Outreach​/Community Engagement Specialist

The hiring salary range is $60,060.20 - $82,585.70 annually, commensurate with experience.

Telework eligibility is determined by county policy and the approval of the hiring department.

Charles County Government is seeking an experienced Outreach/Community Engagement Specialist to coordinate Recreation, Parks and Tourism’s community engagement and outreach activities, effectively engaging with the public and building relationships to ensure the needs and preferences of the community are being met. Under the supervision of the Media & Communications Project Manager, develops, monitors, coordinates and supports the outreach efforts of Recreation, Parks and Tourism, maintains communications to support effective community engagement, including various print publications, social media, web and e-communications networks;

and performs related functions to increase community outreach and engagement.

• Represents Recreation, Parks and Tourism in local organizations, develops contacts, serves as liaison to more effectively engage the public.

• Attends community and neighborhood events on behalf of Recreation, Parks and Tourism to connect with the community and hear concerns, provide information about department offerings, and advocate for broader participation.

• Coordinates, facilitates and assists with scheduling engagement activities including surveys, mailings, forums and meetings, online initiatives and other outreach.

• Actively monitors and utilizes social media and online tools to promote community projects and engagement initiatives, and coordinates responses for online discussions.

• Reviews and evaluates existing engagement strategies, systems and activities, and makes enhancements to improve effectiveness.

• Ensures that the needs of culturally and economically diverse communities are met and works to identify and eliminate existing barriers to participation.

• Collaborates with the Media & Communications Project Manager to plan, develop and deliver coordinated communications about engagement activities through a broad range of communications channels.

• Stays abreast of community developments related to the need for informed and engaged community participation.

• Assist in creating, editing, and distributing engaging content for a range of media formats – website, print, news releases, brochures, social media, e-newsletters, etc.

• Assist in creating the Department’s quarterly GUIDE publication, including compiling content from throughout department, working directly with graphic designer and print vendors on proofing and printing process.

• Coordinates marketing implementation with other departments, as needed.

• Collaborates with divisions and other departments on special projects, displays, and other outreach events.

• Takes photographs and maintains department photo library.

• Responds to inquiries from internal clients and the public via email, online form submissions, social media, and telephone.

• Performs data entry, compiles information, and sends monthly reports as directed.

• Performs other job duties as assigned.

Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education, experience and training. Two (2) years of progressively responsible experience working in community engagement and public affairs; or an equivalent combination of education, experience and training.

Must possess a valid driver’s license.

Work is subject to frequent interruptions and deadlines and requires tailoring and delivering work products and services to meet the needs of diverse groups.

• Knowledge of Charles County Government goals and priorities, with emphasis on…