Communications Specialist - Comms

SUMMARY OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESThe Communications Specialist strengthens communication for the City of Laurel by providing dedicated writing, digital engagement, and multimedia support within the Department of Communications. This position produces clear and engaging content that keeps residents, businesses and organizations connected to City programs and services, while supporting marketing communications for Laurel TV and Podcast City Studios. This position also supports our implementation and use of Indigov for internal and external communications.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following.· Supports the Department's communications mission through creation of resident-facing content including newsletter articles, press releases, announcements, promotional materials, and strategic messaging.· Supports marketing and promotion for Laurel TV and the City podcast room, with emphasis on Podcast City Studios membership packages and programs.· Assist with television and podcast production support such as scripting, basic editing, captioning, scheduling, and coordination of equipment use.· Gather stories, photos, and video from City departments through the Communications Request Form to ensure timely coverage and proactive planning.· Provide administrative and backup front desk coverage to maintain continuity of operations and responsiveness to the public.· Support long-term and multi-phase projects that expand the reach, transparency, and accessibility of municipal communications.· Keeps immediate supervisor and designated others fully and accurately informed concerning work progress, present and potential problems, and makes suggestions for new or improved ways of addressing such problems.· Willingly and cooperatively accepts other related duties and responsibilities as assigned.SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES - NoneMINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - The minimum eligibility requirements for this position are as follows:EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE -. Bachelor's degree preferred in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field. Minimum of two (2) years of professional work experience in communications, public relations, marketing, or comparable setting. Municipal or public-sector experience is preferred.CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS - Must possess or have the ability to obtain, within six months of hire, the Incident Command System ICS-100 and IS-700 Certifications.Computer Skills - Ability to operate a computer terminal or Personal Computer. Proficiency in Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook), experience with Canva for graphic design and visual content development. Working knowledge of modern digital platforms and ability to learn City systems quickly. Ability to learn and apply other office software and automated office procedures.MUST BE ABLE TO PASS A PRE-EMPLOYMENT INCLUDING DRUG SCREEN, AND A CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK.The City of Laurel is an Equal Opportunity Employer.CLOSING DATE: September 4, 2026