Town of Normal
Communications & Marketing Specialist
Town of Normal, Chicago, Illinois, United States, 60290
Salary:
$56,889.00 - $66,928.00 Annually
Location :
IL 61761, IL
Job Type:
Full-time
Job Number:
391
Department:
Communications Department
Opening Date:
09/16/2024
Closing Date:
10/3/2024 5:00 PM Central
Job Description
This is a full time, overtime exempt position. The starting salary is $56,889 to $66,928 and depends upon qualifications; full salary range is $56,889 to $90,468. The Town Communications Department is seeking applicants who are passionate about serving the community to join their team in the Communications & Marketing Specialist role. This individual reports to the Director of Communications and Community Relations and is primarily responsible for planning, coordinating and implementing municipal communications, public relations and marketing strategies for the Town of Normal. This position works closely with all departments to organize and coordinate public information and public outreach through written and verbal communication, using all forms of media and technology including print, digital and social media. This position is also responsible for coordination of public presentation materials, audio-visual productions and graphic design materials. The Town welcomes candidates who have a passion for public service and civic engagement.
Duties/Essential Job Functions
Consults with departments across the organization to identify communication objectives; creates effective communication/marketing plans to meet objectives and share media and public information messages that inform and engage audiences.Effectively, creatively and innovatively crafts, publishes and maintains organizational messaging (e.g., communication/marketing plans, website content, advertising copy, press releases, social media posts, promotional and marketing materials, paid media, etc.) which explains complex topics, elevates community engagement and further develops informed, engaged and invested audiences.Develops, manages and oversees the quality and execution of communication/marketing plans, working collaboratively with others to meet communication and organizational objectives.Ensures materials communicate the right message to the appropriate audience and align with strategic positioning. Reviews and proofs content for Associated Press Style, grammar and readability. Collaborates with others to ensure information about and involving the Town is communicated accurately and in a timely fashion.Creates strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, serving as an advocate for the Town and its prioritiesAssists and consults on the creation of presentation materials, including print, graphic, digital and audio-visual, to be used by municipal representatives. Identifies and protects the Town of Normal organizational brands, logos, trademarks and symbols.Researches and stays current on trends and best practices to enhance and increase community engagement. Serves as internal consultant and information resource/content trainer to Town staff responsible for social media engagement, website content publishing and accessibility standards.Advises the Director of Communications and Community Relations (and other leaders, as needed) on matters related to communications, marketing, community and public relations. Creates and presents recommendations on issue management strategies, as directed.Supervises communication intern(s), including interviewing and recommending candidates, overseeing work assignments and providing feedback which help interns gain real-world experience.Performs other duties as assigned.Required Knowledge, Skill and Abilities
Excellent written and oral communications skills; excellent skill in writing and developing informational and promotional content, including (but not limited to) communication & marketing plans, news releases, social media posts, website content and media talking points.Ability to effectively establish positive, productive working relationships with team, internal business partners, media, community organizations, the business community, other key stakeholders.Ability to responsibly handle confidential material and information to effectively, legally and ethically represent the municipality.Ability to analyze and make sound recommendations on communications strategies, public affairs and community relations issues.Experience successfully developing and implementing project communications, public relations and community relations plans that align appropriately to the initiative's goals, communications objectives and the organizational vision.Experience with relevant software applications required (e.g., social media platforms, Microsoft Office); experience with Adobe Creative Cloud is beneficial.Effective experience pitching the media and responding to media inquiries; strong understanding of making paid media buys and advertising placements.Strong skills in effectively using/implementing social media applications, identifying and managing social media trends and effectively representing the municipality via social media.Ability to interpret internal business partner needs and apply knowledge of communications strategy and message development to meet organizational goals.Strong creativity and energy to facilitate successful communications, public relations and marketing strategies.Ability to perform a variety of tasks without constant supervision.
