Downers Grove, IL – COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

The Village of Downers Grove is seeking a creative, detail-oriented Communications Specialist to join the team responsible for the community’s communication efforts. Reporting to the Communications Director, the Communications Specialist works in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, developing and executing communication plans. The primary focus of this position is to communicate information about Village services and initiatives to the public and Village staff through a variety of methods, including press releases, social media, the Village website, mass notification system, articles, and video.

Major Duties and Functions:

• Executes social media and communication strategies to increase engagement, followers, and brand awareness.
• Updates content on the Village’s website to highlight timely information and confirm accuracy.
• Attends special events, public meetings, and programs to photograph and record, sharing live updates and post-event summaries, as appropriate.
• Produces live streams and recordings of various board and commission meetings for playback.
• Maintains accessible files of all photos and videos.
• Creates marketing materials using software and video editing tools.
• Photographs and documents program participants and events for publication and promotion.
• Designs flyers, banners, documents, mailers, signage, and other items to support Village events and programming.
• Collaborates with all Departments to coordinate the distribution of information to Village residents, businesses, and employees. Ensures all communication is presented in a consistent voice with brand standards.
• Promotes and maintains positive community relations with the public and staff.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required:

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, social media platforms, Canva, and Adobe Creative Cloud (InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop).
• Proficiency in Constant Contact (or similar email marketing platforms) is also preferred.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships, work independently, meet deadlines, and demonstrate effective communication, both oral and written, at all times.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to show empathy.

Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field is required, with at least three to five years of experience in communications is preferred. Experience working in a local government setting is a plus. A combination of education and experience that produces the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is also acceptable.

Salary and Benefits: The full salary range for this position is $59,385 – $81,654, with a starting salary up to $70,000. The Village offers an excellent benefits package, including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF). Review the Benefits Summary for more detailed information.

APPLY NOW! Interested applicants can apply by clicking the “Apply for Job” button. Only online applications will be accepted, except for reasonable accommodations. Position open until filled.

The Village of Downers Grove is an Equal Opportunity Employer. For more information or assistance, please contact the Human Resources Department at (630) 434-5500.