What are the responsibilities and job description for the Communications Specialist - Part-time position at City of Hillsboro?
This recruitment will close after the first 100 applications are received or at the posted closing date, whichever comes first. We encourage interested candidates to apply early.
The City of Hillsboro is seeking a detail-oriented and creative Part-Time Communications Specialist to support the Hillsboro Parks & Recreation (HP&R) team. This role combines digital content creation, print and web design support, content management, and communications coordination to ensure the community stays connected to the programs, services, and events we offer year-round.
This position is ideal for someone who enjoys balancing creativity with organization, thrives in a collaborative environment, and has the technical skills to manage digital and print communications across multiple platforms.
Work Schedule
- This is a part-time position working approximately 20 hours per week.
- Work is performed onsite at the Parks & Recreation Administration Office. Remote work is not available.
- Specific workdays and hours may be flexible, subject to supervisor approval.
Key Responsibilities
Communications & Marketing Support
- Provide ongoing support for a variety of HP&R communications, including storytelling, lead generation, and brand awareness.
- Support social media management, including content creation, publishing, and responding to community comments and questions.
- Support and manage email newsletter production for internal and external audiences.
- Support photography & video recording (social media reels) using a phone and professional camera equipment.
- Write and publish news articles for the City website.
- Help edit all marketing and communications materials for consistency in style, tone, and grammar.
- Assist with website updates, including seasonal information, photo sliders, project updates, and resource links.
- Distribute publications and marketing materials to City facilities, local businesses, senior living facilities, park kiosks, and other designated locations.
- Manage the process, design and formatting of print publications (e.g., Activities Guide, In Full Bloom).
- Collect, monitor, and report data on marketing campaigns, newsletters, website traffic, and social media outreach.
- Enter department requests into Asana for graphic design workflow.
- Maintain and update templates for Parks Administration and facilities.
- Help manage Google Business profiles for parks and facilities (holiday hours, photos, rentals, updates).
- Build and maintain facility and shelter rental profiles on Yelp and other third-party websites.
- Complete training in ADA compliance to ensure accessible communications.
Website Content, Calendar, & Seasonal Activity Updates
- Populate and update the HP&R website calendar with upcoming activities and photos.
- Tag and organize events across webpages for easy public access.
- Redirect calendar items to ActiveNet and/or provide accurate descriptions from the Activities Guide for drop-in activities.
- Support seasonal activity updates three times per year and lead ongoing upkeep and maintenance of calendar items.
- Experience with Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop & InDesign preferred).
- Familiarity with website content management systems and web design.
- Photography and video production skills.
- Experience creating, managing, and publishing social media content.
- Experience with email newsletter systems and content creation.
- Knowledge of print and digital design standards.
- Experience with Microsoft Teams or other collaboration platforms.
- Strong attention to detail with proofreading and editing skills.
- Excellent organizational and time-management abilities.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating as part of a team.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS:
The Part-Time Communications Specialist provides hands-on communications and marketing support for the Parks & Recreation Department. The position coordinates print and digital publications, maintains website and calendar content, creates and schedules social media posts, and supports photography, video, design, and other outreach efforts. Working collaboratively with staff across the department, the Communications Specialist helps ensure public information is timely, accurate, accessible, and consistent with City standards.
JOB QUALIFICATIONS / REQUIREMENTS:
(At time of application and in addition to the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities listed above.)
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, digital media, or a related field, and four (4) years of experience in digital communications, web management, or a related field; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.
LICENSE(S) / CERTIFICATIONS:
- Valid, current Driver’s License and a safe driving record
Why Join Us
Working for the City of Hillsboro means being part of a team that values community, inclusion, and meaningful public service. You’ll have the opportunity to make a direct impact by helping people connect with nature and each other.
We are committed to building a workforce that reflects the community we serve and creating an environment where all employees feel welcomed and supported.
Application Guidelines
- Apply Early: This recruitment will close after the first 100 completed applications are received. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible to be considered.
- Complete Your Application: Please fill out all sections thoroughly and accurately, as resumes and cover letters will not be reviewed. Your application responses are the primary way we assess your qualifications.
- Highlight Your Unique Skills: Take time to clearly describe your relevant experience and accomplishments. Thoughtful, detailed responses help us better understand your skills and how they align with the position.
- Be Authentic: Please ensure your responses reflect your own experience and are written in your own words. We value clear, specific examples that demonstrate your skills and contributions.
Why Work For the City of Hillsboro?
At the City of Hillsboro, we value innovation, inclusion, and collaboration. Our culture encourages professional growth and supports employees who are passionate about making a difference in their community. You’ll find meaningful work, great people, and opportunities to grow your career in public service. We’re committed to supporting employees with a comprehensive package of benefits and resources designed to promote health, well-being, and growth.
When you join our team, you’ll enjoy:
- Bilingual pay incentives
- Free TriMet annual Hop pass and SHARC and Hidden Creek Community Center recreation access for you and your dependents
- Paid time off to volunteer through Hillsboro Helps
- Ongoing professional development and training
- A supportive workplace that values work/life balance and employee wellness
Bilingual Incentive Pay Available
Employees who can demonstrate the ability to speak Spanish, ASL, or any other language spoken by over 10% of the City residents as documented by the most recent U.S. Census, will receive a monthly 3% premium pay. The incentive is only paid on hours in paid status. Proficiency will be determined by a City-administered test.
Commitment to Equity
At the City of Hillsboro, we believe that hiring a workforce that reflects the diverse community we serve is essential to delivering exceptional City services and programs. The City of Hillsboro is committed to creating and supporting an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees to thrive. We value, respect, and empower employees as unique individuals with authentic voices and diverse ideas.
Salary : $38 - $50