Communications & Engagement Specialist

About the role

Advance our public voice by building and executing a multi-platform strategy across social media, e-newsletters, annual reports, and our website to promote Ohio’s infrastructure and Clean Ohio programs.

Responsibilities

• Create engaging multimedia content that turns technical funding data into compelling visual stories using video, photography, graphic design, and feature articles highlighting local community projects.
• Lead public and media outreach by drafting press releases, producing training materials (e.g., YouTube, LinkedIn), and assisting leadership with media and public inquiries.
• Connect with stakeholders by attending district workshops, site visits, and statewide events to represent OPWC and collaborate with statewide Public Information Officer networks.
• Support core operations by maintaining public GIS mapping data, pulling programmatic reports, and providing backup support for internal financial administration.

Requirements

• Outstanding Writing & Editing: Proven ability to convey highly technical public infrastructure or environmental policy information clearly, accurately, and compellingly.
• Multi-Platform Digital Production: Demonstrated experience managing social media, email marketing platforms, website content management systems (CMS), and digital communication tools.
• Creative Technical Skills: Proficient in graphic design, digital layout, photography, and video/audio production.
• Strategic Editorial Judgment: Ability to proactively select the right message, timing, visual channel, and platform for maximum public engagement and impact.
• Collaboration & Adaptability: Self-directed and highly organized, with the diplomatic, interpersonal skills needed to work across disciplines with diverse local government stakeholders.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.

Qualifications

• Completion of an undergraduate core program in journalism, communications, public relations, public administration, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience in professional communications, multi-media content development, public relations, or public sector outreach (or an equivalent combination of education and experience).

Preferred

• Familiarity with local or state government processes, public sector funding mechanisms, regional planning, or economic development.

Work Environment & Travel

• Occasional travel throughout Ohio's districts is required to attend district public works integrating committee meetings, local subdivision workshops, statewide conferences, and outdoor project site visits.

Compensation

$30.22 - $37.75

Schedule

Full-time

Organization

The Ohio Public Works Commission (OPWC) was created in 1987 to administer the State Capital Improvement Program (SCIP) and the Local Transportation Improvement Program (LTIP). In 2000, OPWC became responsible for the Clean Ohio Conservation Green Space Program. The legislatively appointed twelve-member Commission provides oversight and adopts bylaws governing OPWC’s business. Staff work with district committees to ensure fair and objective administration of programs, maintaining ongoing contact with local communities and providing technical assistance through each project's completion.

What We Do

The Ohio Public Works Commission (OPWC) improves lives by funding infrastructure and greenspace projects that are important to communities. Projects range from improved roads and bridges to safe drinking water and greenspace conservation. OPWC’s programs support quality of life, ensure health and safety, and drive the economy by making local government projects more affordable, creating jobs, conserving properties, and replacing aging infrastructure. OPWC’s mission is to deliver statutory programs with efficiency, high customer satisfaction, transparency, and accountability to Ohio’s taxpayers.