What are the responsibilities and job description for the Communications Coordinator position at City of Ocala?
The Communications Coordinator serves as the second-in-command within the City's Public Information Office, assisting the Public Information Officer (PIO) in executing strategic communications, media relations, and public engagement initiatives. This position requires strong leadership, crisis communication skills, and the ability to assume full responsibilities of the PIO in their absence. The Communications Coordinator will play a key role in enhancing the City's public image, ensuring consistent messaging, and fostering relationships with media, stakeholders, and the community. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Assists in developing and implementing comprehensive communication strategies aligned with City priorities.
• Serves as a backup spokesperson, handling media inquiries, composing press releases, and coordinating press conferences.
• Builds and maintains relationships with media representatives to ensure accurate and positive coverage.
• Represents the City at public meetings, civic events, and engagements with community organizations.
• Plans and executes public outreach initiatives, town halls, and special events to promote City programs and services.
• Contributes to the development of digital content, including website updates, social media, newsletters, and video production.
• Ensures consistent branding, messaging, and compliance with City policies across all platforms.
• Supports the PIO in developing and executing crisis communication plans.
• Serves as a key representative in the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) during activations, providing timely and accurate public information.
• Assists in supervising communication staff, interns, or contractors, providing guidance and mentorship.
• Acts as the department lead in the absence of the PIO, making critical communication decisions and ensuring continuity of operations.
• Collaborates with City departments to ensure alignment in messaging and communication strategies.
• Assists in developing and managing the communications budget.
• Monitors and analyzes communication metrics to assess effectiveness and recommend improvements.
• Maintains up-to-date records, reports, and communication plans.
Perform any other related duties as required or assigned.To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty mentioned satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
• Bachelor's degree in public relations, communications, journalism, or marketing.
• Minimum of four (4) years of experience in public relations, media relations, or communications; government or municipal experience preferred.
• Supervisory or leadership experience is a plus.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong writing, editing, and public speaking skills.
• Knowledge of AP style and best practices in media relations.
• Proficiency in social media management, digital marketing, and content creation.
• Ability to handle crisis communication and respond under pressure.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to manage time effectively and meet tight deadlines.
REQUIRED CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
• Must possess a valid Florida Driver's License with an acceptable driving record.SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
This position will directly supervise 0 employees.
This position may indirectly supervise 5 employees.
If applicable, supervisory responsibilities include interviewing, hiring and training employees; planning, assigning and directing work; appraising performance, rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.
ANALYTICAL ABILITY / PROBLEM SOLVING
MODERATELY STRUCTURED. Fairly broad activities using moderately structured procedures with only generally guided supervision.
PLANNING
With regard to general assignments in planning time, method, manner and/or sequence of performance of own work.
CONSIDERABLE RESPONSIBILITY; may also occasionally assist in the planning of work assignments performed by others within a limited area of operation.
DECISION MAKING
Performs work operations which permit opportunity for decision-making of minor importance. FREQUENTLY;
Performs work operations which permit opportunity for decision-making of major importance. FREQUENTLY;
COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Ability to read, analyze, and understand the most complex documents; Ability to respond effectively to the most sensitive inquiries or complaints.
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide numbers. Ability to perform these mathematical skills using money and other forms of measurement.
CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS
Ability to utilize common sense understanding in order to carry out written, oral or diagrammed instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving several known variables furnished in written, oral, or diagram formats.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Under immediate supervision, with SHORT ASSIGNMENTS of work at frequent interval with REGULAR CHECK of work.
MENTAL DEMAND
CLOSE; Operations requiring close and continuous attention for control of operations. Operations requiring intermittent direct thinking to determine or select the most applicable way of handling situations regarding the organization’s operations.
USE OF MACHINES, EQUIPMENT AND/OR COMPUTER
Regular use of complex machines and equipment (desktop/laptop computer and software, road and production machines and equipment, etc.)
ACCURACY
Probable errors of internal scope readily detected in normal course of work by standard check or routine crosscheck within a single department or office. Errors resulting from inaccuracy would create Minor confusion, delay or expense to correct.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Regular contacts with patrons, either within the office or in the field. May also involve occasional self-initiated contacts to patrons. Lack of tact and judgment may result in a limited type of problem for the organization.
EMPLOYEE CONTACT
Contacts of considerable importance within the department or office. Requires tact in discussing problems and presenting data and making recommendations.
