Communications Specialist - Variable

arvada; Arvada (CO); On-site; USD 29,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Arvada seeks a communications professional to support Public Works and Utilities, coordinating routine communications, content, outreach, and customer inquiries.

The role develops digital and printed materials, drafts press releases, manages social media, and coordinates community engagement. Requires a Bachelor's degree and 2 years of related experience; CJIS certification is required; occasional evenings/weekends may be needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Public Administration, Finance or related field.
• Two years of related experience.

Responsibilities

• Coordinates communications for Public Works and Utilities across channels.
• Responds to customer questions via phone, email, web, and in-person contacts.
• Assists with website and social media content and updates.

Skills

Customer engagement

Content creation

Social media

Writing/editing

Public relations

Education

Bachelor's degree in Public Administration or related field

2 years of related experience

Job description

Pay Range - $ 21.00 - $39.99/hr

Starting salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity. The range listed reflects the entire range and typical placement is entry to mid range.

The City of Arvada promotes Equal Pay for Equal Work.

Position Purpose

Provides communications, public information, and customer engagement support for the Infrastructure Work System, including Public Works and Utilities. Coordinates routine communications, content, outreach, and customer inquiries and assists with promoting City programs, projects, services, and initiatives.

Essential Job Functions

• Coordinates and supports internal and external communications for Public Works and Utilities, including preparing, editing, distributing, and monitoring information through appropriate communication channels.
• Responds to and coordinates routine customer questions and service requests related to Public Works and Utilities through phone, email, web, in-person contacts, and the City's customer relationship management platform; refers complex issues to appropriate staff.
• Assists with website and social media content for Public Works and Utilities, including drafting, editing, posting, and maintaining current and accurate information in accordance with City communication standards.
• Assists with preparation of press releases, articles, newsletters, talking points, presentations, informational materials, and other communications related to Infrastructure programs and projects.
• Gather information from department staff and project stakeholders to develop clear and accurate communications regarding programs, services, projects, events, and operational activities.
• Assists with community outreach, public meetings, special events, and other engagement activities; coordinates logistics, prepares materials, and provides communications support as needed.
• Provides routine public information support by responding to or coordinating media and public inquiries and directing requests to appropriate City representatives.
• Assists with the development and production of communication materials, including graphics, photographs, flyers, presentations, web content, and other digital or printed materials.
• Coordinates routine communication projects and works with internal staff and external vendors to obtain information, materials, and services needed to complete assigned projects.
• Maintains working knowledge of Public Works and Utilities programs, services, projects, and issues and develops effective working relationships with department staff, Communications staff, community members, and partner organizations.
• Participates in City communications and engagement teams, committees, and work groups as assigned and supports coordination of consistent messaging across departments.
• Provides customer-focused service, responds to requests promptly, and communicates information in a professional, positive, and cooperative manner.

Other Job Functions

• Assists with special projects as requested.
• Must obtain and maintain a Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Certification.
• Must pass a criminal background check and a driving record check, if required by the position.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of communications, public information, customer engagement, and public relations principles and practices.
• Knowledge of website content management, social media, writing, editing, and basic graphic design tools.
• Ability to prepare clear, accurate, and audience-appropriate written and digital communications.
• Ability to coordinate multiple assignments, organize work, meet deadlines, and maintain attention to detail.
• Ability to research and learn technical information related to Public Works, Utilities, and municipal operations.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, customers, community members, media representatives, and other stakeholders.
• Strong written and verbal communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to exercise appropriate judgment and discretion when handling public and media inquiries.
• Ability to work independently within established procedures and seek direction when handling complex or sensitive matters.
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed for meetings, events, or emergency communications support.

Knowledge Skills Abilities Preferred

• Knowledge of WCAG guidelines for digital accessibility.
• Familiarity with local government structures.

Education Degree

Bachelors Degree (BA, BS, BBA)

Education Major

Public Administration, Finance or related field.

Education Required

An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Work Experience Related

Two (2) years of related experience.

Physical Demands

Minimal physical effort typically fou