Communications Specialist

Communications Specialist

Central Rivers Area Education Agency (Central Rivers AEA)

Location: Iowa
Employment Type: Full-Time, 12-Month Position

Make an Impact Through Communication, Creativity, and Storytelling!

Central Rivers Area Education Agency is seeking a creative, strategic, and innovative Communications Specialist to help tell the story of our agency and the important work happening in the schools and communities we serve.

This position plays an important role in developing and delivering communication and marketing initiatives that promote agency programs, highlight successes, strengthen relationships with our partner school districts, and support the statewide Iowa AEA system. The ideal candidate is a strong writer and communicator with experience in digital marketing, social media, photography, videography, website management, and creative content development.

If you enjoy turning ideas into engaging stories, developing creative communication strategies, and using digital tools to make a meaningful impact, we encourage you to apply!

Key Responsibilities

As the Communications Specialist, you will:

• Develop Communication Strategies: Collaborate with the Director of Creative Services and Communications to plan, develop, implement, and evaluate agency-wide communication and marketing initiatives.
• Create Engaging Content: Develop compelling digital content, marketing campaigns, social media posts, photography, videos, and stories that showcase agency services, school district partnerships, student successes, and behind-the-scenes activities.
• Support School District Communications: Provide direct communications support to partner school districts, including newsletter writing, design assistance, light video production, and social media guidance.
• Manage Websites and Digital Platforms: Play a key role in maintaining and updating the agency's public and staff websites, supporting employees with website content and updates, and maintaining the internal staff intranet.
• Support Internal Communications: Partner with Human Resources and the Business Office on communication needs, including staff photography for directories and identification badges.
• Collaborate Across the Agency: Work with agency leaders and departments to develop communication and marketing materials that align with agency priorities and strategic goals.
• Promote Branding and Accessibility: Guide and mentor staff on agency branding standards, consistent messaging, generative AI best practices, and digital accessibility requirements.
• Build Media Relationships: Prepare news releases, background information, and articles highlighting student events, agency initiatives, and other significant activities.
• Explore New Opportunities: Stay current with emerging communication tools, digital media trends, marketing strategies, and innovative ways to increase awareness of agency services and accomplishments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in marketing, public relations, communications, or a related field.
• Knowledge, experience, and demonstrated ability in writing, communications, marketing strategy, social media, photography/videography, and website development or management.
• Strong verbal, written, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Understanding of technology and its application to communication, marketing, and productivity.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, solve problems, and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated commitment to continuous learning and professional development in communications and digital media.
• Ability to work collaboratively with agency staff, school districts, and external partners.
• Commitment to confidentiality, professionalism, diversity, and respectful communication.

Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered.

What We're Looking For

The successful candidate will be someone who:

• Is a creative thinker with a strong eye for design and storytelling.
• Has excellent writing and editing skills and knows how to tailor messaging to different audiences.
• Enjoys creating engaging content across multiple digital platforms.
• Is comfortable with photography, videography, social media, and website content management.
• Understands the importance of consistent branding, digital accessibility, and effective communication.
• Demonstrates initiative, flexibility, attention to detail, and the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Brings a positive, collaborative attitude and a desire to help others succeed.

Position Details

• Employment Term: 12-month position.
• Compensation: Salary and work year established by the Central Rivers AEA Board.
• Work Environment: Primarily office-based, with opportunities to work throughout the agency and with partner school districts.
• Travel: Travel is required as part of the position. Occasional irregular hours or days may be necessary to support agency and school district events.

About Central Rivers Area Education Agency

Central Rivers Area Education Agency partners with schools, educators, families, and communities to provide services and support that help ensure success for all learners. Our team works collaboratively with school districts to strengthen educational opportunities and make a difference in the lives of students across our region.

Join our team and help share the stories, successes, and impact of Central Rivers AEA!

Central Rivers Area Education Agency is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and fostering an inclusive and respectful work environment.

Pay: $50,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan

Experience:

• Marketing: 2 years (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $50,000 - $60,000