Communications Specialist

About the role

The Communications Specialist leads and coordinates the City of Janesville's communications and public information program. Key responsibilities include developing and executing a public communication strategy, managing the City's website and social media presence, serving as a liaison with the media, and coordinating special events.

Responsibilities

• Develops, executes, and refines a public communication strategy aligned with the City’s mission and strategic objectives.
• Manages the development and maintenance of the City’s website, Intranet, and other information platforms.
• Monitors and responds to citizen questions and concerns on social media.
• Serves as a liaison between the City and news media, developing press releases and responding to media inquiries.
• Coordinates the writing and development of surveys, newsletters, informational brochures, videos, and presentations.
• Collects and utilizes community feedback to improve communication strategies.
• Serves as the City’s Public Information Officer, responding to emergencies and coordinating crisis communications.
• Plans and assists with the execution of special events.
• Prepares agendas, policy statements, reports, and other materials for City Council meetings.
• Maintains open lines of communication with community organizations and responds promptly to public information requests.
• Adheres to safety policies and practices, reporting unsafe conditions and accidents.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in public administration, communication, journalism, marketing, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of two (2) years’ municipal experience or communications/marketing experience.
• A valid state-issued driver’s license at the time of hire.

Qualifications

• A master’s degree is preferred.
• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft applications, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Publisher, and Outlook.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Acrobat and basic content creation software.

Skills

• Organizational and time management skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Collaboration and interpersonal skills.
• Skill in utilizing social media platforms and analytics tools.
• Strong ethics and decision-making skills.
• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft applications.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Acrobat and basic content creation software.

Abilities

• Good ability to organize, plan, and research projects.
• Considerable ability to tactfully enforce City policies and embrace change.
• Effectively handle negative comments and public feedback.
• Excellent analytical, judgment, and problem-solving skills.
• Good ability to adapt to the changing needs of the organization.
• Ability to complete NIMS training as required.
• Ability to comply with safety policies and practices.
• Ability to learn and apply new technology.