Description/Special InstructionsThe City of Elk Grove is now accepting applications for the position of COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING SPECIALIST Telling the City’s story in a way that engages, informs, inspires, and connects us with the community and followers from throughout the region is at the heart of the work we do in the Public Affairs Department. As a highly visible division of the City Manager’s Office, we’re seeking a talented communicator who can curate content for print and digital media. The ideal candidate will be a skilled writer, storyteller, and project manager with the know-how to develop compelling and engaging social media content, write and edit newsletters, create reels and short videos for social media platforms, as well as other related tasks. They will also have a strong understanding, interest, and ability to incorporate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in their work. This position will collaborate with talented in-house designers and multiple departments across the organization to transform ideas into content and campaigns that will be shared with key audiences. The successful candidate will have a thorough understanding of branding, strong writing and communication skills, able to present their ideas effectively, juggle multiple projects at once, and respond adeptly to feedback. They will also have the ability to meet multiple deadlines without compromising quality and will be consumed with learning the latest communication trends and technologies.
The City of Elk Grove is a City Welcome to All. We strive to reflect the community we serve in our materials and are always looking for ways to improve. If you have a knack for flack, love to learn, and want to make a difference through service, apply today!
Tentative Recruitment Timeline (subject to change)
Filing Deadline
: 11:59 P.M. on September 9, 2024
Oral Board Interviews: September 24, 2024 (Virtual)
Selection Interviews: October 8, 2024 (In Person)
The City offers a competitive salary and generous benefit package including CalPERS retirement benefits, a deferred compensation match and more.
Why work for the City of Elk Grove? Proud Heritage. Bright Future.
Community Profile
Elk Grove is a vibrant, family-friendly community of approximately 178,124 people in the Sacramento, California region, located 14 miles south of the State Capital and 60 miles east of the Bay Area. Elk Grove is a young, ethnically diverse, modern city that was incorporated in 2000. Elk Grove has low crime, excellent schools, over 100 community parks and 28 miles of trails, plentiful dining and shopping options, numerous annual events and festivals, and over 270 sunny days per year.
Representative Duties DEFINITION Under general supervision performs and supports a wide variety of communication and marketing projects to promote the City's brand, department programs, and City projects; develops content and prepares marketing plans for city projects; cultivates the City's social media presence; performs community outreach to expand public awareness and education on city services; coordinates the creation, production, and delivery of city print and digital newsletters, signage and street banners; utilizes video and other current technologies in social media messaging, staff a City Commission or Committee, and performs data tracking and analysis of marketing and engagement efforts.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Receives general supervision from the Public Affairs and Communications Manager. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS This is a journey level specialist classification performing the full range of duties assigned. Employees at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit. This classification works directly to support the Public Affairs and Communications Manager with content creation, communication, and marketing efforts for internal and external customers. The Communications and Marketing Specialist is distinguished from the Multimedia Specialist series in that the latter focuses on the operation and maintenance of City-wide multimedia systems, including website management, graphic design, A/V operation, and video production. The Communications and Marketing Specialist is distinguished from the Community Events Specialist in that the latter focuses on planning and coordination of events held within the City of Elk Grove.
EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only) Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodations so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.
- Creates, updates, edits, and publishes content for a variety of messaging platforms (i.e. print, electronic, social media, web, mobile, broadcast, etc.) and audiences (i.e. internal and external), creating broad public awareness and understanding. and effectively communicating the City’s message.
- Assists with the planning and development of communications and marketing strategies for City programs, activities and services; fosters public awareness of available services, programs and events.
- Schedules and manages content for the City's social media accounts.
- Coordinates and/or prepares materials to support the City’s marketing and communications efforts.
- Researches and writes articles, brochures, reports, social media posts, website content, press releases, and fact sheets pertaining to City issues, activities or events.
- Acts as a liaison for a City Commission or Committee.
- Coordinates newsletter projects for the City’s internal and external audiences.
- Coordinates various marketing and communication programs including but not limited to the event advertising signage and street banner programs.
