Communications and Outreach Coordinator

The City of Ottawa, Kansas is recruiting a Communications and Outreach Coordinator. The Communications and Outreach Coordinator plays a pivotal role in advancing the City of Ottawa’s communication and engagement strategies. Operating within the City Manager’s Office, this position bridges internal and external messaging, coordinates outreach initiatives, and ensures consistent, accessible communication across platforms. The role supports strategic priorities outlined in the city’s communications framework and works in close collaboration with city departments to ensure clear, timely, and community-centered communications.

Essential Job Functions
Strategic Communication & Coordination

• Assist in the development, execution, and refinement of integrated communication plans supporting city priorities, services, and community engagement goals.
• Coordinate with the City Manager and Multimedia Specialist to align messaging and public-facing content across digital, print, and in-person channels.
• Support crisis communications, including emergency communications planning and after-hours emergency response coordination.

• Plan and implement public forums, events, and outreach campaigns that foster community participation and trust.
• Serve as a liaison between city departments and the community to gather feedback and share updates on city projects and initiatives.
• Promote transparency and accessibility through inclusive engagement practices.

• Collaborate with Multimedia Specialist to draft, edit, and disseminate clear and engaging content including press releases, social media updates, newsletters, talking points, and event briefs.
• Maintain and update the city’s communications calendar, coordinating timing and messaging of campaigns and announcements.

• Prepare presentations, talking points, reports, for the City Manager and department heads.
• Track public inquiries and engagement metrics, offering regular reports to guide policy and strategy adjustments.
• Ensure adherence to city communication guidelines, branding standards, and legal requirements.

• Attend City Commission meetings, workshops, and community forums to remain informed and responsive.
• Serve as backup to other administrative or communications staff when required.
• Contribute to the annual evaluation and review of city communications programs.
• Perform additional job-related duties as assigned or as appropriate.

• Required: Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism, Public Administration, or related field.
• Preferred: At least three years of experience in a communications or outreach role, ideally within a public sector or municipal government environment.
• Experience with emergency communication systems (e.g., Everbridge) is a plus.

• Strong command of communication principles, public information standards, and branding practices.
• Skilled in social media management, digital content creation, and community outreach methods.
• Ability to manage multiple projects under pressure and adapt messaging for varied audiences.
• Demonstrated strategic thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a collaborative, community-focused mindset.
• Understanding of municipal operations and the role of local government communication.

• Primarily office-based with regular participation in community events and occasional after-hours responsibilities.
• Must be able to work under time-sensitive conditions, especially during crises or major events.

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods.
• May be required to lift items up to 20 pounds.
• Must possess verbal acuity and listening skills for community interaction and live communication.
• Regular attendance and availability during key events or emergencies are essential.

Range:                               $60,382.60 - $84,531.20

Date Opened:                   April 15, 2025
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Date Closed:                     May 15, 2025

Hours:                                8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday - Friday. 

Residency:     Regular full-time employees are required to establish and maintain residency within a driving distance of 35 miles of Ottawa City Hall within one year from hire. 

E-Mail Confirmation:  After your application has been received by the City of Ottawa, you will receive confirmation by e-mail. Please check your SPAM filter or JUNK Mail. If you have not received information within 48 hours of submitting your application, please call 785-229-3634 to verify application has been received. For additional information, contact Human Resources at 785-229-3634 or e-mail humanresources@ottawaks.gov.

Anyone with a disability who needs reasonable accommodation related to a selection process is requested to contact the Human Resources Department at 785-229-3634 at least two days prior to a scheduled test or interview.

The City of Ottawa is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Salary : $60,382 - $84,531