COMMUNITY RELATIONS COORDINATOR

Under general supervision, fosters positive relationships between the organization and the public by developing, managing, and distributing clear and engaging communications. Coordinates and disseminations public information, develops and implements community engagement strategies, and develops messaging to support the organization’s goals; serves as a representative of the assigned Office.  

Board of Supervisors Office

1. Develops and maintains strong relationships with media outlets, community organizations, and business representatives to promote coverage of government activities, initiatives, and accomplishments, fostering greater community involvement. 
2. Coordinates and oversees the County’s social media platforms, ensuring timely updates and engaging content to enhance public interaction.
3. Designs and executes compelling print and digital communications that align with the county’s branding and messaging standards.
4. Creates and publishes a countywide newsletter and other communications such as “Polk County Future”, show casing government programs and services.
5. Develops and implements community outreach strategies to raise public awareness of county government initiatives, programs, and services.
6. Prepares a variety of specialized documents, including confidential correspondence, memorandums, press releases, and statistical reports, utilizing advanced word processing, spreadsheet, and database software. 
7. Identifies opportunities to enhance the County’s brand and organizes outreach community events to strengthen public relations and engagement.
8. Develop strategies and executes plans to promote and uphold a positive image of the County government through proactive communication and engagement.
9. Performs related duties as required.

Treasurer’s Office

1. Develops and maintains strong relationships with media outlets, community organizations, and business representatives to promote Treasurer’s Office activities and inform the citizens of Polk County about office practices and procedures. 
2. Maintains the Treasurer’s Office website and social media platforms, including developing and maintaining “how-to” videos for how to properly complete required documentation, prepare for transactions, and complete transactions online. Develops strategies to increase awareness of statutory requirements, policies, procedures, and services.
3. Responds promptly and professionally to social media posts and emails from Polk County citizens, ensuring satisfaction and resolution of inquiries; develops polls and surveys to gather community feedback on service performance and areas needing improvement. 
4. Ensures consistent design and tone in messaging across all Treasurer’s Office programs, including Vehicle, Property Tax, and Cash Management, to accurately reflect the mission, vision, values, and brand strategy; promotes the efficiencies of the IowaTaxAndTags.org online payment site for tag renewals and property tax payments.
5. Prepares various specialized departmental documents, including confidential correspondence, memorandums, press releases, and statistical reports; designs high-impact print and digital materials featuring graphics, photography, and videography, leveraging the latest trends and technology for improved communication.
6. Responds to Freedom of Information Act requests as needed. 
7. Performs related duties as required.

• Knowledge of the principals and practices of public relations, communication, and journalism.
• Knowledge of strategic planning principles and procedures.
• Knowledge of social media platforms including LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Pinterest. 
• Knowledge of Adobe Creative software including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. 
• Skill in designing, coordinating, and evaluating public relations activities, communications, and campaigns/events.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities and deadlines. 
• Ability to design and execute communications and public relations activities.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to write and prepare news releases, letters, and reports with correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation. 
• Ability to respond effectively to requests for information and/or official statements of the Treasurer. 
• Ability to use Microsoft Office software including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, and Outlook. 
• Ability to analyze problems and arrive at logical solutions.
• Ability to effectively interact with sensitivity with persons from diverse, cultural, socioeconomic, educational, racial, ethnic, and professional backgrounds and persons of all ages and lifestyles. 
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with County officials, employees and representatives from other agencies and the public, fostering a collaborative and professional work environment. 

• Bachelor’s Degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Social Marketing or a related field, and 
• Four years of responsible experience in communications or public relations, and
• Any equivalent combination of training and experience that will have provided the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Special Requirements:

• A criminal background check is required.
• A drug screen is required prior to a final offer of employment.

Polk County is committed to providing a diverse work environment that is representative, at all levels, of the citizens we serve. Equal opportunities are available to all applicants and current employees regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship status, mental or physical disability, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.

Polk County believes that diversity, equity, and inclusion is critical to our success in serving and empowering our community and to our continued commitment to be one of the nation's most innovative public institutions. 

Salary : $83,799