Position Overview:
Oakmont Borough is seeking a motivated and skilled Communications Specialist to support our local government’s outreach efforts. This position will focus on maintaining and enhancing communication between the Borough and its residents, with an emphasis on transparency, engagement, and community-building. The Communications Specialist will be responsible for a range of communication tasks including managing digital content, drafting press releases, and assisting with public relations campaigns. The specialist will work closely with the Borough Manager, Assistant Borough Manager and Communication & Outreach Committee. This is a stipend-based position offering flexible hours, ideal for someone passionate about local government, public relations, and community service.
Primary Functions:
Social Media Management: Maintain and update the Borough’s social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.) to ensure timely and relevant updates for residents.
● Content Creation: Develop and write content for Borough newsletters, website updates, and press releases, ensuring all communications are clear, concise, and aligned with Oakmont’s messaging.
● Meeting Minutes: Minutes for the Oakmont Borough Council Workshops and Meetings. Drafts will be sent to the Borough Manager to be distributed to Council for approval.
● inFOURm: Create and publish a brief social media post of 4 topics provided by the Council’s Leadership Collective (President, Vice-President, and President Pro-Tempore) after Borough Council Meetings - within 72 hours of Council Meetings
● Event Promotion: Assist with the promotion of Borough events, meetings, and community initiatives.
● Branding: Assist in the design of any Borough branding needs, including but not limited to: decals, signage, business cards and other office needs, etc.
● Media Relations: Build and maintain relationships with local media outlets, pitching news stories, and ensuring coverage of Borough activities and developments - all of which must be run through the Borough Manager.
● Website Management: Update and manage content on the Oakmont Borough website to keep it current and informative.
● Collaboration: Work closely with Borough officials, departments, and committees to ensure consistent communication and community outreach.
● Crisis Communication: Assist in the development of messaging during crises or emergencies, ensuring clear and accurate communication with the public. Specialist will work directly with the Mayor, Borough Manager and Emergency Management Coordinator.
● Work Log: Complete a monthly updated report form provided to council and included in the public record with all completed tasks and assignments.
● And all other duties as assigned by the Community and Outreach Committee or Borough Manager.
Qualifications:
● Strong communication skills with the ability to write clear, engaging, and professional content.
● Basic understanding of public relations principles and experience with social media platforms, website content management, and digital tools.
● Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
● Knowledge of Oakmont Borough and its community is a plus.
● Previous experience in communications, journalism, or public relations is preferred but not required.
● Availability to attend Communication and Outreach Committee Meetings: 7:30 pm on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month via Google Meet
● Availability, as requested, to communicate with Borough Staff during Borough office hours and to attend Borough meetings, either in person or virtually
Compensation:
This position is stipend-based, with compensation provided on a monthly basis following the approval of their monthly report, signed off by the Borough Manager, at Borough Council Meetings. Flexibility in work schedule and hours is offered, but candidates should expect to dedicate several hours each week to fulfilling the duties of the position.
Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit a brief cover letter and resume in PDF format to [email protected] with the email subject as Communications Specialist.
Please include examples of past communications work or writing samples, if available.
Oakmont Borough is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply.
Pay: $400.00 per month
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Oakmont, PA 15139
