What are the responsibilities and job description for the Communications Specialist - External Affairs position at Lensa?
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Communications Specialist - External Affairs
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Communications Specialist - External Affairs
Salary
$22.76 - $31.08 Hourly
Location
611 Walker Street
Job Type
Full Time
Job Number
37235
Department
Office of Business Opportunity
Opening Date
09/24/2025
Closing Date
10/1/2025 11:59 PM Central
Applications accepted from: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED
Job Classification: COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST (External Affairs)
Division: Director’s Office
Reporting Location: 611 Walker Street, 7TH Floor
Workdays & Hours: Monday – Friday 8am – 5pm Subject to Change
Description Of Duties / Essential Functions
The Office of Business Opportunity’s (OBO) vision is to eliminate systemic barriers to prosperity and economic opportunity in the Greater Houston region. Our mission is to cultivate an inclusive and competitive economic environment in the City of Houston by promoting the success of small businesses and developing Houston’s workforce, with a special emphasis on historically underutilized businesses and disenfranchised individuals.
OBO executes on this vision and mission by administering the City’s supplier diversity program, assisting new and growing businesses through targeted programming, and advocating for small businesses at the local, state, and national level. In order to significantly increase the number, capacity, and success of businesses in Houston, OBO certifies Minority, Women, Small and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (MWSDBE) and Persons with Disabilities Business Enterprises, performs compliance monitoring activities on City contracts, and facilitates business development and capacity building programs for businesses.
Of note, Houston is the 4th largest City in the US. Individuals employed by the City of Houston are part of one of the most diverse workforces in the country. The City has a reputation of training and equipping employees with tools and skills that help them advance in their careers. Here, you will find unlimited career growth potential, on-the-job training, safe work environment, work-life balance, and professional development opportunities. City employees are a part of an institution that sets the trend for other organizations and states, while touching the lives, businesses, health, and well-being of all Houstonians. Additionally, the City offers comprehensive benefit options, generous leave programs, and employee discounts.
The Communications Specialist will play a vital role in advancing OBO’s mission by supporting internal and external communications, elevating OBO’s brand presence, and developing high-quality content for diverse audiences. The position requires strong writing, editing, and design skills, as well as the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities Include, But Are Not Limited To
WORKING CONDITIONS
This position is physically comfortable; the individual has discretion about walking, standing, etc. There are no major sources of discomfort in a normal office environment.
Minimum Requirements
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Requires a Bachelor's degree in Art, Design, Communications, Media Relations, English, or a field related to work being performed.
Experience Requirements
Six months of experience in media, public relations, art or field related to the work being performed are required. Directly related professional experience may be substituted for the education requirement on a year-for-year basis.
License Requirements
A valid Texas Driver’s License and compliance with the City of Houston’s policy on driving (AP 2-2).
PREFERENCES
Preference will be given to candidates with the following skillsets:
GENERAL INFORMATION
SELECTION / SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED: Yes
The department will administer, and the applicant must successfully complete, a skills-assessment relevant to job description.
SAFETY IMPACT POSITION: YES
If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.
SALARY INFORMATION
Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate’s qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.
Paygrade: 15
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during posting opening and closing dates shown. Applications must be submitted online at: www.houstontx.gov.
To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm or call 832-393-6051. If you need special services or accommodations, call. (832-393-6051) (TTY 7-1-1). If you need login assistance or technical support call 855-524-5627.
Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.
All new and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information provided.
EOE – Equal Opportunity Employer
The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.
The city offers a competitive benefits program, including competitively priced health coverage and a defined contribution pension plan. Benefits include:
01
Are you a veteran who served on active duty in the Armed Forces (United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard) for more than 90 consecutive days and received either an honorable discharge or a general discharge under honorable conditions?
Indicate your highest level of COMPLETED education and years of directly related professional experience.
Please indicate your level of proficiency in Microsoft Office products (Word, Access, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
Do you have a valid, unexpired driver's license?
Which best describes how many years of verifiable experience you have in written communication?
If you indicated in the above question that you have verifiable experience in written communication, please describe your experience. Include specific examples. (Response of 'See Resume' will not be accepted as a satisfactory response and will delay your application progress.)
07
Which best describes how many years of verifiable experience you have in graphic design?
If you indicated in the above question, you have verifiable experience in graphic design, please describe your experience. Include specific examples, including the types of items you have designed. (Response of 'See Resume' will not be accepted as a satisfactory response and will delay your application progress.)
09
Are you available and willing to work some evenings and weekends?
Have you developed or executed a communications and marketing plan? If so , please describe that experience. If not, please indicate "N/A' below. (Response of 'See Resume' will not be accepted as a satisfactory response and will delay your application progress.)
11
Are you currently a City of Houston employee working in the Office of Business Opportunity (OBO) Department?
