Communications Coordinator (Public Health and Paramedic Services)

at  Region of Waterloo

Communications Coordinator (Public Health and Paramedic Services)
Job Number: 1726
Job Type: Full-Time
Location: 99 Regina Street, Waterloo, ON
Number of Positions: 1
Department: Communications and Engagement
Division: Public Health and Paramedic Services
Hours of Work: 35, Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm (flexibiilty to support hours outside of normal schedule on occasion and as needed)
Union: CUPE 1883
Grade: CUPE 1883 Grade 010
Salary Range: $35.74 - $40.45 per hour
Posting Date: October 22, 2024
Closing Date: October 28, 2024

ABOUT US!

The Region of Waterloo is a thriving, diverse community committed to fostering opportunities for current and future generations. Home to over 674,000 residents and expected to grow to nearly one million by 2051. Guided by our 2023-2027 Strategic Plan, “Growing with Care,” we focus on equity, inclusion, and sustainability. Our mission is to provide essential services that enhance the quality of life for all residents, while our core values emphasize caring for people and the land we share. Join us and be part of a team dedicated to making a meaningful difference in our community.
Dish with One Spoon Wampum:

Waterloo Region is part of the Dish with One Spoon wampum, a treaty guiding our commitment to:

• Recognizing our shared humanity and land
• Taking only what we need
• Leaving some for others
• Keeping the dish clean

This agreement underpins our vision, mission, and core values, and reinforces our dedication to meaningful reconciliation and equity.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge and skills in communications, acquired through a three-year degree/diploma in a related field (e.g., Communications, Marketing, Journalism), plus three years of related experience. An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Ability to write effectively in plain language and a range of voices and creative styles for varied audiences and delivery methods (e.g., print, web, video); concisely communicate politically sensitive subject matters; build and maintain client relationships. An understanding of the Canadian Press Style Guide.
• Writing, editing, research and project management skills.
• Knowledge of online and email marketing, digital media, current social media platforms, promotional concepts, public speaking, and content creation.
• Knowledge and experience with the Canadian Public Relations Society or International Association of Business Communicators principles.
• Knowledge of and ability to comply with policies, procedures, related legislation (e.g., Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, privacy, anti-spam legislation), Canadian Press Standards, and social marketing and digital communications as it relates to health promotion.
• Ability to leverage social media to drive customer engagement and audience development, and enhance social networking. Ability to keep current on new technologies and digital communication platforms.
• Ability to exercise discretion and tact when dealing with confidential/sensitive information and inquiries.
• Analytical, research, organizational and problem solving skills to work independently to complete projects in a timely manner and meet deadlines; develop customized solutions for clients; apply corporate communications standards to content; and adapt to frequently changing priorities.
• Human relations and communication skills to establish effective working relationships with all levels of staff and external agencies; respond to public inquiries regarding departmental programs, policies, and procedures; conduct needs assessments with clients; design work and written materials and instruct staff, management, and external partners in specific work processes, methods, and procedures; and participate as an effective team member.
• Ability to write, proofread, and edit/rework communications materials and digital content using plain language, for use in multiple formats/platforms, and adapt based on audience; create written instructions for staff in the use of platforms, policies, procedures, and systems. Ability to read correspondence, technical manuals, magazines, content, and design/communication standards.
• Computer skills using software such as Microsoft Office, design applications (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite) and web-based technologies to update and maintain website and social media accounts. Skill in photography.
• May be required to alter working hours to provide website/social media updates in the event of an emergency. Ability to adjust working hours for presentations, special events and may be requested to work weekend hours for same.
• Ability to travel within Waterloo Region.
• Ability to support and demonstrate the Region’s values.
  The Region of Waterloo is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection process. The Region of Waterloo invites applications from all qualified individuals. We are strongly committed to employment equity, diversity and inclusion in the workplace and encourage applications from Black, racialized/visible minorities, Indigenous/Aboriginal people, women, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQIA+ persons.
  The Region of Waterloo is committed to providing accommodations throughout the recruitment process. If you require an accommodation, please notify us and we will work with you to meet your needs. Alternate formats of this document are available upon request. Please contact the Service First Contact Centre at phone number (519) 575-4400, TTY number (519-575-4608) to request an alternate format.
  Please note: candidates will be provided an update on their application Please check your spam or junk folder occasionally as some candidates have noticed our emails in those folders (Gmail and Hotmail in particular).

THE ROLE

This role coordinates and performs communications functions for program areas and divisions across the Department, including developing print, website and social media content materials, maintaining social media/online channels and participating in outreach activities/events to promote health messages, programs and initiatives.
As a key member of our integrated communications team, you’ll work on everything from crafting communications plans and media messaging to designing digital and social media content. You will work closely with Public Health teams to provide the public with easy access to information about programs and services that advance the health and well-being of all Waterloo Region residents. This is your opportunity to showcase your creativity, strategic thinking, and ability to connect with people, all while helping to ensure our messaging is clear, timely, and impactful.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES

• Coordinates with management on communications strategy and related activities to support departmental projects, programs and services as assigned.
• Produces/coordinates a range of communications materials for internal and external audiences (e.g., advertising, press releases, stories, blog posts, newsletters, social media posts, flyers, brochures, signage, hand-outs). Compiles information from staff on program and service offerings and creates plans and materials for dissemination across various channels. Reviews promotional proofs and recommends edits. Ensures materials adhere to guidelines, design standards, branding and have copyright clearance.
• Writes press releases, blog posts, social media content, newsletters. Maintains and updates relevant webpages. Responds to/redirects inquiries. Monitors relevant social and website use and recommends/executes content updates, new pages/sections, and layout changes and enhanced approaches to reaching target audiences.
• Interacts with creative multimedia services for graphic design and printing requests, and corporate communications regarding media releases and new projects. In consultation with clients, develops and sources visual content for health promotion and social marketing initiatives (e.g., photography, video).
• Consults corporate communications regarding problems/updates to social media and web tools.
• Reviews and summarizes communications analytics to improve programs and campaigns.
• Contributes to the development of new/revised policies and procedures related to health communications. Assists to monitor compliance with new/revised policies, procedures, and standards for communication, marketing, and promotional issues; provides related expertise to staff.
• Assists with planning and promotional/communications activities for special events.
• Fosters a client-centric relationship amongst all divisions within the department and across the organization.
• Periodically provides guidance and training to administrative staff on uploading/maintaining program information on website and intranet. With supervisor, advises management, staff, and community partners regarding marketing, design, and communication issues. Assigns, checks, and monitors the work of students
• Works with staff of educational institutions, physicians, service committees, and community agencies, other government/ministries on collaborative projects.
• Has a P-card.
• Plans and prioritizes work according to established management priorities. Uses creativity to visualize design layout, bring vague ideas/concepts to fruition, anticipate problems or limitations, and recommend alternatives. Provides expertise and best practice in communications. Analyses client needs, applies project management and planning skills, investigates and tests web systems, scenarios, and software issues. Consults with management regarding controversial situations/complaints and issues outside procedure.
• Performs related duties as assigned.