Full-Time Communications Specialist
Job Description
COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST
EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER
CITY OF WORCESTER
The City of Worcester is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Communications Specialist (Principal Staff Assistant) for the Executive Office of the City Manager. Under the direction of the Chief of Staff, the Communications Specialist will be responsible for the preparation of internal and external communications, report development, and project management. Night and weekend availability may be required for meetings and/or events outside of normal business hours. This is an excellent opportunity for a candidate looking to work in a fast-paced, collaborative, professional setting where they will make significant impact to the City of Worcester.
Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.
ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS:
•Prepare internal and external communication, such as staff memos, City Council reports, talking points and speeches, press releases/media alerts, articles and editorials, social media and website copy.
•Review City Council reports for clarity of expression, accuracy, timeliness, completeness, and responsiveness to office and audience communications needs.
•Oversee the Agenda Management System relative to City Manager communications for City Council meetings, and liaise with Cabinet members on City Council agenda items, scripting and ideation.
•Work with communications team on event operations; consisting of press events, groundbreakings, ribbon cuttings, development and grant announcements, digital/social media, marketing initiatives and cultural activities.
•Assist with media/public relations, proactively pitching newsworthy and relevant topics to media, scheduling interviews with press for City Manager and other approved spokespeople.
•Collaborate with Cabinet and Department/Division heads on departmental news and events focused on storytelling and reinforcing the City’s mission/vision and enforcement of brand guidelines.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES
•Strong organizational, interpersonal, problem-solving skills
•Extensive professional writing skills and excellent verbal communication skills
•Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills
•Ability to communicate effectively (verbally, graphically, and in writing) with diverse audiences
•Ability to multi-task and prioritize in a fast-paced work environment; ability to meet strict deadlines
•Ability to work quickly under pressure
•Ability to use initiative and independent judgment within established guidelines and procedures
•Ability to maintain confidentiality
•Detail oriented with a high degree of accuracy.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
•Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Journalism, English, or related discipline;
•Five (5) years of related work experience; OR,
An equivalent combination of education & experience that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the required duties of the position will be considered in lieu of the above-mentioned requirements.
•Excellent communication skills
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
•Five (5) years of experience developing communications for diverse audiences
•Five (5) years of experience in external communications or related communications role, preferably in journalism and/or municipal setting
•Five (5) years of experience with media and press relations
SALARY RANGE: $65,578 – $85,906 annually, full-time, exempt, with an excellent benefits package
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: www.worcesterma.gov/employment or send resume and cover letter on or before FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2024, to: City of Worcester, 455 Main Street, Room 109, Worcester, MA 01608. Preference is given to Worcester residents. The City of Worcester is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. Direct inquiries to: City Hall, Human Resources, Room 109, 508-799-1030, HR@worcesterma.gov.138 total views, 0 today