Civic Engagement Specialist

Summary

Reporting to the Community Specialists Manager and as a member of the Community Specialists Team, the Civic Engagement Specialist is responsible for supporting residents, especially marginalized groups, to be active participants in civic life to strengthen democracy and build a culture of informed, engaged, and empowered residents. Acts as a consultant and resource internally and externally so that community needs and skill development are supported.

Other Things You Should Know

This is a full-time exempt position. Starting salary is $49,137 plus excellent benefits. Position open until filled.

Job Duties

Functions as Library’s expert and leader in civic engagement initiatives.

Plans, implements, evaluates, and collaborates on civic engagement, legal, and government programming for the Library system.

Coordinates voter registration and notary service at all library locations.

Seeks out, forms, and maintains relationships with the civic engagement community.

Teaches staff and patrons about civic engagement, legal, and government resources and programs.

Actively plans and participates in community meetings, tabling events, fairs and other events relating to civic engagement.

Consults with and provides recommendations to Collection Development, especially pertaining to government resources.

Curates and maintains content for the Digital Branch and social media in area of expertise.

May lead, develop, and mentor volunteers as needed.

Develops and maintains technology skills required to provide service and perform programming duties.

Job Requirements

Ability to create and implement meaningful and engaging informational presentations to groups and individuals.

Ability to create effective learning and educational materials in multiple formats, including print, digital, PowerPoint, and other formats.

Ability to deal in an effective and courteous manner with members of the public and possess the skills to interact with both children and adults in a professional manner. Ability to exhibit patience, cultural sensitivity, and establish boundaries and mutual respect with patrons.

Ability to maintain effective cooperative and positive working relationships with library staff, professionals in other organizations, community groups and community members. As needed, provide consultation and offer advice.

Ability to plan, analyze, and carry out projects.

Ability to represent the Library professionally.

Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of professional library work, particularly reference services, collection development, and circulating resources, with a knowledge of issues and trends in these areas.

Demonstrated ability to effectively organize and prioritize personal work routines and responsibilities, and to work independently with minimal supervision. Ability to work accurately with close attention to detail in reading, writing, spelling, and basic math functions.

Ability to speak and understand English is required, additional consideration may be given to individuals that are proficient in any non-English languages spoken in Jackson County, MO including Spanish, Vietnamese, French, Arabic, and Swahili.

Minimum requirements include Master’s in Library & Information science, Political Science, Education, Community Engagement, Legal Studies, or related field. This requirement may also by met by an equivalent combination of education, work experience, and life experience.

Preferred Qualifications include established relationships with civic engagement community, established proficiency in use of library resources, and strong facilitation and moderation skills.

How to Apply

Please apply for this position through our web application system at https://www.kclibrary.org/jobs. Kansas City Public Library is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.