SOFTWARE SKILLS REQUIRED
Accounting Basic
Alphanumeric Data Entry Basic
Contact Management Intermediate
Database Basic
Enterprise Resource Planning Basic
Human Resources Systems None
Payroll Systems None
Presentation/PowerPoint Intermediate
Programming Languages None
Spreadsheet Intermediate
Word Processing/Typing Intermediate
ADDITIONAL SOFTWARE SKILLS
Adobe Creative Cloud
Canva Proficiency
OTHER SKILLS
Photography and Videography - Intermediate
PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES
While performing the functions of this job, the employee may be required to:
Stand Regularly
Walk Regularly
Sit Regularly
Use hands to handle or feel Regularly
Reach with hands and arms Occasionally
Climb or balance Never
Stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl Occasionally
Talk or hear Regularly
Taste or smell Never
WEIGHT LIFT REQUIREMENTS
The employee must occasionally lift and/or move: Up to 10 pounds
VISION REQUIREMENT
Specific vision abilities required by this job may include: Color vision (interpreting color software screens or reports; work duties that require the ability to identify and distinguish colors).
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
The following work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Work near moving mechanical parts (spinning shafts, engines, lifts, etc.) Never
Work in high, precarious places (tall structures, bucket lifts, extension ladders, etc.) Never
Fumes or airborne particles (painting, sanding, solvents, flying lint or dust particles, etc.) Never
Toxic or caustic chemicals (including potential for chemical spills, etc.) Never
Outdoor weather conditions (exposure to outdoor heat, cold or inclement weather) Occasionally
Wet or humid conditions (not weather-related, such as greenhouse, carwash, etc.) Never
Extreme cold (not weather-related, such as freezer, cold storage, etc.) Never
Extreme heat not weather-related, such as furnace, kitchen, ovens, etc. where temp is regularly above 100 degrees F) Never
Risk of electrical shock (live electrical wires, equipment that retains power after shutoff) Never
Work with explosives (TNT, dynamite, nitroglycerine or other related explosives) Never
Risk of radiation (x-ray equipment, nuclear radiation, electromagnetic radiation, etc.) Never
Vibration (jack hammer, soil compactor, equipment that creates high vibration, etc.) Never
The noise level in the work environment is usually Moderate (business office with computers/printers, light traffic, etc.)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, efforts, or working conditions associated with the job. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job, management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed when circumstances change (e.g., emergencies, changes in personnel, workload, rush jobs, or technological developments).
• Assists in developing and implementing comprehensive communication strategies aligned with City priorities.
• Serves as a backup spokesperson, handling media inquiries, composing press releases, and coordinating press conferences.
• Builds and maintains relationships with media representatives to ensure accurate and positive coverage.
• Represents the City at public meetings, civic events, and engagements with community organizations.
• Plans and executes public outreach initiatives, town halls, and special events to promote City programs and services.
• Contributes to the development of digital content, including website updates, social media, newsletters, and video production.
• Ensures consistent branding, messaging, and compliance with City policies across all platforms.
• Supports the PIO in developing and executing crisis communication plans.
• Serves as a key representative in the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) during activations, providing timely and accurate public information.
• Assists in supervising communication staff, interns, or contractors, providing guidance and mentorship.
• Acts as the department lead in the absence of the PIO, making critical communication decisions and ensuring continuity of operations.
• Collaborates with City departments to ensure alignment in messaging and communication strategies.
• Assists in developing and managing the communications budget.
• Monitors and analyzes communication metrics to assess effectiveness and recommend improvements.
• Maintains up-to-date records, reports, and communication plans.
Perform any other related duties as required or assigned.To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty mentioned satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
• Bachelor's degree in public relations, communications, journalism, or marketing.
• Minimum of four (4) years of experience in public relations, media relations, or communications; government or municipal experience preferred.
• Supervisory or leadership experience is a plus.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong writing, editing, and public speaking skills.
• Knowledge of AP style and best practices in media relations.
• Proficiency in social media management, digital marketing, and content creation.
• Ability to handle crisis communication and respond under pressure.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to manage time effectively and meet tight deadlines.
REQUIRED CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS
• Must possess a valid Florida Driver's License with an acceptable driving record.SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
This position will directly supervise 0 employees.
This position may indirectly supervise 5 employees.
If applicable, supervisory responsibilities include interviewing, hiring and training employees; planning, assigning and directing work; appraising performance, rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.
