Communications Coordinator

COMMITMENT TO EQUITY AND INCLUSION

As an employer, we strive to provide a work environment where diversity and differing opinions are valued, creativity is encouraged, continuous learning and improvement are fostered, teamwork and open/honest communication are encouraged, and meeting customer needs through quality service is a shared goal. All employees must be able to demonstrate multicultural competence – the awareness, knowledge, and skills needed to work with others who are culturally different from self in meaningful, relevant, and productive ways. Applicants from traditionally underrepresented populations including women, racial and ethnic minorities, and persons with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.

DEFINITION

This is professional public relations and communications position performed with a high degree of independence. Under the general supervision of the Human Services Communication Manager, this position is responsible for making final decisions on overall strategy and editorial content. Position will coordinate and implement tactical communications activities for Human Services. The work involves developing and implementing publicity, public relations materials within the strategic context of DCDHS communications plan. There is an emphasis on digital media (audio and video) production and media relations.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

Work with staff to foster and recommend public information campaigns, within the communications strategy, consistent with the department’s mission and goals; work with the communications team to evaluate communications plans. Produce materials including written documents, audio, video, and graphics; distribute news via department outlets, media, and specific outreach materials to identified community audiences and stakeholders. Support department communication needs; create materials, draft speaking notes, and review broad communications.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS

Education, Training and Experience:

A combination of education and experience equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, marketing, political science/public administration, or a closely related field and two (2) years professional public relations or communications experience.

Special Requirements:

As a condition of employment, employees are required to be current, and remain current, with certain immunizations and vaccinations. A list will be provided at the time of the job offer.

Background Check Statement: Some positions may require a criminal background check which can include fingerprinting due to the nature of the job’s responsibilities. Wisconsin’s Fair Employment Law, s. 111.31 – 111.395, Wis. Stats., prohibits discrimination because of an arrest or conviction record. However, Dane County may disqualify an applicant if the position’s responsibilities are substantially related to the applicant’s criminal history (e.g., the nature of the crime and its relationship to the position, whether hiring, transferring or promoting an applicant would pose an unreasonable risk to the business, its employees, customers and vendors, etc.) Management reserves the right to make employment contingent upon successful completion of the background check.

For Bilingual Positions:

1) Provide services in both English and the required foreign language (e.g., Spanish, Hmong, etc.).

2) Applicants being considered for Bilingual positions will be tested during the recruitment process. This may consist of either being able to respond to questions in that language (e.g., Spanish, Hmong, etc.) during the interview; or passing an oral translation (English to foreign language / foreign language to English) exam prior to employment.

Physical and Environmental Work Requirements:

Sitting for long periods of time, extensive use of computer and phone; regular interpersonal contact with human services staff and community representatives; travel within Dane County and occasional out of town travel for statewide meetings; must have ability to transport oneself. Majority of work occurs remotely, but can include occasional travel to and from other Dane County sites.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Extensive knowledge of communication best practices, including: setting communication objectives, audience segmentation, researching and developing messages, design and layout of communication resource materials, and using multiple platforms for message distribution and production. Working knowledge of print and broadcast media; ability to develop, recommend and promote public information materials in keeping with the department’s missions and goals; ability to communicate effectively both in writing and orally; ability to cultivate and maintain beneficial relations with the media; ability to produce and promote public information events, produce audio and/or video clips, and public service announcements and to review and edit the related work of others; ability to compile promotional information about Human Services; ability to organize activities, establish priorities, and meet deadlines; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships; and ability to maintain adequate attendance.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $41.61 - $55.41 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

• analyzing, interpreting and visualizing complex data: 3 years (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Madison, WI: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person