Public Relations Coordinator

The City of Wheaton is currently seeking a strategic and forward-thinking Public Relations (PR) Coordinator who can effectively convey City correspondence to our resident base and the public. Reporting to the Public Information Officer, this position develops and coordinates public relations information in accordance with the City’s missions and objectives, and uses multiple platforms; including the City’s website, social media and print materials, to share consistent and pertinent City communications.

Essential Job Functions:

Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Gather information, write and distribute the monthly City newsletter.
• Write and design weekly email newsletter with timely content for each edition.
• Gather facts, news and information about the City from departments, boards and commissions, city staff, etc., and distribute it through media releases, City’s website, social media and other appropriate media. Write/rewrite information to ensure a consistent voice across platforms using plain language and AP Style.
• Design print projects and layouts; coordinate the production, mailing and distribution of external and internal materials printed in-house and by outside vendors.
• Work with City departments to develop campaigns to promote City programs/services. Recommend strategies for best reaching key audiences.
• Develop City departmental reports or brochures as assigned.
• Regularly update website, Including content for the news section, images for City’s website, events for City calendar
• Assist with the City’s social media initiatives and create new content for social media platforms.
• Attend City Council Planning Session meetings (held twice monthly) and manage Zoom during meetings.
• Write speeches and design multimedia presentations for Mayor or City staff, as assigned
• Assist Municipal Producer with various video programs for CWC10 and the City’s website.
• Work with video staff to promote new programming
• Maintain Communications Department photo library, and archive of Planning Session Minutes.
• Stay current with best practices, technology and trends in government communication through participation in peer organizations (i.e. 3CMA, NAGC)
• Recommend new technologies or methods for communicating with audiences.
• Create graphics consistent with City branding and style guide
• Create infographics and multimedia for distributing on social media and for Video Division.
• Assist City Departments in creating templates and materials to match City branding.
• Assist in monitoring City’s social media accounts and provide responses to inquiries.
• Assist PIO in responding to emergencies and/or monitoring social media after-hours if necessary.

Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism or related field, or 4 years of experience in Public Relations or related field. Proficiency with Microsoft suite, graphic design programs (InDesign, Photoshop) and Content Management Systems (CMS), AP Style writing, and on-camera experience/interviewing preferred. Other combinations of education and experience, which could provide the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform this job, may be considered. A Valid Driver’s License is required.

Salary: The starting salary for this position is $67,454. The City of Wheaton also offers a competitive benefit package including excellent health insurance plans, participation in Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF), and a comprehensive wellness program.

To Apply: Interested candidates should submit a completed application and/or resume to careers@wheaton.il.us.

The City of Wheaton is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Please contact the Human Resources Department if you require assistance applying.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $67,454.00 - $87,688.00 per year

Benefits:

• Commuter assistance
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance