Communications Specialist I or II (DOE)

Join one of the Top Places to Work as recognized by the Salt Lake Tribune! We offer a dynamic environment where you can build your career while contributing to a fantastic workplace culture. Were looking for a dedicated Communications Specialist I or II to contribute to the planning coordination and delivery of effective communications that support the Citys outreach and engagement this role youll have the opportunity to work with a supportive team in a culture that prioritizes skill development and growth.

We will hire either a level I or II candidate based on experience. The description below is for the level I position. Please note additional higher-level functions may exist for the level II position. This position may close early if a suitable candidate is found.

GENERAL PURPOSE

Support the Citys communication efforts by producing timely accurate materials that inform residents of City news initiatives and events.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Receives direction from the Communications Manager/PIO with potential for project-specific oversight from higher-level specialists.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Monitors and updates the Citys website including tracking statistics enhancing the visitor experience updating and optimizing content and ensuring accessibility compliance.
• Writes and edits professional content for public distribution across digital and print formats ensuring clarity consistency and alignment with City messaging.
• Supports the Citys communication plan by assisting with project completion and creating basic content. Focuses on executing predefined tasks under guidance.
• Assists in tracking engagement metrics for communication platforms to measure effectiveness.
• Supports the execution of marketing campaigns to help ensure residents are informed of City information events and initiatives. Assists with distributing content across communication channels.
• Helps monitor the Citys social media platforms and responds to routine or non-controversial inquiries. Assists in creating content or publishing pre-approved content. Stays updated on social media trends.
• Assists in editing City communication materials. Provides feedback on grammar style and clarity to ensure materials meet quality standards.
• Assists in researching media inquiries and gathers information for the Communications Manager/PIO. Does not respond directly to media inquiries including on-camera requests but supports by providing background information and logistics. Assists in drafting press releases under supervision and receives oversight for any materials prepared for media responses.
• Assists in the production of communication materials for City events and activities. Provides materials to the Communications Manager/PIO for review and dissemination.
• Attends City events when assigned to assist with photography videography and communications needs including monitoring social media and the website. Supports the Communications Manager and senior staff. Works outside regular hours as required by event schedules.
• Supports the Communications Manager/PIO and senior staff during emergencies and crisis situations by gathering information assisting with logistics and preparing communication materials. Does not serve as a primary PIO but may assist in monitoring communication channels and posting pre-approved updates. Works outside regular hours during emergencies.
• Attends Planning Commission meetings as scheduled or City Council meetings as needed. Responsible for audio/visual services including live-streaming meetings on the Citys website and social media. Works outside regular hours for meeting coverage and may be assigned to cover City Council meetings in the Communications Managers absence.
• Works with other City departments as assigned by the Communications Manager/PIO to assist with City information updates projects or other communications-related assignments.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Office environment with minimal changes to temperature and exposure to weather extremes and seasonal conditions during outdoor City events.
• Tasks require a variety of physical activities generally involving muscular strain such as walking standing stooping sitting kneeling and reaching. Talking hearing and seeing are essential to performing the required job functions.
• Common eye hand and finger dexterity must exist. Mental application utilizes memory for details verbal instructions emotional stability discriminating thinking and the ability to maintain composure in adverse situations.
• Must be able to sit for longer periods of time.
• Frequent local travel is required in the normal course of job performance.
• The City may make reasonable accommodations to the work environment and duties for those who qualify under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent.

Level I Experience:

• Two (2) years of experience in communications or a related field.

Level II Experience:

• Four (4) years of experience in communications or a related field.

OR

• An equivalent combination of education and experience

Additional Requirements:

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must possess a valid Utah Driver License.
• Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test background check and driving record check

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelors degree in communications from an accredited institution.
• Ability to speak and understand Spanish.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Proficient in writing and editing.
• Basic knowledge of HTML and CSS.
• Familiarity with office software including Microsoft Office 365 with the ability to learn and use additional job-specific software.
• Ability to assist with photography videography and graphic design as needed.
• Knowledge of social media platforms including Facebook Instagram YouTube and X (formerly Twitter)
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing in English.
• Basic graphic design skills preferably using the Adobe Creative Cloud Canva or similar tools.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to new tools and processes.

Civil Rights Coordinator:

Please feel free to reach out to our Civil Rights Coordinator at any time. HR Manager 801.727.0906.

Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug test background check and driving record check.

Required Experience:

Unclear Seniority