COMMUNITY RELATIONS SPECIALIST

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Employment Type: Part-Time (IMRF Eligible)
Department: Administration
Reports To: Marketing & Communications Manager
Supervises: None
Pay Range: The starting hiring range is $20.61 - $25.76 dependent on experience and education. Full pay range for this position is $20.61 - $30.91.

Summary:

The Community Relations Specialist is responsible for managing the sponsorship program and creating positive community messaging through electronic newsletters, social media, and special events. This is a part-time, year-round IMRF pension-eligible position working approximately 20–30 hours per week. The position is primarily office-based and in-person; however, after the introductory period and during non-peak times, there may be an opportunity for a hybrid schedule, based on operational needs. The position will primarily work daytime hours, with occasional evening and weekend hours required to support programs and events.

Work Schedule:

This is a part-time, year-round, at-will, IMRF-eligible position working approximately 20–30 hours per week with a potential hybrid schedule. The position primarily works daytime hours with occasional evenings and weekends based on program and event needs.

Essential Duties/Job Responsibilities:

The following are considered essential functions of the position; however, they are not intended to be all-inclusive.

• Develop and implement strategies to engage with the local community, including residents, businesses, and other stakeholders
• Create and disseminate positive messages through electronic newsletters, social media, and community events.
• Identify opportunities for partnerships with community organizations, businesses, schools, and government agencies to support the District’s goals and initiatives.
• Secure sponsorships to support the District’s initiatives and projects.
• Track sponsorship revenue and prepares periodic reports.
• Capture visual content at events and programs for promotional and documentation purposes.
• Maintains confidentiality in both internal and external communications.
• Performs all job tasks within the rules and guidelines of the District’s safety program.
• Attends staff meetings as assigned.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Fundraising, Marketing, Graphic Design, or a related field; or equivalent experience.
• Three to five years of relevant work experience preferred.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and provide own transportation.
• Must have knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office, Canva, WordPress, social media platforms and photography.
• CPR/First Aid/AED certification, or ability to obtain within 60 days of hire date.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of marketing, public relations, and community engagement principles.
• Knowledge of social media platforms and audience engagement best practices.
• Skill in creating written and visual communications for newsletters, social media, and promotional materials.
• Proficiency with communication and design tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, and WordPress.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with community partners and sponsors.
• Ability to identify and secure sponsorship opportunities.
• Ability to track sponsorship deliverables and maintain partner relationships.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently while collaborating with staff.

Physical, Cognitive and Environmental Requirements:

• Ability to sit, stand, walk, and use a computer for extended periods of time.
• Frequent use of hands for typing, writing, and handling materials.
• Occasional bending, kneeling, and lifting up to 20 lbs.
• Ability to attend off-site meetings, programs, and community events.
• Ability to travel between facilities and community locations.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

The Prospect Heights Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.