guide policy and strategy adjustments.
• Ensure adherence to city communication guidelines branding standards and legal requirements.

• Attend City Commission meetings workshops and community forums to remain informed and responsive.
• Serve as backup to other administrative or communications staff when required.
• Contribute to the annual evaluation and review of city communications programs.
• Perform additional jobrelated duties as assigned or as appropriate.

• Required: Bachelors degree in Communications Public Relations Marketing Journalism Public Administration or related field.
• Preferred: At least three years of experience in a communications or outreach role ideally within a public sector or municipal government environment.
• Experience with emergency communication systems (e.g. Everbridge) is a plus.

• Strong command of communication principles public information standards and branding practices.
• Skilled in social media management digital content creation and community outreach methods.
• Ability to manage multiple projects under pressure and adapt messaging for varied audiences.
• Demonstrated strategic thinking creativity and problemsolving skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a collaborative communityfocused mindset.
• Understanding of municipal operations and the role of local government communication.

• Primarily officebased with regular participation in community events and occasional afterhours responsibilities.
• Must be able to work under timesensitive conditions especially during crises or major events.

• Ability to sit stand and walk for extended periods.
• May be required to lift items up to 20 pounds.
• Must possess verbal acuity and listening skills for community interaction and live communication.
• Regular attendance and availability during key events or emergencies are essential.

Range: $60382.60 $84531.20

Date Opened: April 15 2025

Date Closed: May 15 2025

Hours:8:00 a.m. 5:00 p.m. Monday Friday.

Residency: Regular fulltime employees are required to establish and maintain residency within a driving distance of 35 miles of Ottawa City Hall within one year from hire.

EMail Confirmation: After your application has been received by the City of Ottawa you will receive confirmation by email. Please check your SPAM filter or JUNK Mail. If you have not received information within 48 hours of submitting your application please callto verify application has been received. For additional information contact Human Resources ator emailemailprotected.

Anyone with a disability who needs reasonable accommodation related to a selection process is requested to contact the Human Resources Department atat least two days prior to a scheduled test or interview.

The City of Ottawa is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.