Job description statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this job title; not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required; and subject to change, as approved by the City Manager.

Job Summary

Employees in this class are under administrative direction of the City Manager. Work is performed in public relations, marketing, and community engagement projects. Responsibilities require a high degree of emotional intelligence in the day-to-day work, decision making, and problem solving.

Examples of work performed: Maintains City social media communications and accounts in conjunction with individual City departments; manages and creates City website content including the posting of articles, pages, photographs, videos, events, media, and related materials; develops articles and edits content for newspapers, journals, and digital media platforms; prepares and writes applicable news releases; produce videos (film, direct and edit) promoting the City; fields and directs responses to media-related inquiries; responds to non-personnel related public information requests in a timely and consistent manner with State of Tennessee and City policies and procedures; serves as liaison to various civic organizations; serves as City's representative when requested to do so at civic functions and special events; implements community engagement programs and special projects as directed by the City Manager; coordinates special City events; provides suggestions, advice, and support to City Manager and department heads; performs related work as required.

Required Knowledge and Abilities

Knowledge of media operations and public relations functions

Knowledge of writing and editing skills necessary to prepare public relations materials

Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, web analytics and various social media applications

Knowledge of publishing/design software and pertinent specialty software

Knowledge of professional applications of research and writing skills

Knowledge of social media platforms and management

Ability to gain thorough knowledge of City services and departmental programs

Ability to present information clearly and concisely to various audiences

Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing

Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with the public and co-workers

Ability to manage highly confidential information with appropriate discretion

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with a major in journalism, communications, marketing, political science, or related field required. At least two years of experience in journalism or public relations is also required. Must possess a valid Tennessee driver's license.

Essential Functions

This position includes sedentary as well as non-sedentary functions. Tasks include those associated with the use of office-related tools, such as computers and peripherals. Other tasks may require navigating locations, including outdoors and possibly in inclement weather in order to produce work material; frequently communicating via telephone, email, and other electronic/digital devices and platforms; attending functions outside of standard business hours; and preparing/providing public speaking engagements to a variety of groups and organizations, including City Council.

Full Time Benefits Summary

Medical
Dental
Vision
Paid Life Insurance
Health Savings Account
Flexible Spending Account
Voluntary Benefits
Pension and 401k Retirement Savings
Paid Holidays
Paid Sick time

City of Cookeville is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Hiring decisions are administered without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

Reasonable Accommodations

Qualified individuals with known disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain state or local laws. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, please contact the Human Resources department at (931) 520-5289.

Must be able to pass limited background check.