HomeMy WebLinkAboutCommunications CoordinatorUpdated: March 2024
CITY OF IOWA CITY – JOB DESCRIPTION
Posi�on Title: Communica�ons Coordinator
Department: City Manager’s Office
Division: Communica�ons
Supervisor: City Manager
FLSA: Exempt
Civil Service: No
Pay Grade: 30
Job Number: 3020
Job Summary
Develops and coordinates the execu�on of a communica�on strategy for the City. Works with
City Departments to create effec�ve and well-coordinated messages that promote awareness of
City services, projects, policies and events. Con�nually evaluates City communica�ons and
ac�vely pursues mechanisms and technologies that enhance such efforts.
Essen�al Job Du�es and Responsibili�es
The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive
or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.
• Coordinates City communica�ons, outreach, and engagement efforts including diversity,
equity, and inclusion; develops public messaging in coopera�on with other City
Departments; determines appropriate communica�ons means to disseminate such
messages.
• Manages all external communica�on including City Channel 4, digital content, social
media, design and messaging, electronic communica�ons including the City website;
and internal communica�on including email, employee newsleter, intranet content.
• Develops strategic marke�ng plans, ensures ADA compliance and provides DEI guidance
for inclusive messaging.
• Monitors and schedules work flow; monitors completed work for accuracy and quality.
• Maintains editorial and graphic standards for public informa�on, assuring effec�veness,
clarity and high quality.
• Creates communica�on pieces such as website content, press releases, brochures,
adver�sements and newsleters.
• Supports City staff with communica�on needs including developing talking points,
speeches and presenta�ons; coordinates media and customer service training for select
City staff.
• Develops and implements citywide resident surveys and polls.
• Ensures excellent customer service through front desk staffing and response to general
resident inquiries.
• Develops and maintains media rela�ons and serves as a contact for general media
inquiries.
• Arranges press conferences and other special events as directed.
Updated: March 2024
• Assesses internal communica�on needs; facilitates an environment that encourages
interdepartmental coopera�on.
• Coordinates with outside vendors and service providers, as needed.
• Conducts self in a manner which promotes and supports diversity and inclusivity in the
workplace and community.
• Performs all other related du�es as assigned.
Minimum Education, Experience, Certification/Licensure, Other
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited educa�onal ins�tu�on and three to five years of
related experience; or seven to nine years of related experience and/or equivalent
combina�on of educa�on and experience. Degree in Communica�on, Marke�ng, or
related field.
• Must pass criminal background check.
Preferred Education, Experience, Certification/Licensure, Other
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited educa�onal ins�tu�on and six years of related
experience; or ten years of related experience and/or equivalent combina�on of
educa�on and experience. Experience in a diverse organiza�on and municipal
government opera�ons. Supervisory experience.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abili�es
• Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions,
propor�ons, percentages.
• Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instruc�ons and deal with several
abstract and concrete variables.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret computer and so�ware materials and manuals,
common trade journals, financial reports, and legal documents.
• Ability to reliably and predictably carry out du�es.
• Ability to respond effec�vely to the most sensi�ve inquiries or complaints.
• Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from customers, regulatory
agencies, or members of the business community.
• Ability to write communica�ons materials using original or innova�ve techniques or
style.
• Ability to write speeches and ar�cles for publica�on that conform to prescribed style
and format.
• Knowledge of principles of office management and computer hardware, so�ware, and
network opera�on.
• Skill in graphic design and web content management.
• Skill in oral and writen communica�on, public speaking, nego�a�on, and personnel
management.
• Skill in using computers and applicable so�ware applica�ons (Microso� Office – Word,
Excel, Outlook, Powerpoint), Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and Acrobat is a plus.
Updated: March 2024
Supervision
Assists with the overall direction, coordination, and evaluation of a program function or unit for
the department. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's
policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include supervising direct reports including
interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; writing
and delivering performance reviews; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing
complaints and resolving problems; and terminating employees.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an
employee to successfully perform the essential duties and responsibilities of this job.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform
the essential duties and responsibilities.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The
employee is frequently required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands
and arms. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk and stoop, kneel, crouch, or
crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision
abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception
and ability to adjust focus.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee
encounters while performing the essential duties and responsibilities of this job. Reasonable
accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential
duties and responsibilities.
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Du�es are generally performed in
an office se�ng with a controlled environment. The job requires si�ng for extended periods of
�me and the work may expose the employee to unpleasant social situa�ons and significant
work pace pressure.
Iowa City is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities
Act as Amended, the City will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with
disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential
accommodations with the employer.
Reviewed/Approved by: Geoff Fruin, City Manager (4/2024)
Updated: March 2024
I have read and understand the duties and requirements of this job description, and I
agree that I can perform the duties of this position with or without reasonable
accommodation.
Employee Date
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