If you have questions about this posting, please contact support@lensa.com
Communications Specialist - External Affairs
Print (https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/houston/jobs/newprint/5091017)
Apply
Communications Specialist - External Affairs
Salary
$22.76 - $31.08 Hourly
Location
611 Walker Street
Job Type
Full Time
Job Number
37235
Department
Office of Business Opportunity
Opening Date
09/24/2025
Closing Date
10/1/2025 11:59 PM Central
- Description
- Benefits
- Questions
Applications accepted from: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED
Job Classification: COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST (External Affairs)
Division: Director’s Office
Reporting Location: 611 Walker Street, 7TH Floor
Workdays & Hours: Monday – Friday 8am – 5pm Subject to Change
Description Of Duties / Essential Functions
The Office of Business Opportunity’s (OBO) vision is to eliminate systemic barriers to prosperity and economic opportunity in the Greater Houston region. Our mission is to cultivate an inclusive and competitive economic environment in the City of Houston by promoting the success of small businesses and developing Houston’s workforce, with a special emphasis on historically underutilized businesses and disenfranchised individuals.
OBO executes on this vision and mission by administering the City’s supplier diversity program, assisting new and growing businesses through targeted programming, and advocating for small businesses at the local, state, and national level. In order to significantly increase the number, capacity, and success of businesses in Houston, OBO certifies Minority, Women, Small and Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (MWSDBE) and Persons with Disabilities Business Enterprises, performs compliance monitoring activities on City contracts, and facilitates business development and capacity building programs for businesses.
Of note, Houston is the 4th largest City in the US. Individuals employed by the City of Houston are part of one of the most diverse workforces in the country. The City has a reputation of training and equipping employees with tools and skills that help them advance in their careers. Here, you will find unlimited career growth potential, on-the-job training, safe work environment, work-life balance, and professional development opportunities. City employees are a part of an institution that sets the trend for other organizations and states, while touching the lives, businesses, health, and well-being of all Houstonians. Additionally, the City offers comprehensive benefit options, generous leave programs, and employee discounts.
The Communications Specialist will play a vital role in advancing OBO’s mission by supporting internal and external communications, elevating OBO’s brand presence, and developing high-quality content for diverse audiences. The position requires strong writing, editing, and design skills, as well as the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
Key Responsibilities Include, But Are Not Limited To
- Content Development & Editing
- Draft, edit, and proofread a variety of communication materials, including scripts, speeches, talking points, newsletter articles, press releases, and web/social media content.
- Produce OBO’s quarterly newsletter, ensuring accuracy, accessibility, and audience engagement.
- Marketing & Creative Services
- Design and develop marketing collateral such as flyers, brochures, infographics, videos, impact reports, white papers, and branded content.
- Apply graphic design and photography skills to strengthen OBO’s visual identity and storytelling.
- Digital & Social Media Management
- Oversee OBO’s social media presence by maintaining a content calendar, posting updates, and responding to audience inquiries.
- Use analytics tools to track engagement, evaluate impact, and inform future social media strategies.
- Program & Event Support
- Assist with event promotion and logistics, including the creation of displays, exhibits, and other special projects.
- Contribute to grant writing efforts to secure funding for OBO programs.
- Compliance & Public Information
- Manage Texas Public Information Act requests in alignment with City of Houston standards.
- Perform additional communications-related duties as assigned.
WORKING CONDITIONS
This position is physically comfortable; the individual has discretion about walking, standing, etc. There are no major sources of discomfort in a normal office environment.
Minimum Requirements
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
Requires a Bachelor's degree in Art, Design, Communications, Media Relations, English, or a field related to work being performed.
Experience Requirements
Six months of experience in media, public relations, art or field related to the work being performed are required. Directly related professional experience may be substituted for the education requirement on a year-for-year basis.
License Requirements
A valid Texas Driver’s License and compliance with the City of Houston’s policy on driving (AP 2-2).
PREFERENCES
Preference will be given to candidates with the following skillsets:
- Written and oral fluency in Spanish is preferred not required
- Very strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to communicate comfortably and at appropriate level of summary and detail across multiple levels
- Experience in journalism, marketing or public relations
- Copy editing experience with superior attention to detail and knowledge of AP style
- Experience producing social media content in a professional business environment and knowledge of best practices
- Experience with graphic design for the purpose of producing flyers, announcements, brochures and reports in a professional business environment
- Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite or other graphic design platforms
- Effective time management and organization skills
GENERAL INFORMATION
SELECTION / SKILLS TESTS REQUIRED: Yes
The department will administer, and the applicant must successfully complete, a skills-assessment relevant to job description.
SAFETY IMPACT POSITION: YES
If yes, this position is subject to random drug testing and if a promotional position, candidate must pass an assignment drug test.
SALARY INFORMATION
Factors used in determining the salary offered include the candidate’s qualifications as well as the pay rates of other employees in this classification.
Paygrade: 15
APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Only online applications will be accepted for this City of Houston job and must be received by the Human Resources Department during posting opening and closing dates shown. Applications must be submitted online at: www.houstontx.gov.
To view your detailed application status, please log-in to your online profile by visiting: http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/default.cfm or call 832-393-6051. If you need special services or accommodations, call. (832-393-6051) (TTY 7-1-1). If you need login assistance or technical support call 855-524-5627.
Due to the high volume of applications received, the Hiring Department will contact you directly, should you be selected to advance in our recruitment process.
