Communications Specialist

COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

EXECUTIVE OFFICE OF CITY MANAGER

COMMUNICATIONS CITY OF WORCESTER

The City of Worcester is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Communications Specialist for the Executive Office of the City Manager. Under the direction of the Director of Communications and Marketing, this position will play a key role in coordinating communications with the City Council and supporting the municipality’s messaging and storytelling. This position will be responsible for the preparation and tracking of internal and external communications, report development, and project management. The work environment is fast-paced, collaborative, and professional, so a strong work ethic and ability to adapt to shifting priorities are key. The individual in this role will be positioned to make significant impact on the City of Worcester and be immersed in the nexus of the legislative and executive functions of municipal government.

Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.

Essential Elements

• Oversee the City Council Agenda Management System relative to City Manager communications for City Council meetings.
• Assign and track the progress of City Council items, committee hearings, and other local legislative activities, providing updates, summaries, and follow-up actions.
• Maintain and update internal City Council tracking systems to support departmental communications and reporting.
• Strategize with the Chief of Staff and Director of Communications & Marketing to facilitate responses to City Council orders and report requests.
• Proactively liaise with Cabinet members on City Council agenda items for scripting, ideation, revision, and progress tracking.
• Draft City Manager memos and review City Council reports for clarity of expression, accuracy, timeliness, completeness, and responsiveness to office and audience communications needs.
• Compile and distribute biweekly internal newsletter to share important messages from the City Manager, employee features, and departmental news and events.
• Check City Council items for compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) Version 2.1, Level AA.
• Print, collate, and distribute all City Manager agendas and reports.
• Support communications team on event operations, press release development, graphic design, social media posting, talking points, and photography/videography projects as time allows.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
  
  

Required Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Knowledge of the Plan E or council-manager form of government and understanding of the relationship between legislative and executive purviews
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a detailed, timely manner, including the balance of writing and administrative work to facilitate the agenda process
• Ability to create engaging written content that aligns with strategic goals, voice, and brand
• Ability to translate complex information into clear, accessible messaging and communicate effectively for diverse audiences
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment; flexible approach to working with multiple stakeholders
• Demonstrated strong work ethic, including the ability to meet strict deadlines and work longer hours as necessary
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to use initiative and independent judgment within established guidelines and procedure
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team that relies on information sharing
• Ability to use Microsoft Office 365 products
• Ability to use Adobe Suite products
• Regular onsite attendance is required
• Excellent writing skills, including a range of styles such as memo, report, and copywriting
• Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills, particularly for interacting with executive level colleagues
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills
• Strong time and project management skills
• High attention to detail
  
  

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, public administration, political science, communications, public relations, journalism, English, or related field, AND;
• One (1) year of relevant communications experience (may include internships), OR;
• Any equivalent combination of education, training and three (3) years of relevant experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the position may be considered in lieu of above requirement.
• Proficient with computers, including Adobe and Microsoft Office Suites
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Two (2) years of experience developing communications for diverse audiences
• Two (2) years of experience with copywriting, proofreading, and editing
• Familiarity with government, and specifically City of Worcester, operations
• Experience working with digital platforms and content management systems
• Experience executing communications strategies
  
  

SALARY RANGE: $29.36 - $35.59 hourly, full-time, with an excellent benefits package.

To apply, please visit: www.worcesterma.gov/employment or send resume and cover letter to: City of Worcester, 455 Main Street, Room 109, Worcester, MA 01608. OPEN UNTIL FILLED, applications received prior to or on FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2026, will receive preference. Preference is given to Worcester residents. The City of Worcester is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. Direct inquiries to: City Hall, Human Resources, Room 109, 508-799-1030, Hiring@worcesterma.gov.