COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

The City of Worcester seeks qualified applicants for the position of Communications Specialist (Staff Assistant II) for the Communications Division within the Office of the City Manager. Under the direction of the Director of Communications and Marketing, the position will assist the City Manager's Office with internal and external communications. The Communications Specialist will play a key role in effectively coordinating communications to the City Council and supporting the municipality's messaging and storytelling. This individual will be responsible for the preparation and tracking of internal and external communications, report development, and project management. 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:

• Oversee the Agenda Management System relative to City Manager communications for City Council meetings, liaise with Cabinet members on City Council agenda items, scripting and ideation.
• Review City Council reports for clarity of expression, accuracy, timeliness, completeness, and responsiveness to office and audience communications needs.
• Compile and distribute biweekly internal newsletter to share important messages from the City Manager, employee features, and departmental news and events.
• Track and report social media metrics across platforms and ensure timely responsiveness to constituent questions.
• Develop internal database to track earned media features and mentions and support Media & Public Relations Administrator with press clippings.
• Support communications team on event operations, press release development, graphic design, social media posting, and photography/videography projects.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Strong organizational, interpersonal, problem-solving skills
• Ability to create engaging content that aligns with strategic goals, voice, and brand look and feel
• Ability to communicate effectively (verbally, graphically, and in writing) with diverse audiences
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Highly attentive to detail
• Ability to thrive in fast-paced, collaborative environment; flexible approach to working with multiple stakeholders
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to meet strict deadlines
• Ability to work quickly under pressure
• Ability to use initiative and independent judgment within established guidelines and procedure

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's degree in Business or Public Administration, Political Science, Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, English, or related field.
• One to two (1-2) years of relevant communications experience, including internships; OR




• Associate's degree and four (4) years of training and experience which provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job will be considered in lieu of the above-mentioned requirements.




• Proficient with computers, including Adobe Suites, Microsoft Office Suite.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Two (2) years of experience with photography and or video production.
• Two (2) years of experience developing communications for diverse audiences.
• Two (2) years of experience with copywriting, proofreading, and editing.
• Two (2) years of experience with social media.

SALARY RANGE: $28.78 - $34.89 hourly, full-time, with an excellent benefits package.

To apply, please visit: www.worcesterma.gov/employment or send resume and cover letter to: City of Worcester, 455 Main Street, Room 109, Worcester, MA 01608. OPEN UNTIL FILLED, applications received prior to or on FRIDAY, JANUARY 3, 2025, will receive preference. 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, Hiring@worcesterma.gov.