Desirable Training and Experience
A bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, marketing or related field, and three to five years of experience in marketing, media relations, journalism or a related field, or any other training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the job requirements.
Town of Normal Employee Benefits Summary
Progressive Salary AdministrationAutomatic increases occur at six months (end of probation), 12 months and 24 months. Employees then fit into our annual, April merit step plan until employees reach the top of the position's salary range. For classified employees the salary schedule may be modified for cost of living adjustments.
Group Health PlanThe Town has a comprehensive self-funded medical plan with UMR Preferred Provider Option (PPO). Employees may choose among two plan design options: a traditional PPO plan with a $500/person and $1000/family deductible or a High Deductible Health Plan with a Health Savings Account (HSA) component.
The Town currently pays the monthly insurance premium for full time employees who participate in the wellness program. The Town may contribute to employee HSAs based on an employee's plan selection. Dependent coverage is available with the Town contributing 50% toward the dependent premium.
Group Dental PlanThe Town has a comprehensive self-funded dental plan that provides payment of 80% of eligible expenses for preventive and 70% of basic & major care. Preventive dental benefits are not subject to the deductible. The Town pays the monthly premium for full time employees. The maximum benefit is $2,000 per person per calendar year and covers orthodontics, 50% up to $2000 per lifetime per covered individual. Dependent coverage is available with the Town contributing 50% toward the premium.
Vision PlanVSP is the provider of the Town's vision plan. There are two plans for employees to choose from. The plans cover a portion of the cost of exams, contacts, lenses and frames. Refer to for more information about benefits, discounts and doctor listings.
Pension ProgramsThe Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund () is the pension system for all classified civilian employees. Retirement benefits are based on two factors, the years of service and each member's highest 48 months of earnings as an IMRF member. This plan includes short and long-term disability and death benefits. Employees contribute about 4.5% of earnings annually in addition to the Employer's contribution. By state statute, sworn Police Officers and Firefighters are eligible for pension programs administered by independent pension boards.
Deferred Compensation and Roth IRA PlansThe Town offers a voluntary 457 retirement savings plan through Per IRS regulation, employees have the option of contributing a portion of their salary up to a predetermined dollar limit in effect for that year or 100% of gross salary, whichever is less. Town employees also have the option of making Roth IRA contributions through payroll deduction.
Flexible Spending PlanThis is a salary reduction plan in accordance with IRS regulations. Participants selecting pre-tax payment of their dependent health and dental premiums, day care expenses or non-covered medical expenses will have those payroll deductions sheltered from taxable income.
Life InsuranceThe Town provides a $30,000 term policy with Accidental Death & Dismemberment coverage to all full time employees. Optional dependent coverage for spouse ($10,000), and children over 6 months ($3,000) is available. The Town offers two voluntary life insurance programs. One is a decreasing term life insurance program sponsored by IMRF. The other is a term life program from The Standard that can be purchased for employee, spouse and dependent children. Evidence of insurability may be required.
HolidaysEleven paid holidays are provided each year. They are New Year's Day, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day and Day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and one Floating Holiday.
Personal Convenience DaysFull time and regular part time employees receive three paid days per fiscal year. New hires receive a pro-rated share of PC time at hire. Increases of one additional day occur after reaching 20 years of service then again after reaching 25 years of service.
Vacation LeaveFull time employees earn vacation monthly based on the following:
Less than 5 years of service 2 weeksBetween 5-9 years of service 3 weeksMore than 10 years of service 4 weeks
Regular employees working less than full time accrue a prorated share of leave time.
Sick LeaveClassified employees earn sick leave at the rate of one day per month, twelve days per year. Maximum accumulation is 120 days. Employees may use sick leave for personal illness, injury, or doctor's appointments. Employees may also use sick leave for needed care of a spouse, dependent less than 18 years of age, or parent.
Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA)Pursuant to the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1992, all eligible employees may receive up to 12 weeks of FMLA leave for qualifying events.
