Communication Specialist

APPLICATIONS CLOSE – MONDAY, MARCH 15, 2021

THE COMMUNITY

Roseburg is situated at the heart of the Hundred Valleys of the Umpqua in scenic, Southwestern Oregon. On Interstate 5, it is 67 miles south of Eugene, and 123 miles north of the California border. Traveling by State Highway 38/138 or 42, Roseburg is approximately 80 miles inland from the Pacific coastal communities of Reedsport and Coos Bay. Highway 138 continues east from the city along the North Umpqua River. A 79 mile drive to Diamond Lake puts you at the summit of the Oregon Cascades and just another 20 miles to Crater Lake National park. The elevation is 465 feet, and features a mild, fair seasonal climate. Winters are cool without much freezing and provide most of the rainfall that brings blossom\-filled springs. A warming trend begins in April and May, continuing into the summery days of July and August. Fall weather is pleasant and crisp, producing brilliant leaf colors in late October. The Hundred Valleys of Umpqua have been compared geographically and climatologically with Italy and Southern France. Extremes of heat and cold are rare. The summer humidity is low and snowfall is rare on the valley floor. The normal growing season is 217 days. Roseburg enjoys one of the lowest average wind velocities in the United States. Roseburg is the county seat and largest city in Douglas County. The population is 24,915 with an urban daytime population of approximately 60,000\. Roseburg is the hub of retail, government activity and medical services for Central Douglas County. The City is served by Roseburg School District \#4, which has an excellent reputation and community support. Umpqua Community College is 5 miles north of the City and offers a varied curriculum with extensive adult education and community oriented classes. Multiple locations at the college are available for cultural activities, and there is a thriving community theater group with its own venue in a city park. The city boasts numerous park areas, including tennis courts, soccer and ball fields, a 9\-hole golf course, skate park, disc golf course, dog park and walking trails. Roseburg is the location of chose for many who seek a high quality living environment at a reasonable prices. Various community events, including Graffiti Week, Art and Wine Festivals and Music on the Half Shell, among others, are held throughout the year for local residents and tourists. There are numerous shopping opportunities from specialty shops in historic downtown to nationwide chain stores. Housing is available in various price ranges. Roseburg’s economy has diversified in recent years while still retaining strong ties to its natural resource base. Efforts to bring clean industries and new jobs to the area have been fruitful and are continuing through support by a coalition of government agencies and funding. In recent years, the retirement and senior population has grown considerably, and various residential facilities have been constructed to meet the needs of this segment of the population. Local wineries are an expanding area of economic development with many being recognized in national and international competitions. Umpqua Community College built the Southern Oregon Wine Institute as a center for classes, a training winery and activity center to prepare students for jobs in the industry and to function as a research resource industry for all of Southern Oregon.

THE MUNICIPAL ORGANIZATION

The City of Roseburg is a home rule, full service city, operating under the Council/City Manager form of government. The Mayor is elected at large for a 2\-year term and 8 Council members are elected, two from each City Ward, for a 4\-year term. The City Manager and Municipal Judge work directly for the City Council. The City Manager supervises all City employees.

There are 170 City employees providing a full range of City services. There are three bargaining groups, International Association of Firefighters (IAFF), International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), and Roseburg Police Employees Association (RPEA), along with management employees. The City consists of 10\.6 square miles with an annual total budget of $73,631,621 and a General Fund budget of $32,780,068\.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Essential competencies of this job are described under the headings below. They may be subject to change at any time. The omission of specific statements of duties, does not exclude them from the position, if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee, and may be changed by the employer at any time.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions, providing that an accommodation(s) does not create an undue hardship for the employer, remove an essential job function, and/or, create a direct safety threat to the individual, or others.

THE POSITION

The Communications Specialist works under the general direction of the Assistant City Manager/City Recorder, who participates in the establishment of major objectives and reviews work for effectiveness and results obtained. Independence of action is stressed. This is an exempt position subject to the City's Personnel Policies, Employee Handbook and Management Pay Plan.

