Digital Communications Specialist

Job Description

NATURE OF WORK

The Multimedia and Digital Communications Specialist supports the District’s mission of protecting life and property by producing creative, high-quality communications for the public, media, and internal audiences. This position focuses on developing video, photo, and social media content that informs and engages the community.

The Specialist collaborates closely with the Public Information Officer and District leadership to manage external communications, produce digital and print materials, and serve as a spokesperson as needed. The position requires advanced skills in video production, social media strategy and analytics, and strong written communication.  This position reports directly to the fire chief.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

Plan, film, and edit high-quality, story-driven video content for social media and internal communications, using a variety of cameras (DSLRs, GoPros, and smartphones) and professional non-linear editing software.

Capture still images to support digital storytelling and press materials.

Write, edit, and distribute press releases, and media advisories in accordance with Associated Press (AP) style.

Manage and create content for West Metro Fire Rescue’s social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, X / Twitter, Threads, TikTok, LinkedIn, YouTube, Nextdoor, and others.

Monitor social media channels, respond to inquiries, and track engagement metrics to help guide strategy and improve audience reach.

Support and coordinate media relations, including on-scene response during emergencies, media interviews, and story development with local and national outlets.

Assist in developing and maintaining the District’s website.

Collaborate with internal departments to gather information, plan campaigns, and ensure consistent messaging across all communication channels, including supporting District recruitment and hiring initiatives.

Serve as a back-up Public Information Officer during emergencies or large incidents and participate in the on-call rotation to ensure 24 / 7 coverage.

Coordinates with the public information officer on efforts designed to enhance fire district community relations through the dissemination of information to the community.

Assists the public information officer during events such as citizen recognition, town meetings, open houses, and canvassing projects.

Manage the photo / video and news clipping libraries.

Assists personnel with photo and video needs for presentations, trainings, and other communication activities.

Seek solutions to problems in order to determine and implement new time saving and / or cost saving ideas.

Works with minimal supervision.

Regular and predictable attendance is required.

Other duties as assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of open records laws, criminal justice and privacy acts as they apply to media production and social media.

Knowledge of District organization, operations, and procedures.

Thorough knowledge of internet communications and the ability to enhance District communication through social media platforms, content development, and production.

Knowledge of promotional and marketing strategies.

Experienced user of various software programs such as the Microsoft Office Suite.

Skilled user of content management systems in order to create, edit, archive, collaborate, report, publish, distribute, and inform users making graphic user interface(s) user friendly.

Extensive experience in nonlinear video editing software.

Extensive experience in video production.

Strong organizational skills with accuracy and attention to detail.

Ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing to all audiences.

Ability to conduct radio, television, and print interviews.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and citizens.

Ability to handle sensitive situations with tact and diplomacy.

Ability to judge news worthiness.

Ability to troubleshoot minor computer and software based technical problems and implement solutions.

Ability to make presentations.

Ability to operate with limited supervision and make appropriate decisions when required.

Ability to meet imposed deadlines and to effectively prioritize assigned projects.

Ability to present a positive attitude in dealing with the public, employees, and elected officials.

Ability to understand and follow moderately complex oral and written instruction.

Ability to remain calm under time-sensitive pressure situations and assignments.

Ability to problem solve, troubleshoot, and work through routine challenges.

Ability to interpret and follow directions, instructions, and manuals.

Ability to effectively use good judgment at all times.

Obtain FEMA IS-100, IS-200, IS-700, and IS-800 within one year of hire.

Obtain NWCG S130-S190 within one year of hire.

Obtain FEMA G290 Basic Public Information Officer or NWCG S203 Introduction to Incident Information within one year of hire.

MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT DIRECTLY USED

Position operates computer terminals, keyboards, typewriter, telephone, fax machine, photocopy machine, calculator, postage scale and meter, books, files, paper shredder, video and still cameras, lighting and other video production equipment, presentation audiovisual equipment, and a District vehicle.

JOB REQUIREMENTS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE

ENTRY LEVEL

• High School Diploma or G.E.D.
• Associates degree, preferably with coursework in communications, journalism, marketing, or graphic design
• Three years’ experience in video production, marketing, multimedia production or related field
• Knowledge of video production and graphic design
• Strong communication skills
• Strong ability to multitask
• Ability to meet timelines while working under stressful conditions and changing environments
• Excellent driving record with the ability to drive in all weather conditions

MASTERY

OTHER NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Must be at least 18 years of age. Must possess a valid Colorado driver's license (or be eligible to obtain by time of employment) and exhibit a safe driving record. Failure to maintain a valid driver’s license and safe driving record is subject to Administrative Procedure #4104 Operation and Use of District Vehicles. Must successfully pass a background investigation and polygraph examination.

The digital communications specialist must demonstrate the ability to meet the physical demands of the job. This includes periods of standing, sitting, moving, and lifting materials up to 50 pounds. The digital communications specialist may be exposed to periods of high activity and high stress under demanding conditions. The position requires a great deal of communication with District employees, the public, customers, media outlets, and outside agencies. While performing the duties of this job, the candidate is regularly required to sit, talk, and listen. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms, stoop, kneel, crouch, climb ladders, and crawl.

The digital communications specialist must be able to drive effectively in adverse weather conditions. Must be able to operate carts, dollies, ladders, lifts, and all media / video production equipment. If this person desires to deploy on a National Wildland Coordinator Group incident management team or as part of the FEMA Urban Search and Rescue system, he or she must pass the 12 MET requirement annually.

If you are not a resident of Colorado, you may be eligible for a relocation allowance of up to $5,000.

Compensation details : 80000-90000 Yearly Salary

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