Communications Specialist; Temporary

Description

The temporary Communications Specialist will provide effective support for marketing and communications projects, public relations efforts and electronic media initiatives while other staff are on planned leave. This position will ensure timely development and distribution of accurate, engaging and relevant information to residents, businesses, media outlets and employees in a manner that reflects the City of Plymouth’s high professional standards.

Hours are typically during the business day, up to 40 hours per week for up to six months (April – September 2026). Remote work may be considered for highly qualified candidates.

• Provide professional, responsive customer service to internal and external audiences.
• Work as part of a communications team to triage requests for services from multiple departments to ensure high quality and responsive day‑to‑day communications support.
• Develop, write, edit and proofread content for a variety of mediums and audiences.
• Create, post and update content for the city website, social media platforms and intranet, as directed. Champion and promote digital accessibility and inclusivity.
• Support the production of city publications and marketing materials.
• Assist with basic graphic design using Adobe Creative Suite for digital and print communications, ensuring adherence to accessibility requirements and branding standards.
• Provide basic photography and/or limited videography support for city events and programs.
• Support communications efforts for city events, public meetings and community engagement initiatives, which may include occasional evening or weekend work.
• Organize and maintain communications resources such as photo libraries, promotional materials and printed handouts.
• Complete project‑based assignments and other related duties as needed/assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, graphic design or a related field, or an equivalent combination of related education and experience.
• One year of related experience.
• Experience working with the Adobe Creative Suite, including InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator, as well as knowledge of graphic design and layout principles.
• Experience with communication techniques and practices using a variety of tools, such as website, social media, digital notification platforms, newsletters, print and digital marketing/advertising, media releases, video, photography, special events and spoken words.
• Basic photography and photo editing skills.
• Strong writing skills, a high‑level understanding of journalism and media techniques, and knowledge of the Associated Press Style.
• Strong verbal communication skills, including the ability to present ideas coherently and persuasively.
• Ability and desire to work effectively as a team player; valuing diversity, cooperation, collaboration, and mutual respect at all levels.

• Three or more years of related communications experience, with local government experience highly preferred.
• Experience with various social media platforms in a professional setting, experience producing social media reels, as well as knowledge of emerging platforms and trends.
• Video production experience.

• Very frequent (often required to perform the job): sitting or standing, stationary desk or bench work with neck bent forward, handling objects (grasping, turning or otherwise using hands or hand), repetitive hand motion (typing, using computer).
• The employee must be able to lift/carry items from 0 – 5 pounds from 0 – 6 feet. Employee must be able to lift items such as files, binders, and office equipment.