What are the responsibilities and job description for the Communications Specialist I position at City of Des Moines, IA?
Distinguishing Features of the Class
Under the direct supervision of an assigned manager, performs responsible work as assigned. Responsibilities include assisting in coordinating video productions for television programs; computer programming for city cable channel; preparing and disseminating information on departmental and city-wide sponsored services and activities in order to develop and maintain public awareness and understanding of departmental and city programs; and perform related work as required.
Acceptable Experience and Training
Minimum education and experience requirements for compensation in MEA Range 20:
- Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Public Information/Relations, Marketing, Journalism or closely related field; and
- One(1) year experience with professional television, communications or public information, marketing/promotions or closely related field which includes related computer application experience; or
- Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to perform the work.
Minimum education and experience requirements for compensation in MEA Range 24:
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Public Information/Relations, Marketing, Journalism or closely related field; and
- Three(3) years experience with professional television, communications or public information, marketing/promotions or closely related field which includes related computer application experience; or
- Any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to perform the work.
NOTE: Transcripts verifying degree conferred or copies of certifications need to be submitted to the City of Des Moines Human Resources Department to receive credit. Please send electronically to humanresources@dmgov.org, by fax to 515-237-1680, or by mail to 1551 E MLK Jr Pkwy, Des Moines, IA 50317 by the application deadline.
Required Special Qualifications
- Candidates for positions in this class must pass a post-employment offer physical examination, drug screen and background check.
- Possession a valid Iowa driver’s license or evidence of equivalent mobility.
- Ability to successfully complete a background investigation.
Examples of Essential Work (Illustrative Only)
- Gather information to compose and disseminate marketing and communications content.
- Develops and maintains integrated content strategy.
- Coordinate and schedule video productions for city programs and special events.
- Consult with and provide assistance to appropriate departmental personnel in the preparation and dissemination of city-wide advertising, marketing and promotional materials which are designed to increase participation and/or attendance at public facilities and city-sponsored activities.
- Creates and edits original content for websites, newsletters, news releases, blogs, articles, social media, video and advertising and marketing materials.
- Gather information by interviewing others and/or receiving rough drafts from others to write and/or edit articles for city newsletters, video bulletin board announcements and informational brochures.
- Edit and type speeches from rough draft.
- Assist in maintaining and improving the television production equipment and computers.
- Observe communication operations and procedures and annually submit written recommendations for operational enhancement and/or modification.
- Organize and maintain video and photographic library, taking photographs in the field and/or making arrangements with others with the required expertise.
- Collect photographic materials and maintain a departmental photographic library for use in preparing printed materials.
