Outreach and Communications Coordinator Full-time Job

JOB SUMMARY

Public Outreach and Communications provides strategic communications and outreach support to the Public Works Services department through a centralized unit that consolidates and streamlines the delivery of specialized communications, outreach and education programs, initiatives, activities and services, and provides support for activities in the public realm.  

You are responsible for developing, implementing and evaluating outreach and communications plans, tactics and materials for assigned department service areas (i.e. Parks, Forestry Services, Roads and Parking Services, Solid Waste Services and Traffic Services). You are also responsible for providing outreach and communications advice, and supporting strategic communications, media relations and issues management for department service areas.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Completion of 4 year degree in Communications, Public Administration, Public Relations or related field.

Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience working in a large organization, with demonstrated experience in areas relating to public relations, communication, community involvement, or promotional activities.

KNOWLEDGE

• General knowledge of the Corporation, departmental and branch business requirements, policies and organizational structure
• Legislation, policies, regulations, guidelines, procedures, issues and trends relevant to the operational area
• Current trends and developments in communications techniques, practices, electronic media, and public/media relations, social media
• Effective outreach and communications tactics and techniques using various channels
• Service area operations and communications requirements
• Structure and processes of municipal government, including inter-governmental stakeholders
• Public engagement and consultation processes and best practices
• Principles and techniques of project management 
• Customer service delivery and skills
• Protocols for developing submissions, briefings, reports
• Knowledge of computer applications-Microsoft Office suite, including programs used to administer the City’s external and internal websites 
• Knowledge of applicable health and safety legislation, including the rights and duties of workers

COMPETENCIES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Able to work independently, with minimum support/direction, and cooperatively and collaboratively with all staff as part of a team  
• Possess organizational skills and flexibility to plan, initiate, organize and prioritize own work, and to balance multiple demands, conflicting priorities, and pressures and deadlines
• Able to foster good working relationships with public and elected representatives and respond effectively to questions and information requests on city programs in order to achieve Branch/Departmental objectives
• Able to plan, lead, coordinate, implement and manage projects to completion
• Able to conduct research, compile/analyze issues/data, make judgments on the interpretation of issues/data, and formulate recommendations
• Possess strong existing computer skills, with ability to use Microsoft Office suite applications 
• Possess strong verbal and written communication and presentation skills 
• Able to prepare reports, information packages, promotional materials, presentation materials, and correspondence in an organized, clear and concise manner
• Think and plan strategically
• Work effectively under pressure to meet tight timelines
• Ability to prepare comprehensive communications strategies
• Ability to influence and inform stakeholders regarding the application of communications tactics and techniques
• Effective verbal communications, writing and editing skills
• Strong research and analysis skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Ability to be creative and think logically
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to plan, lead and complete assigned projects and initiatives within timelines
• Time management skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment
• Ability to work directly with City staff, elected officials and senior management
• Ability to identify issues in the public domain
• Able to concentrate/focus on accuracy and detail
• Goal and results oriented
• Able to demonstrate sound judgement  
• Flexible and adaptable to deal with shifting priorities 
• Able to display tact and diplomacy 
• Innovative and creative 
• Positive attitude
• Self-motivated
• Organized and dependable
• Works effectively in high pressure situations