Communications Manager

Back to all Jobs Communications Manager Department: Information Technology Job Status: Full-Time Days Worked: Mon., Tue., Wed., Thu., Fri. Status: Open Until Filled Details: This is a full-time benefited position that offers a starting annual rate of $64,364 - $72,443 depending on experience. Apply Now Job Description Join the Amherst team as Communications Manager!

The Job: The Town of Amherst is looking for a Communications Manager. The Communications Manager works closely with the Town Manager's Office to strategize and implement an overall communications plan for the Town. This work includes responsibility for web governance and social media policies; identifying and assisting in the procurement and implementation of digital tools and software; expanding community engagement opportunities and opportunities for participation in Amherst government; and increasing the transparency and accessibility of Town information and services to the public.

The Skills: If you have a Bachelor's Degree and 3-5 years of professional experience in public policy, public administration, computer science, information technology, communications, or a closely related field (or an equivalent combination of education and experience), AND experience developing digital and social media strategies to deliver specific objectives and targeted information to diverse audiences and stakeholders, APPLY TODAY! The Deal: This is a Non-Union position with a pay range of $64,364-$72,443, and excellent employee benefits. The Town enjoys a long tradition of active, participatory, & professional government, and seeks a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community.

POSITION DESCRIPTION Communications Manager Town Manager's Office Non-Union Level 5 Job Summary The Communications Manager is responsible for implementing an overall communications strategy for the Town of Amherst, including for developing and executing web governance policies; developing and expanding community outreach and engagement opportunities and participation in Amherst government; and for increasing the transparency and accessibility of Town information and services. The Communications Manager manages the Town's web and social media presence, and its press relations; and is a primary support for communications during emergencies. Supervision Received Works under the general supervision of the Town Manager who assigns tasks based on overall objectives, reviews work, and evaluates performance.

Supervision Exercised Generally none. Employee responsible for own work but may oversee the work of volunteers and interns. Major Duties Works with the Town Manager to create, implement, and maintain a communications strategic plan, web governance policies, and digital engagement strategies aimed at both communicating information and initiatives to the public and establishing a unified and professional brand for the Town.

Manages the Town's web presence, including its mobile applications and social media channels; Develops and maintains related policies; Provides training on website and social media maintenance, as needed. Manages digital tools and services (including Employee Self-Service systems); Works collaboratively to assist in the selection, set-up, and implementation of outward facing software and systems; Manages upgrades, trouble shooting, and problem resolution. Provides training on digital tools, as needed.

Responsible for drafting and issuing press releases in collaboration with the Town Manager's Office, and for facilitating other outward- and inward-facing communications, as needed; Provides support and assistance to departments in developing press releases, articles, videography, and related media activities to inform various audiences (such as residents, neighborhood groups, and elected officials); Develops and maintains communications protocols; Responsible for translating technical information into digestible and easy to understand information for the end user community. Initiates special outreach initiatives such as presentations, newsletters, employee testimonial campaigns, podcasts, and public forum events; Develops public participation and stakeholder engagement programs related to Town goals; Participates in grant development, policy research, and collection of data on Town programs and services. A member of the Emergency Management Team and responsible for functioning as the Town's alerting authority via the Town's Integrated Public Awareness and Warning System (IPAWS); Provides communications support to the Communications Department (Dispatch) in times of emergency and high need-- consulting with emergency management personnel, fielding requests for information, and disseminating information; Works with other departments, including Public Works, Fire, and Police, to oversee emergency mass notification tools; Maintains and disseminates critical information to key stakeholders and the public as needed.

Participates on Boards/Committees as determined by the Town Manager and performs other duties as assigned. Attends events that may occur outside of normal business hours. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree in public policy, public administration, computer science, information technology, communications, or closely related field PLUS 3-5 years of professional experience in public information, information technology, or related field; OR equivalent combination of education and experience to demonstrate the ability to perform the required duties.

In addition, the successful candidate must possess: Experience with graphic design and website system development or administration. Experience working on websites, intranets, or other media to ensure quality, user-friendly, dynamic, and accessible content. Experience overseeing web content management systems and the ability to adapt website structure and content.

Experience developing digital media and social media strategies to deliver specific objectives. Ability to communicate with diverse audiences, exceptional written and oral communication skills, and demonstrated presentation and facilitation skills. Exceptional people skills and enthusiasm for collaborative work.

Excellent organizational skills and keen attention to detail. Commitment to the principles of open government, transparency, and community engagement. Demonstrated presentation and facilitation skills.

Knowledge of protocol when working with confidential matters. Ability to manage competing priorities and to complete tasks on-time. Preferred Qualifications Experience creating successful public education or communications campaigns.

Experience communicating information during crisis and as a part of an emergency management team. Municipal experience, and advanced knowledge of government technology and software platforms. Physical Demands The physical demands and work environment described here reflect those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions., The employee is frequently required to sit and talk or hear, use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to walk. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. Work Environment The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet to moderate, in an office or classroom. Physical Demands The physical demands and work environment described here reflect those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions., The employee is frequently required to sit and talk or hear, use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to walk. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change. The Town of Amherst seeks a workforce that reflects the diversity of its community and strives toward racial equity and environmental sustainability.

All are encouraged to apply. AA/EEO. Disclaimer Smoking Policy Pursuant to the Massachusetts General Laws, smoking is not allowed in Town buildings.

Also, Massachusetts General Laws state that no person who smokes any tobacco product shall be eligible for appointment as a police officer or firefighter. Background Check All candidates that are offered a position with the Town must successfully complete a background investigation, which may include a pre-employment physical, pre-placement drug test, CORI and SORI checks.