COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

JOB
This dynamic position provides agency-wide writing, editing, communications, education and events support to ensure clear, consistent and effective messaging across all internal and external platforms. The Communications Specialist serves as the department’s primary writer/editor, supporting advertising, education, outreach, events, public relations and social marketing initiatives through the development, refinement and distribution of high-quality content. The position works collaboratively with the Creative Team, Education & Outreach Team and other departments to support agency-wide communications needs and advance the Authority’s mission. This position reports to the Marketing Communications Supervisor and requires reliability and accountability in all aspects of the defined role.

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
The duties and responsibilities provided are focused on the key areas of communications content development, editing, digital publishing, and education and outreach support. The following are illustrative and not exhaustive. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Serves as the primary writer and editor for the department, writing, editing and proofreading short-, medium-, and long-form content for a wide range of platforms and audiences.Develops and edits content for the agency website (swa.org), intranet (REEM SharePoint site), social media, marketing publications (brochures, flyers, postcards, fact sheets, graphics), advertising (print, digital, billboards, transit, paid placement articles), video and audio scripts, event displays, and other communications materials.Develops and edits content for internal and external newsletters, including but not limited to Disposal Dialogue and Waste Matters.Develops and edits news releases, media materials and supporting communications content in coordination with the department manager.Ensures all written content adheres to brand standards, messaging guidelines, accessibility best practices, and plain-language principles.Reviews content developed by others and provides edits, recommendations, and guidance to improve clarity, consistency, tone, and accuracy.Supports the Creative Team by providing finalized, production-ready content and supportive creative assets for use in graphic design, web design, video, and other communications materials.Collaborates closely with Graphics & Web Design Specialists and Media Producer to ensure content is accurate, complete, and aligned with project goals prior to design and production.Assists the Education & Outreach Team with writing and editing educational materials, ensuring compliance with applicable state educational standards.Provides writing and editorial support for agency-wide initiatives, campaigns, and special projects as assigned.Provides support to the Creative Team’s Media Producer during live public meetings and events in the auditorium, other SWA facilities, and offsite locations.Posts and monitors content on agency social media platforms, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and consistency, and in accordance with established policies and procedures.Creates and publishes Facebook events and other platform-specific content to promote agency events and initiatives.Represents the Authority at community events, as assigned, providing information to the public and supporting outreach objectives.Assists the Events Coordinator with event setup and breakdown, including displays, materials, and logistical support.Supports the Education & Outreach Team during facility tours by serving as a tail guide, as needed.Maintains organized files, templates, and documentation to support efficient content development and reuse.Participates in project planning meetings and coordinates with team members to meet deadlines and priorities.Maintains knowledge of communications best practices, trends, and accessibility standards through ongoing professional development.Performs other duties as necessary and assigned. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITY The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Excellent writing, editing and proofreading skills with strong attention to detail.Strong knowledge of AP Stylebook standards and the ability to apply them consistently across a variety of written communications.Strong understanding of brand voice, messaging consistency and content standards.Ability to translate complex, technical or regulatory information into clear, concise and audience-appropriate content.Ability to work collaboratively with all agency departments, including customer information services, engineering and environmental science professionals.Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with content management systems, social media platforms and basic design workflows.Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment and maintain accountability for assigned projects.Strong interpersonal and communication skills when working with internal staff, external partners and the public.Ability to maintain discretion when handling sensitive or confidential information.

SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those an employee will encounter and must be able to successfully perform for this job. They are not exclusive of all the tasks the employee may encounter while performing the responsibilities of the position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.This position is performed in a typical office environment and is quiet and climate controlled. The position is performed in an office environment and the employee is routinely required to sit, stand, walk, reach and use hands to touch, handle, or feel and talk and hear; stoop, kneel and crouch. May be required to lift objects up to 25 pounds and of awkward shape, such as cameras and tripods, or other audio-visual equipment. The employee may be required to visit solid waste management facilities and attend meetings, presentations or events at various locations, including occasional evenings or weekends.