HomeMy WebLinkAboutDigital Communications SpecialistCITY OF IOWA CITY - Job Description
Job Class #24-04 FLSA Non-Exempt
Civil Service
Identification
Position Title: Digital Communications Specialist
Department: City Manager’s Office
Division: Communications
Supervisor: Communications Coordinator
Job Summary
Works under the supervision of the Communications Coordinator in the development and support of
centralized digital communications for the City of Iowa City promoting its services, projects, policies
and events. Responsibilities include content management for the City’s website, social media and e-
subscription services.
Job Scope
Provides digital communications and Drupal-based website support in cooperation with other City
departments, ensuring the City maintains an ADA compliant site. Assists Communications Coordinator
with a wide variety of communications duties, performs research, writes news articles, implements new
digital communications initiatives for special projects as assigned, updates intranet, attends ribbons
cuttings and other local events, and manages City social media sites.
Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities
Responsible for daily management of the website and intranet, including writing and integration of
content on the site, file management, data base management, as well as evaluation of links and
accessibility.
Responsible for daily management of the City’s social media sites and implements new digital
communications initiatives for City departments and divisions.
Offers technical support for problems related to the website and social media sites, uploads pages to
the site and integrates applications into the Internet and Intranet sites.
Assists City staff with communications needs to help promote City initiatives, including
implementation of public relations programs using website, social media and other digital
mechanisms.
Assists in development of citywide public surveys and polls.
Assists in all aspects of digital communications, including the City’s website.
Writes website content, media releases, intranet articles and social media content to educate and
promote City programs and events.
Job Class #24-04 Communications
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Maintains and updates current pages on the internet/intranet.
Coordinates design implementation with Communications team staff.
Refreshes website and social media site content to ensure accuracy and timeliness of information
and images.
Responds to requests from staff for website and social media updates and implements new
approved features.
Works closely with City staff to increase interactivity on the sites.
Generates usage and analytic reports as requested by City staff.
Stays current on the latest trends/developments in web development and social media functions for
government entities.
Researches third party solutions and works with vendors on communication efforts.
Conducts self in a manner which promotes and supports diversity and inclusivity in the workplace and
community.
Performs all other related duties as assigned.
Physical and Environmental Conditions
The physical demands and work environment conditions described here are representative of those
that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job and are
encountered while performing those essential functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made
to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger,
handle, or feel; and talk and hear. The employee frequently is required to reach with hands and arms.
The employee is occasionally required to walk or stand. Specific vision abilities required by this job
include close vision.
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Minimum Education, Experience and Certification
Bachelor’s degree from an educational institution accredited by a DOE recognized accreditation body
or equivalent experience in Communications, Marketing, Journalism or related field required. Must
pass criminal background check.
Preferred Education, Experience and Certification
Bachelor’s degree in communications or marketing-related field from an educational institution
accredited by a DOE recognized accreditation body preferred. On the job experience in
communications, marketing, or journalism preferred. Spanish proficiency and demonstrated relevant
experience in digital communications are a plus.
Job Class #24-04 Communications
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Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of Drupal-based website management, social media posts, and news writing. Skills in
listening, written and verbal communications, problem solving, and time management. Ability to read
and understand technical materials and reports. Ability to convey City codes, regulations, and
policies in a user-friendly fashion. Ability to develop and present innovative alternative solutions using
digital communications tools. Ability to manage multiple priorities and complete project assignments
within designated timelines. Ability to work with diverse clientele. Skills in oral and written
communication. Ability to write, edit, organize and work well as part of a team.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of working being performed
by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities,
duties, and skills required of personnel so classified in this position.