Communications Specialist

Assists in the development and implementation of various media platforms, promotional and educational material, marketing and advertising programs, graphic designs, plans, and strategies to effectively promote the image, goals, objectives, activities, and events of the City of Las Cruces.

Environmental Factors

Work is primarily performed in a standard office environment. 

Physical Factors

Light physical demands; mostly desk work requiring the ability to lift and carry files and reports and frequent use of a personal computer.

Work Situation Factors

Position involves competing demands, performing multiple tasks, working to deadlines, occasional work beyond normal business hours, and responding to customer issues.  Regular attendance is an essential function of this job to ensure continuity of services.  Position is subject to drug testing in accordance with applicable State and Federal regulations and City of Las Cruces policies. 

Meeting or exceeding the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an invitation to participate in the process. 

FIRST CONSIDERATION MAY BE GIVEN TO CURRENT EMPLOYEES WHO MEET THE MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS. 

Full-time, regular, non-exempt position 

This position is graded RN13.  

• Designs and produces engaging multimedia content for various marketing materials including, including brochures, posters, banners, advertisements, annual reports, calendars, booklets and reports; ensures consistency in design elements and branding standards across all marketing channels and materials. 
• Manages and develops content for social media and updates various social media platforms; coordinates the development and distribution of information utilizing a variety of media and responds to inquiries to ensure effective, consistent, accurate, and timely communication.
• Conducts research on various topics, events, activities, and items of interest or concern; responds to inquiries and requests and gathers information to prepare packets of information for dissemination; collaborates with various departments to brainstorm ideas and strategies for promotional and education campaigns and initiatives. 
• Prepares and presents various special and recurring reports; maintains program records and files to ensure compliance and meet performance targets.
• Prepares, reviews, and edits draft communications such as news releases, feature stories, newsletters, and marketing and advertising material to meet deadlines and provide accurate, clear, and concise information; visualizes, designs, and creates layouts and exhibit panels.
• Assist with various projects to include advertising, marketing, social media, and sales initiatives to meet established goals and objectives; presents educational and informational materials in an engaging and understandable way; may include use of multiple languages in projects and presentations. 
• Stays updated on industry trends and best practices in graphic design and incorporates innovate ideas into projects; ensures end products adhere to ADA compliant standards and incorporate Universal Design. 

Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Marketing, Creative Media, or related field AND one (1) year of related experience in graphic design, media, marketing or advertising that has reasonably prepared the applicant to successfully perform the duties and responsibilities of the position, such as those listed above.  A combination of education, experience, and training may be applied in accordance with City of Las Cruces policy. Bilingual skills (English/Spanish) may be preferred. 

Licenses/Certification(s)

Valid class D driver's license may be required or preferred. If applicable, position requires an acceptable driving record in accordance with City of Las Cruces policies.  

Knowledge of:  principles, practices, techniques, activities, rules, and regulations of effective journalism, mass communications, media, marketing, advertising, public relations, Digital ADA Compliance; WGAC Guidelines, Universal Design;   current principles of record keeping and records management; principles and practices of effective research methods and data analysis, customer service, and problem resolution techniques; occupational and environmental safety and health hazards, and safety practices; safe and effective use and maintenance of related tools, materials, and equipment; current methods and standards for preparing effective business correspondence; correct English usage, grammar, composition, spelling, punctuation and vocabulary; business and personal computers and related software applications; City organization, operations, policies, and procedures to effectively perform the required functions and duties of the position.

Ability to:  perform a variety of duties and responsibilities and assess and prioritize multiple tasks, projects, and demands to meet deadlines; ensure appropriate levels of customer service to achieve expectations and meet objectives; read, understand, and assure compliance with a variety of policies, procedures, rules, standards, and regulations governing related activities and functions; generate new and creative ideas for marketing, advertising, and relevant web content; write and edit material; determine the best source and presentation of information; collect applicable information and maintain accurate and timely records; maintain confidentiality of information and data; communicate effectively orally and in writing and use interpersonal skills to sufficiently exchange or convey information and receive work direction; prepare and present accurate and reliable information and reports; establish and maintain effective and appropriate working relationships with employees, other agencies, and the public; safely and effectively operate relevant tools, equipment, and motorized vehicles; timely and accurately enter data and update records using various mediums and formats; take initiative and exercise sound independent judgment within established procedural guidelines and carry out primary responsibilities in accordance with all governing regulations, statutes, and procedures to ensure achievement of goals and objectives. 

Skills in:  communicating effectively and preparing and presenting information for diverse audiences; reading, understanding, and applying relevant rules, ordinances, codes, regulations, policies, and procedures; effectively managing assignments; drawing and illustration; responding to inquiries timely and within the scope of delegated authority; responding appropriately, maintaining objectivity and freedom from prejudice, and exercising sound judgment and understanding in all interactions; effectively working  independently, or as a team member, in various environments with changing priorities; preparing and presenting various reports, documents, forms, and correspondence; researching information, analyzing data, maintaining accurate records, and updating information in various mediums and formats; operating a personal computer with installed generic and specialized software; Adobe Creative Suite; preparing and presenting information in a clear and concise manner; demonstrating appropriate and effective interpersonal communication and conflict resolution skills; performing highly effective support in assigned areas.