The Communications Specialist is responsible for implementing a comprehensive strategic communication plan, including but not limited to media relations, website content and writing and designing printed communications. Responsible for web\-based publications for the City and for internal communication systems that help promote City employee communications. Responsible for community engagement by managing the development and communication of information that is designed to keep the community informed of the City's services, programs and accomplishments. May provide work guidance or direction to entry level employees, interns, volunteers and/or community service workers.

DUTIES

• Represents the City in negotiations with print firms and other vendors for special projects.
• Administers the City’s website in concert with the Information Technology (IT) Department, ensuring accuracy of content and that it is being kept current and relevant, as well as the City’s image, user\-friendliness and formatting of the website.
• Troubleshoots problems and inefficiencies within the assigned web communications.
• Manages planning research, writing and editing, art direction printing and distribution of public information materials.
• Develops, plans, researches, writes, edits and coordinates production and distribution of the City Connection publication.
• Assists and coordinates internal and external public image efforts that promote the City.
• Maintains positive City image and counteracts negative impressions.
• Leads media relations efforts by communicating with media, answering questions, as well as developing story concepts, writing press releases and providing needed public relations.
• Manages and maintains the various social media accounts and archiving software maintained by the City.
• Identifies equity and inclusion issues, while developing and implementing strategies to mitigate them.
• Understands and collaborates effectively with a variety of staff and the public from diverse cultural, social, economic and education backgrounds.
• Works under direction of the City Manager and collaboratively with the Mayor and City Council with regards to public relations.
• Manages and oversees community relations programs.
• Provides information regarding policies and procedures to the public.
• Plans and coordinates development and communication of information that is designed to keep the community informed of the City’s services, programs and accomplishments.
• Recruits for community participation in public meetings, City events and activities and other affairs for local government.
• Works effectively with all departments to aid in their communication efforts.
• Identifies grant opportunities and writes grants as appropriate.
• Supports departments in grant writing and administration.
• Independently manages special projects as assigned by the City Manager.
• Serves on various internal committees and subcommittees.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS \& ABILITIES

• Comprehensive understanding of governmental policies and procedures.
• Working knowledge of City government structure, as well as the roles of other government agencies as they related to the City.
• Working knowledge of computer operating systems in a Windows\-based environment, Microsoft applications, photo editing and document design programs, as well as webpage and social media trends.
• Knowledge of basic accounting principles, basic budgeting procedures and government procurement techniques.
• Working knowledge of modern office practices and procedures, filing processes, maintenance of official records and original documents, and public records disclosure and retention guidelines.
• Computer knowledge including; word processing, database, spreadsheet, email and various social media applications.
• Familiarity with networked copy machine with scanning and printing features, multi\-line phone and other communication devices, internet and intranet.
• Expertise and experience handling sensitive and confidential issues.
• Possession of excellent computer skills, superb written and verbal communication skills and strong organizational skills.
• Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing or other communication capabilities, which permits the employee to communicate effectively.
• Hand\-eye coordination is necessary to operate computers and various pieces of office equipment.
• Excellent team building skills and ability to work independently with limited supervision.
• Ability to prioritize workload and meet tight time lines, self\-initiate, set goals, organize, plan and coordinate projects, establish procedures and anticipate and implement changes as needed.
• Creative abilities and the ability to maintain a positive outlook.
• Ability to work with, and relate to, diverse constituencies.
• Ability to be flexible (open\-minded) and highly adaptable to change.
• Ability to make independent decisions and exercise judgement consistent with appropriate policies, procedures and techniques.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive and cooperative working relationships with other employees, public and private officials, and the general public.
• Ability to read, understand, interpret and apply provisions of procedures, laws and technical documents.
• Ability to recognize, analyze and recommend workable solutions to problems.
• Ability to proofread material rapidly and accurately, checking for several details simultaneously.
• Sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes, which permits the employee to complete the required duties of the job.
• Ability to be self\-motivated, work under pressure and handle stressful situations with minimal supervision.
• Sufficient vision or other powers of observation which permits the employee to complete the required job duties.

WORK STANDARDS

• Speak and act truthfully.
• Conduct oneself with integrity, morality, character, and trustworthiness.
• Exhibit self\-control.
• Detail\-oriented, thorough when completing work tasks.
• Ability to accept supervision, constructive criticism and calmly and effectively process high stress situations.
• Reliable, responsible, and dependable.
• Willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.
• Independence of action is stressed.