- Implements and administers marketing and outreach plans for community engagement, including social marketing campaigns, training and education, and multimedia promotional materials.
- Provides technical support to other city staff in developing, maintaining, and implementing comprehensive outreach and education programs.
- Researches and makes recommendations on issues related to public relations.
- Delivers clear, concise, and effective verbal and written communications. Assists in the resolution of customer and media inquiries. Practices tact, diplomacy, and empathy in all interactions with the public, governmental agencies, media and community organizations.
- Performs data tracking and analysis of marketing and engagement efforts.
- Stays current and forward thinking on new social media tools, platforms, and best practices.
- Performs related duties as assigned.
Qualifications QUALIFICATIONS Knowledge of: - Digital marketing tactics, including social media management, email marketing, search engine optimization (SEO) and content marketing, to engage with residents online and increase outreach. Techniques, processes, and materials used in the development of public information, outreach, and marketing materials.
- Strong knowledge of current and upcoming social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Snapchat, Instagram, etc.); social media techniques and best practices.
- Methods of presenting and disseminating public information through various media, including newspapers, radio, television, and websites.
- Methods and techniques of research, data analysis, writing and editing.
- Skills in project management to oversee multiple communication projects simultaneously, set timelines, allocate resources, and ensure timely delivery of communication materials.
- Understanding of budgeting principles to manage allocated funds for communication and marketing initiatives effectively.
- Applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulatory codes, ordinances, and procedures relevant to assigned areas of responsibility.
- Emerging trends of public relations, marketing, and social media platforms.
- Techniques for effectively representing the City in contacts with governmental agencies, media groups, community groups, and various business, professional, educational, regulatory, and legislative organizations.
- Recent and on-going developments, current literature, and sources of information related to the operations of the assigned division.
- Methods and techniques of preparing technical and administrative reports, and general business correspondence.
- City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
- Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.
- Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging concepts and principles, including their significance in organizational dynamics and the functioning of the City and their impact on fostering innovation and collaboration.
- The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
- Current equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.
Ability to: - Develop messaging that suits the preferences, needs, and communication styles of various audiences and platforms.
- Adapt to changing circumstances, think creatively, and find innovative solutions to communication challenges.
- Anticipate and effectively respond to crises or emergencies and act as a resource that supports a timely and effective resolution.
- Stay abreast of emerging trends in communications, marketing, and social media.
- Develop, design, and produce a variety of public relations, media and marketing materials.
- Analyze data and determine communication needs and create effective strategies for internal and external customers.
- Understand, interpret, and deliver the key messages and missions of various departments.
- Plan and coordinate programs and special events related to community relations and media liaison.
- Work on concurrent assignments under time constraints; meet publication and distribution deadlines.
- Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
- Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
- Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural and legal guidelines.
- Engage with a diverse public and workforce, facilitating inclusive service delivery, and implementing equitable city policies.
- Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Education and Experience:A bachelor's degree in marketing, advertising, public relations, journalism, graphic design or a closely related field from an accredited college or university with two (2) years of responsible marketing and/or public communications experience.
Licenses and Certifications: Physical Demands and Work Environment PHYSICAL DEMANDS Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer, vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. Standing in and walking between work areas is frequently required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification frequently bend, stoop, kneel, and reach to perform assigned duties, as well as push and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects up to 10 pounds. Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities who are qualified to perform essential functions of a position or positions within this classification.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS Employees predominately work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees may work in the field occasionally and be exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road hazards, vibration, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous chemical substances and fumes. Employees may interact with members of the public or with staff under emotionally stressful conditions while interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.
WORKING CONDITIONS Employees may be expected to work weekends or evening meetings as required.
FLSA Status: Non-exempt
The City of Elk Grove is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and professionalism. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, should special accommodations be necessary at any stage of the selection process, please contact the Human Resources Department at (916) 478- 2230. The information above is subject to change without notice.
