Council Communications Strategist - District 8 Council Office

  • City of Austin, TX
  • Austin, Texas
  • Apr 19, 2024
Full Time Information Technology and Communication Services

Job Description

Minimum Qualifications
Education and/or Equivalent Experience:
  • Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in a field related to the job, plus two (2) years of related experience.
  • Experience can substitute for the education up to the maximum of (4) years.


Licenses or Certifications:
  • None.
Notes to Applicants
Austin Councilmember Paige Ellis is seeking a creative, strategic communicator who can leverage a variety of traditional and modern media types to engage and educate the public about the work of the Council Member, the City Council, and the City of Austin.

Strong candidates will possess the following:
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing - with poise and empathy
  • Storytelling ability using a variety of media to include photography and video production
  • Familiarity with event management
  • Flexibility with regard to work schedule and ability to attend community events during evenings and weekends, as needed.
  • Familiarity with Austin and Texas political landscapes and desire to increase awareness in local policy and governmental relations
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced work environment and handle competing priorities
  • Ability to independently manage job responsibilities as part of tight-knit, highly functioning team


The following items are required to complete the application process:
  • Resume
  • Cover Letter


Note - Applicants selected for interview should be prepared to share past work; we welcome relevant communications experience from a variety of backgrounds, but applicant should be able to clearly explain the transferability to this role.

Work Location - Hybrid: Austin City Hall (301 W 2nd St), Telework, and other event locations as needed by the Council Member

Travel:

If you are selected for this position, and meet the Driver Safety Standards in the City of Austin Driver Safety Program, you may drive when necessary to multiple locations as part of your regular job duties. Otherwise, you are responsible for getting to and from these locations.

Pay Range
$33.00 - $38.50
Hours
Work hours will vary depending on operational needs. Some evenings and weekends will be required.
Job Close Date 05/06/2024 Type of Posting External Department Mayor and Council Regular/Temporary Regular Grant Funded or Pooled Position Not Applicable Category Professional Location See Notes to Applicant section Preferred Qualifications
Preferred Experience:
  • Previous work in local government,community relations, progressive issues, community organizing, and/or political communications
  • Experience creating and implementing digital communication strategies
  • Speech writing experience
  • Experience working in partnership with diverse communities, and maintaining strong working relationships with partners
  • Experience with hybrid teamwork tools (Slack, Google Drive, Teams, etc.)
  • Ability to travel to more than one work location


Duties, Functions and Responsibilities
Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.
Researches, organizes analyzes and interprets information to be used in policy making and/or constituent communications. Monitors issues and projects. Prepares, edits and summarizes reports, memos and correspondence; communicating in a professional manner. Acts as liaison between City Executives and City departments. Reviews City Council agenda items. Attends Council meetings, work sessions, community events, etc. Facilitates the flow of information among various groups, (i.e. community, political etc.). Coordinates activities or projects with others.

Responsibilities- Supervision and/or Leadership Exercised:
  • May lead and train others.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.
  • Knowledge of the functions and organization of municipal government, to include the relationships between departments, divisions, and agencies.
  • Knowledge of Federal, State and Local laws.
  • Knowledge of city practice, policy and procedures.
  • Skill in oral and written communication.
  • Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
  • Skill in using computers and related software applications.
  • Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
  • Skill in planning and organizing.
  • Ability to prepare clear and concise written reports, able to communicate in a professional manner with the public.
  • Ability to interpret policies, and guidelines as they relate to municipal government.
  • Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with city employees and the public.
  • Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
  • Ability to exercise discretion in confidential matters.
  • Ability to lead and train others.
Criminal Background Investigation This position does not require a Criminal Background Investigation EEO/ADA
City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call (512) 974-3210 or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual’s AIDS , AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.
Information For City Employees: If you are an employee within the department, are in good standing and meet both the minimum and preferred qualifications, then you will receive an initial interview.

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
* This position requires graduation with a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in a field related to the job plus two (2) years of experience. Experience may substitute for education for up to four (4) years. Do you meet these minimum requirements?
  • Yes
  • No
* Please describe your education and your work experience as it relates to this position, particularly as described in the Notes to Applicants and Preferred Qualifications.
(Open Ended Question)
* Please describe a project or initiative that you led that illustrates your strengths and/or abilities with regard to public service, activism, community collaboration, and/or public relations.
(Open Ended Question)
* Describe your experience in implementing successful social media and communication campaigns.
(Open Ended Question)
* Do you have the ability to travel to multiple sites as part of the regular job duties?
  • Yes
  • No


Optional & Required Documents

Required Documents Cover Letter Resume Optional Documents

Job Address

Austin, Texas United States View Map