All new and rehires must pass a pre-employment drug test and are subject to a physical examination and verification of information provided.
EOE – Equal Opportunity Employer
The City of Houston is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.
The city offers a competitive benefits program, including competitively priced health coverage and a defined contribution pension plan. Benefits include:
- Medical
- Dental
- Vision
- Wellness
- Supplemental Insurance
- Life insurance
- Long-term disability
- Retirement pension
- 457 deferred compensation plan
- Employee Assistance Program
- 10 days of vacation each year
- 11 city holidays, plus one floating holiday
- Compensable Sick Leave
- Personal Leave
- Flexible schedules
- Hybrid-Telework for eligible positions
- Professional development opportunities
- Transportation/parking plan
- Section 125 pretax deductions
- Dependent Care Reimbursement Plan
- Paid Prenatal, Parental and Infant Wellness Leaves
- Healthcare Flexible Spending Account
01
Are you a veteran who served on active duty in the Armed Forces (United States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard) for more than 90 consecutive days and received either an honorable discharge or a general discharge under honorable conditions?
- Yes
- No
Indicate your highest level of COMPLETED education and years of directly related professional experience.
- Bachelor's degree in Art, Design, Communications, Media Relations, English, or a field related to the work being perform and AT LEAST SIX (6) months of experience in media, public relations, art or a field related to the work being performed are required.
- Bachelor's degree in Art, Design, Communications, Media Relations, English, or a field related to the work being perform and LESS THAN SIX (6) months of experience in media, public relations, art or a field related to the work being performed are required.
- Associates' degree in Art, Design, Communications, Media Relations, English, or a field related to the work being perform and AT LEAST TWO (2) years and SIX (6) months of experience in media, public relations, art or a field related to the work being performed are required.
- Associates' degree in Art, Design, Communications, Media Relations, English, or a field related to the work being perform and LESS THAN TWO (2) years and SIX (6) months of experience in media, public relations, art or a field related to the work being performed are required.
- High School Diploma and/or GED and AT LEAST FOUR (4) years and SIX (6) months of experience in media, public relations, art or a field related to the work being performed are required.
- High School Diploma and/or GED and LESS THAN FOUR (4) years and SIX (6) months of experience in media, public relations, art or a field related to the work being performed are required.
- None of the above
Please indicate your level of proficiency in Microsoft Office products (Word, Access, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
- BEGINNER: Perform daily word processing tasks in Word, enter correct data, create a database, import data from Excel in Access, format cells, rows and columns in Excel, create a PowerPoint presentation file with a title slide, bullet points and place in slide loop mode; create a new e-mail message, checking e-mail in Outlook.
- INTERMEDIATE: Basic formatting and create a variety of templates, mail merges in Word; create primary key to associate data between multiple tables, create a select query in Access; create, modify, and format charts, use graphic objects to enhance worksheets & charts in Excel; add special affects to presentation (design and animation) in PowerPoint; reply, forward, print and delete an e-mail message in Outlook.
- ADVANCED: Manage table data, sort and filter merges in Word, create a split form and report and back up your databases in Access; use the filter and formula functions to manipulate data in Excel; transition presentation slides, link Excel charts to presentation and add voice in PowerPoint; delete e-mails from the Inbox, Sent Items and Deleted Items folders, Add, edit, move and delete appointments on your calendar.
- EXPERT: Produce table of contents, footnotes, endnotes, bookmarks in Word, manage Macro commands, and manage database objects in Access, use advance formula functions (Vlookup, IF, IS) manage macro commands, group rows in Excel; publish presentation online, embed objects into presentation in PowerPoint; managing multiple calendars, set rules for incoming mail, create subfolders for mail to be placed in Outlook.
- I have no experience in working with Microsoft Office Products
Do you have a valid, unexpired driver's license?
- Yes
- No
Which best describes how many years of verifiable experience you have in written communication?
- At least five (5) years of verifiable experience
- At least four (4) years of verifiable experience
- At least three (3) years of verifiable experience
- At least two (2) years of verifiable experience
- None of the above
If you indicated in the above question that you have verifiable experience in written communication, please describe your experience. Include specific examples. (Response of 'See Resume' will not be accepted as a satisfactory response and will delay your application progress.)
07
Which best describes how many years of verifiable experience you have in graphic design?
- At least five (5) years of verifiable experience
- At least four (4) years of verifiable experience
- At least three (3) years of verifiable experience
- At least two (2) years of verifiable experience
- None of the above
If you indicated in the above question, you have verifiable experience in graphic design, please describe your experience. Include specific examples, including the types of items you have designed. (Response of 'See Resume' will not be accepted as a satisfactory response and will delay your application progress.)
09
Are you available and willing to work some evenings and weekends?
- Yes
- No
Have you developed or executed a communications and marketing plan? If so , please describe that experience. If not, please indicate "N/A' below. (Response of 'See Resume' will not be accepted as a satisfactory response and will delay your application progress.)
11
Are you currently a City of Houston employee working in the Office of Business Opportunity (OBO) Department?
- Yes
- No
If you have questions about this posting, please contact support@lensa.com
Salary : $23 - $31