CITY OF ELK GROVE EMPLOYEE BENEFIT SUMMARY - NON REPRESENTED Annual Leave (vacation/sick)Upon Hire 176 hours 6.77 hours per pay period
5 Year Anniversary 216 hours 8.31 hours per pay period
10 Year Anniversary 232 hours 8.92 per pay period
15 Year Anniversary 256 hours 9.85 hours per pay period
20 Year anniversary 272 hours 10.46 per pay period
Deferred Compensation Employee may participate in a 457 deferred compensation plan up to maximum allowed by law.
Deferred Compensation - City Match The City will match up to 4% of employee's salary to a deferred compensation plan. There is a 1 year vesting period.
Employee Assistance Program Available to employee and immediate family.
Flexible Spending Account Covers IRS approved medical and/or approved dependent care expenses to be paid on a pre-tax basis.
- Medical spending up to $3200.00 annually.
- Dependent care up to $5,000 annually.
- Adoption Assistance FSA up to $16,810 annually.
Health (Medical) Insurance The City participates in the CalPERS Health Plan (PEMHCA) and offers a "cafeteria plan," which includes a monthly City contribution that an employee may apply toward premiums for medical insurance.
The City's Contribution rates for the 2024 plan year are as follows:
Single: up to $919.27 per month
2-Party: up to $1,838.54 per month
Family: up to $2,390.10 per month
Employees who show evidence of other group health insurance coverage and waive enrollment in a CalPERS health plan shall receive a taxable in lieu cash fringe allowance of $300 per month.
Dental Insurance 100% City paid for employee and eligible dependents if enrolled in the City's medical plan.
Vision Insurance 100% City paid for employee and eligible dependents if enrolled in the City's medical plan.
Pet Insurance City employees are eligible to purchase pet insurance at a discounted premium rate through MetLife
. Supplemental Health Insurance The City provides supplemental health insurance up to $15,000 per year for eligible participants.
Retirement Health savings Account City provided defined contribution program for IRS-eligible medical expenses upon retirement.
Holidays Twelve (12) paid holidays per year and sixteen (16) floating holiday hours per fiscal year. Employees who are assigned by the Police Chief to work shifts receive a 5% Holiday Pay Differential in lieu of paid holidays and eight (8) floating holiday hours per fiscal year.
Alternative Work Schedules Available depending on Department
Life Insurance City provides Life insurance at 1X base salary with a minimum of $50,000 and maximum of $300,000. Additional life insurance may be purchased by employee up to a maximum of $500,000.
Military Leave The City will pay qualified employees any difference between his/her base salary and the amount received in military reserve pay for regularly scheduled annual training that requires the employee to take military leave from his/her regular work week.
Retirement -PERS Your CalPERS Pension formula will be dependent upon your hire date with the City of Elk Grove and/or your status with any Public Retirement System.
- 2.7% at 55 if hired before 8/12/12.
- 2% at 55 if hired after 8/12/12 and a current Classic member of CalPERS.
- 2% at 62 if hired after 1/1/13 and not a Classic member of CalPERS.
Internal applicants will remain in their current retirement formula unless they are moving from a safety to miscellaneous classification.
Short Term/Long Term Disability - The City provides Short-Term Disability coverage @ 66.67% of income, up to a maximum benefit of $2,300 per week and Long-Term Disability coverage @ 66.67% of income, up to a maximum benefit of $15,000 per month.
- The City also provides Paid Family Leave coverage @ 60-70% of weekly earnings up to a maximum of $,1623 per week.
City employees
DO NOT contribute to the California State Disability Insurance (SDI) program.
Social Security City offers an IRS qualifying retirement plan, therefore, employees do not currently participate in the Social Security program.
Tuition Reimbursement 80% up to $2,000/year for City related Certification programss.
80% up to 3,500/year for Associates, Bachelors or Masters Degree
Wellness Program Amazing on-site Wellness Coordinator and multiple fitness and wellness classes such as yoga and pilates available throughout the week!
Closing Date/Time: 9/9/2024 11:59 PM Pacific
