Communication Specialist

GENERAL SUMMARY

The Communications Specialist supports the City of Dubuque’s mission to provide responsive, efficient, and comprehensive public service by developing and implementing communication strategies that inform, engage, and build trust with residents, businesses, and other stakeholders. This position assists with the creation and distribution of clear, accessible, and creative communications across multiple platforms, including digital, print, and in-person channels, with a primary focus on social media management, graphic design, marketing, and multimedia storytelling.

Work in this classification involves performing a variety of professional communications and administrative duties requiring the exercise of independent judgment, initiative, and discretion. The Communications Specialist reports to the Public Information Officer and collaborates closely with staff across City departments to support organizational priorities and communication needs.

• Design and produce visual materials, including graphics, infographics, brochures, presentations, reports, and other communication assets in accordance with City brand standards.
• Manage design projects from concept through final production.
• Coordinate printing and mailing projects, including obtaining bids, awarding contracts, and managing the proofing and production process.
• Maintain consistency with City communication standards, messaging, and brand identity.
• Assist in the development and implementation of communication and marketing plans that support organizational priorities and promote City programs, projects, services, and events.
• Develop content for digital advertising, print advertising, radio, and other paid media.
• Monitor campaign performance, analyze results, and provide recommendations for improvement.
• Manage City social media accounts, including content creation, scheduling, responding to inquiries, and monitoring analytics and trends to improve engagement and effectiveness.
• Write, edit, and proofread content for newsletters, websites, social media platforms, press materials, and other communication products.
• Draft news releases, media advisories, and public statements.
• Assist in responding to media inquiries and coordinating interviews with City representatives.
• Support crisis and emergency communications efforts as directed.
• Ensure all content is accurate, consistent, inclusive, and written in clear, plain language for diverse audiences.
• Develop communication materials to promote City initiatives, events, and opportunities for public participation.
• Assist with planning and executing public meetings, open houses, and community outreach campaigns.
• Support initiatives that promote transparency, public trust, and two-way communication with residents.
• Assist with website updates and improvements to ensure content is timely, accurate, accessible, and user-friendly.
• Utilize Google Analytics and other tools to track engagement and inform communication strategies.
• Apply website accessibility standards and guidelines (WCAG), including color contrast, luminosity ratios, alt text, and related best practices.
• Assist with photography and video production projects.
• Collaborate with City staff across departments to meet communication needs.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• English Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
• Communications and Media: Knowledge of media and publication production, communication strategies, and dissemination techniques and methods including alternative ways to inform diverse audiences via multiple media.
• Graphic Design: Requires strong graphic design skills, including creating visual assets, managing design projects from concept to final production, and ensuring all materials align with brand standards.
• Marketing: Knowledge of principles and methods for promoting and publicizing services and programs including marketing strategies and tactics.
• Customer and Personal Service: Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services…