Senior Communications Advisor

County of Grande Prairie No. 1; Clairmont; On-site; CAD 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government organization in Clairmont, Alberta, seeks a Senior Communications Advisor to develop and implement strategic communications plans. The ideal candidate will possess a degree in communications and have 3-5 years of experience, especially in a municipal environment. This role involves media relations, advising leadership during crises, and managing multiple projects. The organization offers a competitive salary and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Benefits and LAPP pension

Support for professional development

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in communications, preferably in a municipal setting.
• Strong knowledge of Canadian Press Style.
• Ability to manage multiple projects effectively.

Responsibilities

• Develop and evaluate strategic communications and public consultation plans.
• Advise Senior Leadership and County Council on communications issues.
• Manage media relations and coach staff as spokespeople.

Skills

Advanced writing

Project management

Public relations

Education

Post-secondary degree in communications or related field

Job description

Job Description

Join our growing team in Grande Prairie, Alberta!

Creative, strategic, and committed to excellence? If that's you, we want your resume!

As a Senior Communications Advisor with the County of Grande Prairie, you'll work with employees, community members, stakeholders, and elected officials to build and implement strategic communications plans using a variety of creative tools. As a member of our team of eight communications and marketing professionals, you will have the chance to specialize in specific service areas. This means you can focus your expertise and make a significant impact in areas that align with your interests and strengths, including community engagement, corporate messaging, storytelling, and more.

You will also play a key role in keeping our communities informed when it matters most – during emergencies. As part of our paid weekly on-call rotation, you’ll help ensure timely, accurate communication about incidents that may pose a risk to the public. You’ll receive comprehensive training on emergency notification platforms to support your success in fast-paced situations. When large-scale events require a regional response, you’ll collaborate with our neighbouring municipalities, stepping into the rotating role of Information Officer or Information Officer Assistant under the Grande Prairie Regional Emergency Partnership (GPREP), within the Incident Command System structure.

About the job :

The County's Communications & Marketing department works to protect and enhance the municipality's reputation, while advancing its strategic and operational policies, programs, services, and initiatives. Our team coordinates and provides corporate communication services for the organization, including internal and external communications planning and implementation, media and stakeholder relations, issues management and crisis communication, marketing, brand management, and digital media. The department also provides communications support to County Council as part of the Corporate Services service area.

Under the direction of the Director of Communications and Marketing, this Senior Communications Advisor role provides strategic advice on complex and longer-term communications issues, projects, and initiatives. In other words, no two days are ever the same.

What You'll Get to Do :

• Develop, implement, and evaluate integrated strategic communications and public consultation plans that effectively support the corporate business plan.
• Anticipate and manage change, while generating an understanding of politically and organizationally sensitive initiatives.
• Produce tactics that effectively execute communications and public consultation plans.
• Develop messaging on complex corporate issues, including sensitive and confidential matters.
• Establish and analyze metrics using a variety of analytical tools to measure the effectiveness of the plans / products.
• Advise and make strategic communications recommendations to Senior Leadership and County Council when the organization is faced with real and potential issues.
• Participate in an integrated approach to crisis communications.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with the media through proactive and reactive media relations.
• Coach staff and Council as spokespeople to communicate key messages and anticipate and respond to public concerns.
• Provide strategic consultation and advice to internal and external stakeholders.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Provide expertise and advice to fellow Communications and Marketing staff on a daily basis.
• Build respectful and productive relationships inside and outside the organization.
• Display accountability by working within approved budgets, identifying issues and solutions, understanding client needs, and reporting on outcomes.

Why Join Us?

Team Expansion and Growth: Expansion of the Communications and Marketing department brings new opportunities. Being one of four Senior Advisors, you'll have the opportunity to move into a business partnership model with specific specialization areas. You'll collaborate with other Senior Communications team members to make an impact.

Specialization Opportunities: As a Senior Communications Advisor, you can focus your expertise in specific service areas, making a significant impact aligned with your interests and strengths.

35-Hour Work Week with Overtime Benefits: We value your time. Enjoy a 35-hour work week, with additional hours compensated at 1.5x rate.

Middle of Everywhere: Located in northwestern Alberta, the County of Grande Prairie offers a blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities, with affordable housing, short commutes, and diverse cultural and recreational opportunities.

Qualifications

You have a post-secondary degree or diploma in communications, public relations, or a related field, with 3-5 years of experience. Experience in a municipal government environment and membership with IABC or CPRS are assets. You should have a proven record of developing effective communications plans, knowledge of Canadian Press Style, advanced writing and editing skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects. Certifications in Information Officer and Incident Command System, and training in public engagement, are also assets.

Additional Information

What We Offer : Competitive compensation, benefits, LAPP pension, vacation, and support for professional development.

Work Schedule : 35-hour work week with paid or banked overtime.

Closing Date : August 8, 2025

Pay Rate : $51.34 to $60.40 per hour

Salary is commensurate with experience. We promote a scent-free environment and are committed to fair, inclusive hiring practices. For accommodations, contact [e-mail]. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. This posting may be used for future vacancies or to fill multiple positions and remains open until suitable candidates are found.