Communications and Engagement Specialist - CSWM

Comox Valley Regional District; Courtenay; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Comox Valley Regional District is seeking a full-time Communications and Engagement Specialist to join the Solid Waste team. This role involves developing communication strategies, managing public engagement initiatives, and fostering relationships with First Nations communities. The ideal candidate will have significant experience in strategic communications and public engagement, along with strong interpersonal skills and a creative approach to problem-solving.

Qualifications

• Over four to five years of experience in developing and implementing communications programs.
• Certified public participation professional through IAP2 Canada.
• Proficient in managing various social media platforms.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute multi-channel communications and engagement plans.
• Manage CSWM social media accounts and develop comprehensive social media plans.
• Act as a liaison for media requests and coordinate timely media responses.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Public engagement

Strategic planning

Project management

Education

Diploma in communications, engagement, or public relations

Tools

Adobe Creative Suite

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

We are accepting applications for a full-time Communications and Engagement Specialist (Specialist) to join our Solid Waste team. The Specialist develops and implements communication and public engagement strategies in alignment with International Association of Public Participation (IAP2) standards and CVRD corporate guidelines. Under the direction and guidance of the Manager of Solid Waste Planning and Policy Development, the Specialist works on a variety of engagement, education and communication projects in support of the Comox Strathcona Waste Management (CSWM) service.The CSWM service manages over 65,000 tonnes of waste and recycled material annually and oversees a number of diversion and education programs for the CVRD and the Strathcona Regional District (SRD).

The primary responsibilities of the role are to :

• Develop and execute multi-channel communications and engagement plans to support CSWM initiatives efficiently and cost-effectively;
• Ensure CSWM branding, messaging and graphic standards are clear, consistent, and aligned with CSWM core services, strategic plan drivers, and priorities;
• Coordinate with partner municipalities, Strathcona Regional District, and First Nations communities for the dissemination of CSWM information;
• Provide communication tools that support existing programs to develop and maintain positive relationships with First Nations communities within the CSWM service area;
• Adhere to assigned project budgets and recommend financial impacts related to communications;
• Develop and oversee various communications materials, such as issues briefings, key messages, news releases, reports, videos, backgrounders, newsletters, brochures, displays and signage;
• Act as a liaison for media requests, coordinate timely media responses, and represent CSWM’s interest as an official spokesperson as required;
• Collaborate with communications contractors, education contractors and consultants;
• Manage and optimize the CSWM website and analyze user engagement data to propose enhancements to improve usability, accessibility, and content;
• Liaise with related agencies and suppliers / contractors to ensure timely dissemination of information to the public;
• Coordinate market research, market surveys, and gather customer feedback to inform strategic communication initiatives and program development;
• Lead the development and execution of targeted education campaigns aimed at driving behavioral change and fostering a culture of waste reduction and sustainability within the community;
• Manage CSWM social media accounts including YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook;
• Develop comprehensive social media plans tailored to each platform to promote CSWM initiatives, events, and campaigns, enhancing brand visibility;
• Provide expertise, guidance, and training to CSWM staff, consultants, and external partners.

Our ideal candidate is :

• Self-directed, motivated and creative;
• An exceptional communicator with superior writing, facilitation and interpersonal skills and the ability to foster effective, collaborative relationships;
• Skilled at developing and participating in the implementation of all facets of a strategic communications and engagement plan;
• Able to exercise sound judgement when working with sensitive information and providing advice to senior staff;
• Adept at disseminating information with accuracy, consistency, and thoroughness with strong attention to detail;
• Able to effectively manage multiple demands, logistics and budgets;
• Able to adapt to change,identify and develop the best tools and timing for providing effective information to diverse audiences;
• Educated in communications, engagement, public relations or another related discipline with a diploma requiring over two and up to three years of education following high school graduation;
• Skilled in public engagement and communications, with over four up to and including five years’ experience in developing and implementing communications programs and engagement initiatives for a diverse organization, preferably in local government;
• A certified public participation professional through IAP2 Canada;
• Proficient in managing various social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn and YouTube;
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, graphic design and production programs, including Adobe Creative Suite;
• International Association of Business Communicators or Canadian Public Relations Society membership, emergency management officer or crisis communication training is preferred.

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