Communications Specialist

I. JOB OBJECTIVE

A. Basic Function of position

The Communications Specialist is responsible for a wide range of member related and other communication activities and tasks at NEC. This position is responsible for promoting NEC and its objectives and programs while ensuring consistent and effective messaging regarding NEC. Duties include designing and producing ongoing member and other communications of various types, planning and working with Management to develop and implement a communications plan and assisting in internal and external communications.

B. Reporting Relationships

Reports to the President/Chief Executive Officer

C. External Contacts

Members/Public

Media, i.e. radio, newspaper

Statewide Associations

NRECA

Other co-ops and utilities

D. Exempt Position

II. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

A. Duties Performed Regularly

1. Work with Management to create, implement and maintain a communications plan.

2. Write, coordinate, design and publish various external member communication publications, as well as media and other publications.

3. Support line organizations with communications activities and tasks.

4. Plan, implement, and evaluate special events, public hearings and meetings.

5. Promote NEC while ensuring consistent messaging of NEC objectives.

6. Conduct external media communications during outages, including radio announcements, press releases and other local and regional media updates.

7. Attend and represent NEC at other utilities, service organizations, various media, public or governmental committees and agencies.

8. Prepare materials for special projects as assigned.

9. Other duties as assigned.

B. Special Duties

1. Assist in various responsibilities associated with the NEC Annual Membership Meeting preparations.

2. Coordinate the NEC WDCYT & Scholarship Programs

3. Coordinate the NEC Coop Connections Program

III. ACCESS TO CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION

A. This position has access to much of the confidential information which is used by the President & Chief Executive Officer, department managers, attorneys, and the Board of Directors.

IV. ACCESS TO COMPANY FUNDS – No

V. LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

A. English is the business language of NEC.

B. Second Languages are regarded as excellent and desirable skills.

VI. SUPERVISION – None

VII. MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT – Standard office supplies and equipment

VIII. SOURCE OF INFORMATION

A. Oral

B. Written

C. Graphics

IX. RECORDS AND REPORTS - Internal

X. DECISION-MAKING AUTHORITY - As required under the direction of the President/Chief Executive Officer.

XI. OCCURRENCE AND CORRECTION OF ERRORS – Policy

XII. JOB SPECIFICATIONS

A. Formal Education

1. Associate’s Degree in Communications, Marketing, Journalism or related field.

2. BA or BS in Communications, Marketing, Journalism, or related field is preferred.

B. Previous Job Experience

1. Five years of directly related experience conducting the communication function at a business. Previous experience in business communications, marketing, print journalism, television, and/or radio, is preferred. 2. Previous experience in an Electric Utility or Electric Cooperative is preferred.

C. Special Skills

1. Must be fully competent in Microsoft Office software and have ability to use other communications related applications.

2. General knowledge of office procedures required.

3. Must have excellent written and oral communication skills.

4. Must be able to build and maintain relationships with a wide range of people across NEC. Ability to understand complex energy related topics and translate them into readable, understandable information for multiple audiences.

5. Must be comfortable working under deadlines.

6. Have the proven ability to maintain confidentiality.

7. Have the proven ability to proof read and correct spellings, misuse of language, etc., in documents vital to NEC (i.e. bylaws, policy manual).

8. Have the proven ability to operate office machines proficiently and accurately including typewriter, calculator, copy machine, fax, PC, etc.

9. Have the proven ability to use good judgment and make necessary decisions in line with the NEC’s goals and standards.

10. Have proven organizational ability, to include scheduling and making necessary travel reservations.

11. Have proven work experience in multitasking and be detail oriented.

12. Be willing and capable to travel for educational and job responsibility duties, including overnight stays as may be required.

13. Have the proven ability to work independently of others and maintain a high level of productivity.

14. Be fully qualified in Word Processing, Spreadsheet and Database programs (e.g. Microsoft Word, Access, Excel, etc.).

15. Have experience with graphic design, desktop publishing and print process.

16. Be able to develop a thorough knowledge and understanding of NEC policies, programs, and practices.

17. Have or be able to obtain a valid Arizona driver’s license within 30 days of employment.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• Communcations: 5 years (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Pinetop, AZ 85935 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Pinetop, AZ 85935: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person