Communications Specialist 800-06

Summary   The primary purpose of this position is to provide the Authority with high quality internal and external communications. It is a writing intensive position that will require the incumbent to: social media and website content, press releases, newsletters, reports, presentations and various promotional items. This is a professional position responsible for producing written material and performing editorial duties directed at promoting the Authority’s programs and activities.   Specific duties include management and development of multiple social media platforms, website content management, the creation of news articles and press releases, drafting of speeches and presentations, conducting research, and writing reports and position papers.  The successful candidate must have excellent written communication skills and professional editing skills. Ability to manage multiple projects and adhere to strict deadlines is essential.   The successful candidate must have a B.A. degree with a concentration in the area of communications, journalism, or a related field at least two years of relevant professional experience. This position will require frequent onsite assignments in HACP communities and occasional weekend and evening work.   All activities must support the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (“HACP” or “Authority”) mission, strategic goals and objectives.   Essential Duties and Responsibilities The position duties and responsibilities listed below describe the general nature and scope of work. Other responsibilities, duties and skills may be required and assigned, as needed. Develop and expand social media platforms in order to engage HACP residents, stakeholders and the general public; Manage social media efforts to promote program and activities at the Authority and maximizing engagement with appropriate audiences; Attend and report on special events held by the Authority and/or partner organizations in order to promote through social media or website; Serve as editor/ content manager for the HACP website: www.hacp.org; Coordination production of three annual publications:  HACP newsletter (two per year), and agency annual report; Review and copy-edit HACP correspondence as needed; Assist with coordination and promotion of special projects and programs for residents of public housing, such as community events, workshops, and training activities; Assist with the development of in-house audio-video productions, particularly with the development of scripts for in-house public service announcements and/or promotional videos; Assist with the writing and editing of promotional copy for use on radio, television, print or digital formats; Conduct and prepare internal and external correspondence and memorandums; Assist with photography assignments and management of digital photo gallery; Assist with record keeping and office management as needed; Assume other responsibilities and tasks as assigned by HACP Community Affairs Dept., including but not limited to: photo and/ or video assignments, assisting with HACP special events, assisting with HACP publications and, assistance with special project management. Gather data, analyze information, and prepare monthly reports of key indicators as needed; and,    Perform other duties as assigned.   Education and/or Experience   Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations, or other discipline is required.  Strong writing and communications skills are required. Minimum of 2 years’ experience producing professional copy and editorial work for print and digital formats. Previous experience using social media in a professional setting strongly preferred.   Applicants must provide at least two professional writing samples. Applicants with experience in social media management/ content development should include examples of social media posts that they have authored.   Technical Skills   To perform this job successfully, the employee should have strong computer skills (MS Word, Excel, and Outlook). Must have some experience with website content management and/or social media management. Must have the ability to learn other computer software programs as required to complete assigned tasks.   Physical Demands   The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.   To perform this job successfully, the employee is frequently required to travel to various Authority properties. Daily movements include sitting; standing; reaching and grasping; operating computers and other office equipment; moving about the properties; and attending onsite meetings and offsite meetings. The employee must be able to exchange information in person, in writing, and via telephone. The employee must occasionally transport up to 25 pounds.   Work Environment   The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.   Position works in office environment and on Authority properties, which may cause the employee to experience a range in temperatures and other weather conditions. The noise level may be loud and the environment may be more hazardous than a standard office environment. This position may be required to work with contractors as well as Authority residents.The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh (HACP) provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.