Bridge Builder: Public Safety Community Engagement

City of Appleton; Appleton (WI); On-site; USD 52,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Appleton is seeking a full-time Community Engagement Specialist to strengthen ties between the Appleton Police Department (APD) and the community through strategic communication and outreach programming. You will report to the Community Resource Unit Captain and serve as a bridge among the department, civic groups, neighborhoods, and partner organizations to promote transparency and trust.

You’ll work on engagement initiatives, manage social media content, support news conferences,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in communications, public administration, or a related field.
• Preferred experience in community engagement or communications.
• Understanding of public, media, and community relations principles.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with diverse audiences.
• Strong organizational ability, time-management, and attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.
• Knowledge of computer programs and AV/photography editing tools.

Responsibilities

• Build, maintain, and strengthen relationships with schools, nonprofits, businesses, and community groups.
• Coordinate and attend outreach events, meetings, and engagement initiatives.
• Lead Neighborhood Watch/Neighborhoods program and volunteer program.
• Facilitate community meetings to exchange information and build trust.
• Communicate APD initiatives and events clearly to the public.
• Respond to inquiries via email, website, and phone with consistency.
• Assist in planning news conferences, media events, and critical-incident communication.
• Maintain website content and ensure ADA-compliant messaging.
• Track engagement metrics and feedback trends.
• Contribute to social media content reflecting APD priorities.
• Capture photos/videos to support digital storytelling and department visibility.
• Coordinate community programs and seasonal campaigns with staff.
• Support special projects, surveys, and grant-related outreach.

Skills

Community engagement

Public relations

Communication

Organizational skills

Confidentiality

Photo/Video editing basics

Education

Bachelor's degree in communications, public administration, or related field

Job description

The City of Appleton is seeking a full-time Community Engagement Specialist to strengthen ties between the Appleton Police Department (APD) and the community through strategic communication and outreach programming. You will report to the Community Resource Unit Captain and serve as a bridge among the department, civic groups, neighborhoods, and partner organizations to promote transparency and trust.

You’ll work on engagement initiatives, manage social media content, support news conferences,