Are you a creative communicator? Join a collaborative and award-winning team where you’ll have an integral role in developing and implementing communication strategies, promotional plans and key messages that support high-profile programs and services and the overall Strathcona County brand and reputation. Working in our fast-paced department, the Communications Specialist role requires someone that can adapt quickly to emergent items and work under tight timelines, with the ability to be both strategic and tactical in approaches to social media, public advertising and internal communications. This position will provide communications advice and support on a variety of topics, including winter maintenance services and major construction projects.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage, develop and implement communications and marketing plans to support department projects and programs. 
• Develop a strategic approach to department internal communication that supports business needs.
• Write for a variety of media, including the website, social media, newspaper articles, newsletters, notice letters, intranet, and various advertisements, while ensuring corporate communications, corporate branding, and Canadian Press standards are met.
• Manage communication projects that include website, graphic design, print, electronic communications, and internal/external advertising. 
• Work with supervisors and managers to understand business goals and advise on best communications approach by identifying key audiences and relevant communication tools to reach those audiences.
• Coordinate regular evaluation of department communications to ensure continuous improvement and effectiveness of communication initiatives.
• Excellent planning, organizational and project management skills to manage a high volume of work under time restraints and rapidly changing job priorities.
• Collaboration and support for corporate initiatives, acting as the department representative on various committees.

Qualifications and kills: 

• Post-secondary degree in Communications, Public Relations or related field with a minimum of 3 years’ experience, or a diploma in a related field with a minimum of 5 years’ experience.
• Ability to write effectively using a variety of mediums (print, advertising, media relations, web, social media and related technology) with extensive knowledge on Canadian Press style guidelines.
• Collaborative thinking skills with the ability to foster a team approach into a diverse area.
• Ability to clearly explain complex information, promote understanding, and ensure clarity of message for intended audiences.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and a strong understanding of clear communication and marketing principles and experience with their practical application Experience working in Microsoft 365, SharePoint and Adobe Creative Suite Design Premium package would be an asset.
• Strong planning, organizational, and project management skills to manage a high volume of work under time restraints and rapidly changing job priorities.
• Ability to actively listen to others to identify key issues and opportunities to develop key messages and best approach.
• Experience working in the public sector would be considered an asset.

Who We Are: 

Strathcona County is a specialized municipality located in the heart of Alberta.  Our vision is to become Canada’s most livable community, where our workplace culture and identity are supported by our people plan and values of integrity, respect, safety, fairness, and cooperation.   

Why Join Strathcona County: (depending on position) 

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, which includes: 
• Extended health and dental coverage    
• Health and wellness spending account    
• Life and disability insurance 
• Retirement and pension programs  
• Paid and unpaid leave programs  
• Earned day off program 
• Employee and family assistance program 
• Commitment to employee development, through internal and external training and development opportunities 
• Well-being programs and a safety culture focused on physical and psychological health in the workplace 

Equivalencies of education and experience may be considered. This role may be eligible to participate in our hybrid work program.   

This competition may be used to fill future vacancies for similar positions within the next 6 months.   

Strathcona County is committed to an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace that represents the community we serve. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who can contribute diverse perspectives and experiences. 

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.