Communications Program Manager

It’s a great time to join the City of Boulder! Hiring Range: $67,600.00 - $82,576.00 Job Description Summary: ENGAGEMENT & SPECIAL PROJECTS Under general supervision, to work collaboratively with departmental leadership and colleagues to create and maintain an evolving communication plan that supports Engagement and Special Projects to include the Library through the end of 2022; to implement this plan through the creation and dissemination of timely, accurate and engaging external-facing information, utilizing existing citywide and department-specific communication platforms; to partner with social media, website and outreach colleagues to ensure that the cadence and tone of information they release aligns with the communication plan and departmental objectives; to provide media relations and strategic messaging oversight on special projects and to Engagement leadership; and assist with emergency and other citywide communication initiatives as assigned. Job Description: SPECIAL PROJECTS & ENGAGEMENT ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES Performs communication oversight and duties as follows: Serves as a member of the city’s Communication & Engagement Department, assisting in developing overall communication strategies to support the mission and work of the engagement, as well special citywide projects, as assigned. Serves as a key resource to staff within Engagement, assisting with all communication strategy needs. Collaborates with Engagement colleagues that support Neighborhood Services and our Volunteer Cooperative and key staff supporting special projects to develop and implement communication plans that takes into account project objectives, key programming goals and the needs/expectations of the target audience(s). Manages and integrates department messaging, as assigned, across all city communication platforms (web, social media, print, TV, e-newsletters) in coordination with Library colleagues who have responsibilities for department-specific web and social media platforms. Prioritizes communication tasks that align with the department’s master plan as well as citywide goals and priorities. Serves as a spokesperson for special projects, as needed, and coordinates media inquiries related to services and programs. Maintains an on-call status for response to city and department emergencies, as needed. Initiates and develops external public information for Engagement and special projects as assigned: Understands the program mission and service to actively communicate them to the community. Is aware of sensitive or political issues and provides public relations counsel to project leadership. Keeps informed about and implements innovative and useful methods of communication with a focus on trends in social media and external public relations. Develops and leverages a clear understanding of the city’s Racial Equity Plan to ensure that communication efforts are inclusive, effective and supportive of this area of work. Gathers information using surveys, focus groups, online tools and other processes, as appropriate. Writes news releases, social media posts, newsletters, brochures, flyers, public service announcements, scripts, talking points and other communications materials. Establishes good working relationships with members of the media to facilitate timely, accurate and positive coverage. Answers information requests from the news media and public as needed. Collaboratively creates and updates web content for the library and other projects as assigned. Creates and integrates projects as a member of a team: Provides editorial support to ensure written materials reflect the standards of the city. Coordinates paid advertisement placement and purchasing as assigned. Coordinates and implements department(s) news releases and media briefings. Based on direction from the Communication Manager/Director, prioritizes promotion activities to support city and department goals. Supports the Communication and Engagement Department at the Emergency Operations Center, shelters, on scene or as assigned during city emergencies and/or disasters. Other: Performs related duties as required to meet the needs of the city. Takes proper safety precautions, anticipates unsafe circumstances, and acts accordingly to prevent accidents. Responsible for the safety of self, others, materials and equipment and follows all safety regulations, policies and procedures. Reports all accidents and damage to city property. Responsible for knowing and complying with all city and department policies; participating in professional trainings and development; and adhering to attendance and workplace attire policies. May have lead responsibilities for a project or team. Contribute citywide news to Channel 8 or co-host Channel 8 shows. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Ability to respond to requests for information in a timely and customer service-oriented manner and to use discretion with confidential information. Demonstrated ability to resolve issues using own initiative, under minimal supervision, time pressure, and in difficult situations. Demonstrated ability to manage projects. Excellent skill in verbal and written communication and presentation skills with experience in print, web and social media. Ability to work professionally with senior management and staff on external communications. Ability to demonstrate flexibility and excellent organizational skills, including the ability to meet deadlines, respond to requests for information in a timely manner and manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Valid driver’s license and independent transportation to attend all essential functions. Have and maintain acceptable background information, including criminal conviction history and credit history, and motor vehicle record. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Experience working in a public-sector setting. Demonstrated ability to strategically anticipate potential outcomes and consequences related to communication and political issues. Ability to provide objective feedback and counsel on communication strategy. Ability to relate to all levels of city staff to build effective relationships. Ability to demonstrate integrity and trust in dealing with confidential information. Ability to deal with ambiguity and effectively cope with change in work plans and priorities. REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or related field. At least three years of experience in public information, journalism, or communications, or equivalent combination of education and/or experience. WORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS Physical and Mental Effort Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing or other communication capabilities that permits the employee to communicate effectively on the telephone and in person. Sufficient vision or other powers of observation that permits the employee to review, evaluate and prepare a variety of written documents and materials. Sufficient manual dexterity that permits the employee to operate computer equipment and other office equipment. Sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes, which permits the employee to work in an office setting. Work may include extended periods of time viewing a computer video monitor and/ or operating a keyboard. Ability to work under stress from demanding deadlines, public contact, and changing priorities and conditions. Work Environment Works primarily in a clean, comfortable environment. Works in a setting subject to continuous interruptions and background noises. Machines and equipment used include but are not limited to the following: standard office equipment including personal computers, telephones, calculators and copy/fax machines. Additional Job Description: Last Updated: October 2023 The City of Boulder is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected statute. For individuals with disabilities who would like to request an accommodation, please send a request to HR@bouldercolorado.gov. The City of Boulder is a great place to live, work, grow and play. With over 300 miles of dedicated bikeways and more than 150 miles of hiking trails, Boulder values active lifestyles and access to nature. Forty-five thousand acres of land provide open space for parks and a green belt around the city. With world class restaurants and art and music venues, The City of Boulder values diverse culture. Respect is one of our five City Values (including Customer Service, Collaboration, Integrity and Innovation) and we are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion. We celebrate and support our differences across all spectrums, including but not limited to ethnicity, gender, age, disability and sexuality. Through our focus on Racial Equity, our employee benefits, and the many programs resources we offer our staff, we continually strive to weave respect for one another into the fabric of our organization. Add your voice and talents to the City of Boulder and help us grow in service excellence for an inspired future.

Salary : $67,600 - $82,576