What are the responsibilities and job description for the Part-Time Communications Specialist position at City of Vista?
The City of Vista’s Communications Division is seeking a part-time Communications Specialist to join our team in support of the Recreation & Community Services Department. This position will play a key role in developing and managing marketing and communications strategies that increase community engagement and participation in City programs, services, and events.
Serving as the lead Communications Specialist for the Recreation & Community Services Department’s signature venues, including the Moonlight Amphitheatre, the Wave Waterpark, and the Gloria McClellan Senior Center, the position is responsible for promoting a wide range of programs, performances, and special events designed to enhance the quality of life for Vista residents and visitors. In addition, the Specialist will support communications efforts for youth and adult sports, recreation classes, summer camps, and citywide community events.
The ideal candidate brings experience in marketing, public relations, and social media management, thrives in a collaborative team environment, and has a passion for connecting the community with opportunities to learn, play, and celebrate in Vista.
The part-time Communications Specialist will make a direct impact on the City’s communications to the public by assisting the Communications Office in determining the most appropriate media to market various programs, services, and events.
Examples of Essential Functions:
- For the Moonlight Amphitheatre, this position will coordinate marketing communications activities that promote the theatre’s five-show summer season, the Moonlight Concert Series, and special events utilizing online and offline channels, including direct mail, database marketing, and digital marketing. The position will also be responsible for coordinating show program content for the Broadway musical series and responding to media requests for interviews and reviewer tickets. During the summer season, there will be occasional evening work. Schedule flexibility is essential during the summer season, from April through September. The selected candidate will write and distribute press releases and pitch stories to media, including obtaining coverage that celebrates The Moonlight’s 45th Anniversary in 2026.
- For the Wave Waterpark, this position will coordinate marketing communications activities that promote the venue’s summer season, which runs from Labor Day until the end of September, utilizing online and offline channels, utilizing mainly digital marketing.
- For the McClellan Senior Center, this position will coordinate marketing communications activities to support increasing participation across The Center’s programs, ranging from weekday lunch service, activities, numerous social services, special events, and the Culture Caravan program.
- For the above-mentioned responsibilities, the selected candidate will work in a collaborative environment with other Communications and City team members to accomplish tasks and goals and share workloads.
- Participate in meetings to coordinate details and tasks.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.