Communications Specialist

The City of Morgantown is looking for a dynamic person to fill its Communication Specialist position. This entry-level position works under the direct supervision of the Communications Manager. The Communications Specialist assists with the public relations and communication areas of the City, while maintaining and generating positive media coverage for programs and initiatives. The Communications Specialist assists in the development of promotional and educational materials, including but not limited to social media posts, press releases, brochures, and public service announcements. Critical to this role is building and sustaining excellent relationships with the media, public officials and local, state and federal agencies. Individual performs related work and other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism or a related field.

• Pre-employment law enforcement background investigation.
• 0-2 years full-time or equivalent part-time paid experience in the field of public relations, journalism, advertising, marketing or a related field.
• Strong working knowledge of AP style.
• Strong knowledge of social media platforms.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Excellent knowledge of English grammar use, research techniques, and composition.
• Basic knowledge of federal, state and local government relationships as they relate to the mission and operations of the City.
• Basic knowledge of elected official roles and responsibilities.
• Basic knowledge of local, state and federal legislative process.
• Basic knowledge of the organization and programs of the City of Morgantown.
• Basic knowledge of design, editing and printing techniques.
• Basic knowledge of content management systems such as Wordpress
• Ability to proofread work for accuracy, spelling and grammar.
• Ability to conduct formal research, analyze data and make sound, logical conclusions.
• Ability to communicate thoughts, both written and verbally, in a simple and clear way.
• Ability to write in different formats for various audiences.
• Ability to organize and present a variety of informational and promotional materials in a clear, concise and appealing format.
• Ability to prioritize and handle multiple “priority” projects simultaneously and meet established deadlines.
• Ability to work effectively with local media.
• Ability to host and successfully participate in conferences and meetings. Ability to gather information through research, observation and/or interview.
• Ability to work effectively with elected officials and staff in complex and sometimes political situations.
• Ability to create and manage content on the City’s webpage .
• Ability to create and manage content on the City’s social media platforms.
• Ability to work independently and as a team member exercising good judgment and initiative.
• Ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures.
• Ability to effectively photograph and take video of individuals, places and events.
• Ability to understand and work with the Morgantown City Code and WV State Code.
• Ability to assist in the coordination of public information and media relations during emergency management situations.
• Ability to operate a professional digital camera and camcorder.
• Ability to operate a personal computer.
• Ability to operate office equipment such as: fax, copier, scanner, etc.
• Skilled in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Basic knowledge of Adobe Design and video editing software. Specifically, Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator and Premier.
• ESSENTIAL DUTIES
• Assists in the development and implementation of public affairs, marketing, branding and other integrated communication plans, campaigns and procedures using communication strategies and theories;
• Prepare or assists with the design and preparation of graphics compositions and layouts;
• Designs, edits and prepares detailed reports, manuals, updates and other materials as assigned.
• Develops and produces video information programs about city services and public service announcements;
• Interface daily with city administration to identify and understand issues which impact the City.
• Assists in the operation and maintenance of the government cable access channel to include live cable broadcasts, replays, electronic information messages, and troubleshooting video equipment problems;
• Assists in the coordination of media relations for the City of Morgantown, writes new releases and articles;
• Assists in the coordination of public information and media relations during emergency management situations;
• Assists in publicizing high profile special events and projects;
• Posts public information and program information on the City's webpage;
• Creates and posts content for the City’s social media platforms;
• Evaluates communication with internal and external audiences for efficiency and effectiveness.
• Performs related work as required.

[

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $15.76 per hour

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Work Location:

• One location

Company's website:

• www.morgantownwv.gov

Company's Facebook page:

• https://www.facebook.com/MorgantownCity/

Benefit Conditions:

• Only full-time employees eligible

Work Remotely:

• No

COVID-19 Precaution(s):

• Remote interview process
• Personal protective equipment provided or required
• Social distancing guidelines in place
• Virtual meetings
• Sanitizing, disinfecting, or cleaning procedures in place