ANALYTICAL ABILITY / PROBLEM SOLVING
MODERATELY STRUCTURED. Fairly broad activities using moderately structured procedures with only generally guided supervision.
PLANNING
With regard to general assignments in planning time, method, manner and/or sequence of performance of own work.
CONSIDERABLE RESPONSIBILITY; may also occasionally assist in the planning of work assignments performed by others within a limited area of operation.
DECISION MAKING
Performs work operations which permit opportunity for decision-making of minor importance. FREQUENTLY;
Performs work operations which permit opportunity for decision-making of major importance. FREQUENTLY;
COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Ability to read, analyze, and understand the most complex documents; Ability to respond effectively to the most sensitive inquiries or complaints.
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
Ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide numbers. Ability to perform these mathematical skills using money and other forms of measurement.
CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS
Ability to utilize common sense understanding in order to carry out written, oral or diagrammed instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving several known variables furnished in written, oral, or diagram formats.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Under immediate supervision, with SHORT ASSIGNMENTS of work at frequent interval with REGULAR CHECK of work.
MENTAL DEMAND
CLOSE; Operations requiring close and continuous attention for control of operations. Operations requiring intermittent direct thinking to determine or select the most applicable way of handling situations regarding the organization’s operations.
USE OF MACHINES, EQUIPMENT AND/OR COMPUTER
Regular use of complex machines and equipment (desktop/laptop computer and software, road and production machines and equipment, etc.)
ACCURACY
Probable errors of internal scope readily detected in normal course of work by standard check or routine crosscheck within a single department or office. Errors resulting from inaccuracy would create Minor confusion, delay or expense to correct.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Regular contacts with patrons, either within the office or in the field. May also involve occasional self-initiated contacts to patrons. Lack of tact and judgment may result in a limited type of problem for the organization.
EMPLOYEE CONTACT
Contacts of considerable importance within the department or office. Requires tact in discussing problems and presenting data and making recommendations.
SOFTWARE SKILLS REQUIRED
Accounting Basic
Alphanumeric Data Entry Basic
Contact Management Intermediate
Database Basic
Enterprise Resource Planning Basic
Human Resources Systems None
Payroll Systems None
Presentation/PowerPoint Intermediate
Programming Languages None
Spreadsheet Intermediate
Word Processing/Typing Intermediate
ADDITIONAL SOFTWARE SKILLS
Adobe Creative Cloud
Canva Proficiency
OTHER SKILLS
Photography and Videography - Intermediate
PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES
While performing the functions of this job, the employee may be required to:
Stand Regularly
Walk Regularly
Sit Regularly
Use hands to handle or feel Regularly
Reach with hands and arms Occasionally
Climb or balance Never
Stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl Occasionally
Talk or hear Regularly
Taste or smell Never
WEIGHT LIFT REQUIREMENTS
The employee must occasionally lift and/or move: Up to 10 pounds
VISION REQUIREMENT
Specific vision abilities required by this job may include: Color vision (interpreting color software screens or reports; work duties that require the ability to identify and distinguish colors).
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
The following work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Work near moving mechanical parts (spinning shafts, engines, lifts, etc.) Never
Work in high, precarious places (tall structures, bucket lifts, extension ladders, etc.) Never
Fumes or airborne particles (painting, sanding, solvents, flying lint or dust particles, etc.) Never
Toxic or caustic chemicals (including potential for chemical spills, etc.) Never
Outdoor weather conditions (exposure to outdoor heat, cold or inclement weather) Occasionally
Wet or humid conditions (not weather-related, such as greenhouse, carwash, etc.) Never
Extreme cold (not weather-related, such as freezer, cold storage, etc.) Never
Extreme heat not weather-related, such as furnace, kitchen, ovens, etc. where temp is regularly above 100 degrees F) Never
Risk of electrical shock (live electrical wires, equipment that retains power after shutoff) Never
Work with explosives (TNT, dynamite, nitroglycerine or other related explosives) Never
Risk of radiation (x-ray equipment, nuclear radiation, electromagnetic radiation, etc.) Never
Vibration (jack hammer, soil compactor, equipment that creates high vibration, etc.) Never
The noise level in the work environment is usually Moderate (business office with computers/printers, light traffic, etc.)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, efforts, or working conditions associated with the job. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the current job, management reserves the right to revise the job or to require that other or different tasks be performed when circumstances change (e.g., emergencies, changes in personnel, workload, rush jobs, or technological developments).
Salary : $58,140 - $77,190