EDUCATION, CERTIFICATION \& EXPERIENCE

Education and experience requirements listed are minimum standards. Other equivalent combination of education, certifications, training, and experience may be considered.

Education: Bachelor’s degree in journalism, marketing, communication, business, or related field.

Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience working in a position with similar responsibility.

Any equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job may be considered.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS \& CERTIFICATIONS

Requires possession of a valid driver's license by date of hire. New employees establishing resident status in the State of Oregon must obtain an Oregon driver's license within 30 days (ORS 807\.020 (1\)).

Must successfully pass a criminal history background check.

WORKING CONDITIONS

The City of Roseburg is committed to complying fully with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Oregon’s Disability Accommodation and Discrimination laws. We are also committed to ensuring equal opportunity in employment for qualified persons with disabilities. The City of Roseburg will make reasonable efforts to accommodate a qualified applicant or employee with a known disability, unless such accommodation creates an undue hardship on the City of Roseburg’s operations, or a safety risk to employee or coworkers, or removes an essential job function. Employees should request an accommodation as soon as it becomes apparent that a reasonable accommodation may be necessary, to enable the employee to perform the essential duties of a position, or to participate in the employment process. To discuss an accommodation request, please contact John VanWinkle, Human Resources Director.

While performing the duties of this job; work is performed primarily indoors in mostly office settings, with a noise level that is usually quiet; at times work may be performed outside with a noise level and weather which may vary. May require bending, hearing voice and telephone conversation, seeing, keyboarding, sitting and standing for extended periods of time. May be required to perform a full range of motion with lifting and/or carrying supplies, materials, equipment and/or items weighing up to 25 pounds. On occasion, may have to work long hours in emergency situations. May be exposed to moving vehicles and equipment.

The factors described herein, are representative of, but not all\-inclusive of, those that must be met by an individual to successfully perform as a Communications Specialist.

BENEFIT SUMMARY

The City of Roseburg provides a comprehensive benefit package to employees including Medical, Vision, Dental, Long Term Disability, Life Insurance and various voluntary benefits including MASA Medical Transport Solutions and Aflac. The City participates in the State of Oregon Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) and currently pays the entire contribution on behalf of employees. All full\-time employees working over 20 hours per week are eligible for medical benefits the first of the month following their date of employment. Links to the complete benefits resource guide can be found at: https://www.cityofroseburg.org/departments/human\-resources/employee\-benefits.

Insurance Benefits:

• Medical, vision and dental benefits for employee and family, paid at 100% by the City with the opportunity to buy\-up to a lower deductible plan.
• Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance – policy value of $25,000 paid by the City
• Long\-term disability insurance provided by the City of Roseburg
• Health Reimbursement Account (HRA\-VEBA) contributions provided by the City

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Additional Benefits:

• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• The City has a fully equipped fitness center available 24 hours a day
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

How to Apply: Complete an application form available via one of the following methods.

In\-Person: City of Roseburg – Third Floor

Administration/Human Resources Office

900 SE Douglas Avenue, Roseburg, OR 97470

Electronically: Download at https://www.cityofroseburg.org/departments/human\- resources/employment

Telephone Job Line: (541\) 492\-7010 (voice message listing openings)

Administration/HR Office (541\) 492\-6866

Submit completed application to Human Resources by the closing date listed in the job announcement. Applications must be received or postmarked no later than 5:00 p.m. on the closing date. All required documents should be presented with the application. Resumes are accepted in addition to, not in lieu of, the City of Roseburg application form. Faxed applications are not acceptable.

Selection Process: Applications are thoroughly reviewed and screened by the Human Resources Office. Since these are competitive selection processes, applicants whose backgrounds appear to most closely match the needs of the particular vacancy will be considered. Once the screening is complete, Human Resources notifies all candidates of their status. This process can take from one to four weeks after the closing date. Due to the number of applicants and the limited number of job opportunities, not all applicants proceed in the recruitment process.

*Equal Opportunity Employer*

Job Type: Full\-time

Pay: $4,871\.00 \- $6,235\.00 per month

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person