This position is responsible for performing intermediate professional work involved in disseminating city news and information about city programs, services, special events and other items of interest to the Rockville community. The incumbent is comfortable working independently, and as part of a team of creative communication and community engagement professionals. The incumbent is a strong writer and can effectively communicate complex information to the public in a variety of media. The incumbent can manage multiple projects successfully. The incumbent works with the communications team to determine the city's communication content and acts as a project manager for strategic communication planning and execution. The working conditions are good but can be stressful when working with competing priorities and strict deadlines. Hours will include some nights and weekends. The work is subject to general policies, practices and procedures under the direction of the director and assistant director of the Department of Communications and Community Engagement.
- Writes for various media including web, social media, press releases and newspaper.
- Plans content, researches, writes and edits articles for the city's online/print newsletter, "Rockville Reports."
- Produces special documents such as the city's election guide and the annual report.
- Responsible for the timely release of city news through news releases, newsletters, social media and verbal contact with the press.
- Devises creative ways to engage the community and promote civic involvement, which includes working directly with the Community Engagement Division to utilize the city’s outreach and communication tools and platforms in citywide community engagement plans.
- Takes the lead in writing and implementing strategic communication and marketing plans for city programs, departments and events.
- Coordinates messaging across all city media.
- Produces internal communications.
- Proofs materials for adherence to the city's style and brand.
- Implements the city's brand messaging.
- Advises departments on handling media inquiries.
- Maintains open lines of communication with media members by advising them of opportunities for articles and photos, responding to inquiries, setting up interviews and providing background information.
- Performs other duties as required.
Bachelor’s degree with major coursework in journalism, public relations, English communication or closely related field from an accredited university or college; and three (3) years of progressively responsible work in journalism, public relations or public information; or any equivalent combination of experience.
- Ability to rapidly acquire knowledge and communicate it effectively to the public accurately and quickly.
- Ability to determine and communicate effective messaging.
- Writing, editing and proofreading skills.
- Knowledge of standard guidelines and practices in public information and journalism.
- Knowledge of Associated Press style.
- Knowledge, skill and comfort with using office equipment and software.
- Strong organizational skills, including managing time and planning and prioritizing content to meet multiple deadlines.
- Skill in marketing using a variety of media.
- Strong oral communication skills for discussing complex information and addressing sometimes frustrating situations with coworkers across the city organization.
- Ability to work with many types of people.
- Skill in media relations.
- Innovative and creative ability to develop fresh ideas and content.