Parks and Public Relations Specialist

Company Description

Incorporated in 1957, the Town of Clarkdale operates under the council-manager form of government. The Town Council consists of the Mayor and four Council Members, all elected at large to serve staggered four-year terms. A Vice Mayor is chosen internally by a vote of the Council every two years. The Town Manager is appointed by the Town Council. The Town Council also appoints the Town Attorney and Town Magistrate.

The Town employs approximately 58 employees and its Fiscal Year 2025 budget is $43 million with a five-year capital improvement plan budget of $19.3 million. Clarkdale provides residents with an array of municipal services, including planning, permitting, zoning, economic development, special events, parks and recreation, public safety, utilities, and public works. The organization also provides financial, human resources, risk management, information technology, and emergency management functions for the Town.

DESCRIPTION: Performs administrative and public information duties in support of the Parks and Recreation Department under the direct supervision of the Parks and Recreation Manager. This position coordinates and executes communications and public relations efforts for the department and Town, including digital content, media coordination, public outreach materials, and community messaging, while also supporting parks operations, programs, and events.

This role regularly engages with residents, visitors, media, and internal stakeholders and represents the Town in a highly visible, public-facing capacity requiring sound judgment, professionalism, and discretion. The position provides infrequent, backup front-desk coverage as part of a shared administrative team model and will require occasional evening, weekend, and holiday work.

This is an execution-focused specialist role responsible for independently carrying out assigned programs, communications, and special projects within established policies, budgets, and strategic direction set by Town leadership.

CLASSIFICATION
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Positions in this class are characterized by having abilities to handle a variety of tasks and interactions. An employee successful in this position performs duties efficiently under supervision. Job functions require the ability to think independently, use discretion and good judgment, apply good customer service skills, and to follow and carry out written and verbal direction. This is a full-time FLSA non-exempt part-time “at will” position with full benefits.

The hourly range for this position is $20.74 - $33.19/hour depending on experience. Highly qualified candidates may start above the minimum. Eligible employees must participate in the Arizona State Retirement (ASRS) which includes a 100% Town match.

Essential functions and duties may be modified at any time at management’s discretion. Typical duties may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Management of social media, website, and newsletters.
• Media interaction and press release creation and dissemination.
• Ensures public-facing information project accuracy and tone.

• Event planning and on-site execution.
• Highest level of customer service supporting inquiries and requests from the public.
• Facility rental support.
• Verde River at Clarkdale operations.
• Trails Master Plan and Volunteer Program coordination.
• Special projects as assigned.

• Parks and Recreation Commission support.
• Clark Memorial Library, Historical Society, and Museum liaison.
• Facilitate working groups, interaction with elected officials, and coordination with internal stakeholders.

• Grant coordination and applications.
• Record keeping and reporting.
• Facility rentals and contracts.
• Customer inquiries and issue resolution.
• Town Strategic and General Plan implementation.

Perform other duties as needed or assigned.

Education and/or Experience

• Minimum of high school or equivalent.
• Experience in local government, public agencies, or public-facing…