What are the responsibilities and job description for the Communications Specialist position at Buffalo Common Council?
The Buffalo Common Council's Central Staff Office is seeking a Communications Specialist with strong writing and content creation abilities. This role demands a strategic thinker with an eye for detail who can thrive under pressure and meet deadlines.
The ideal candidate will have exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to multitask and adapt in a fast-paced environment. Success in this role requires being innovative, organized, and self-motivated, with a focus on delivering strategic messages to key internal and external stakeholders.
Communications Specialist Responsibilities:
● Collaborate closely with the Council Chief of Staff, Council Director of Communications, the Council's Communication Team, and Council Leadership.
● Assist with the execution of a communication strategy, including media outreach and social media content creation.
● Research and assist with drafting press releases, website content, infographics, flyers, and newsletters.
● Maintain in-depth knowledge of the Council’s policies, principles, and strategies, and stay informed on relevant developments.
● Assist in coordinating press conferences.
● Plan, organize, and manage community events.
● Follow the Council’s style guide to ensure the production of high-quality, error-free copy.
● Work with key internal stakeholders to brainstorm content ideas aligned with the Council’s strategy and brand initiatives.
● Support and assess the outcomes of communication campaigns with the team.
● Build and sustain relationships with media and key external stakeholders.
Communications Specialist Requirements:
● Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, political science, or a related field (required).
● Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in journalism (broadcast or print), public relations, or communications strategy development (required).
● Must be a resident of the City of Buffalo at the time of hire and maintain residency throughout employment.
● Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
● Ability to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
● Highly proficient in email, MS Office, and related business and communication tools.
● Experience in content writing for all media platforms.
● Experience in podcast production
● Proven social media and networking expertise.
● Strategic and creative thinking.
● Strong attention to detail.
● Portfolio of work available for review.
● Familiarity with Adobe Suite and Canva.
● Photography and videography skills are a plus.
Job Benefits:
● Competitive pay.
● Excellent healthcare packages.
● Retirement and pension benefits.
● Flexible schedule.
● Opportunity to make a direct impact on your community.
The City of Buffalo is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, public assistance status, disability, handicap, or political affiliation. Buffalo is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and adheres to the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA).
Salary : $45,505