Parental LeaveEligible employees may take up to four weeks of paid leave to provide care immediately following the birth or adoption of a minor child.
Education/TrainingFull time employees may be eligible to apply for tuition reimbursement. For pre-approved classes or courses the Town will pay up to $2500.00 per calendar year. Some positions may have opportunities to attend conferences, workshops, or other on-going professional development.
Employee Assistance ProgramThe Town's EAP provides professional counseling services and specialty referral for employees and dependents. Services include meeting with employees or dependents to determine the proper course of treatment, providing some counseling services free of charge, or referring the client to an appropriate outside counselor. The Town's health plan may pay for a portion of counseling services.
Wellness ProgramThe Wellness Program includes an annual health risk appraisal screening. The Town also offers a wellness program to all employees covered on the group health insurance. This program provides fun, interactive challenges, in addition to access to personal health coaching, a trainer, and a dietician.
Employee Credit UnionThe Town supports the Normal City Employees Federal Credit Union (NCEFCU). NCEFCU provides an alternative institution for personal savings through payroll deductions. Employee/members may be eligible for a signature loan and for collateralized loans.
Miscellaneous BenefitsOther benefits may include an Employee Appreciation Luncheon, Length of Service recognition, Holiday Gift Certificates, Employee Holiday Luncheon, employee outings and other tokens of appreciation.
*This is a summary highlighting some of the Town benefits. It is intended as an overview. The Town reserves the right to amend or end any or all benefits under its control. Benefits for Police and Fire employees covered by a Collective Bargaining Agreement are detailed in the C.B.A. These agreements must be consulted to ascertain any benefit eligibility or benefit details. For specific questions on benefits contact the Human Resources Department.
$56,889.00 - $66,928.00 Annually
Location :
IL 61761, IL
Job Type:
Full-time
Job Number:
391
Department:
Communications Department
Opening Date:
09/16/2024
Closing Date:
10/3/2024 5:00 PM Central
Job Description
This is a full time, overtime exempt position. The starting salary is $56,889 to $66,928 and depends upon qualifications; full salary range is $56,889 to $90,468. The Town Communications Department is seeking applicants who are passionate about serving the community to join their team in the Communications & Marketing Specialist role. This individual reports to the Director of Communications and Community Relations and is primarily responsible for planning, coordinating and implementing municipal communications, public relations and marketing strategies for the Town of Normal. This position works closely with all departments to organize and coordinate public information and public outreach through written and verbal communication, using all forms of media and technology including print, digital and social media. This position is also responsible for coordination of public presentation materials, audio-visual productions and graphic design materials. The Town welcomes candidates who have a passion for public service and civic engagement.
Duties/Essential Job Functions
Consults with departments across the organization to identify communication objectives; creates effective communication/marketing plans to meet objectives and share media and public information messages that inform and engage audiences.Effectively, creatively and innovatively crafts, publishes and maintains organizational messaging (e.g., communication/marketing plans, website content, advertising copy, press releases, social media posts, promotional and marketing materials, paid media, etc.) which explains complex topics, elevates community engagement and further develops informed, engaged and invested audiences.Develops, manages and oversees the quality and execution of communication/marketing plans, working collaboratively with others to meet communication and organizational objectives.Ensures materials communicate the right message to the appropriate audience and align with strategic positioning. Reviews and proofs content for Associated Press Style, grammar and readability. Collaborates with others to ensure information about and involving the Town is communicated accurately and in a timely fashion.Creates strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, serving as an advocate for the Town and its prioritiesAssists and consults on the creation of presentation materials, including print, graphic, digital and audio-visual, to be used by municipal representatives. Identifies and protects the Town of Normal organizational brands, logos, trademarks and symbols.Researches and stays current on trends and best practices to enhance and increase community engagement. Serves as internal consultant and information resource/content trainer to Town staff responsible for social media engagement, website content publishing and accessibility standards.Advises the Director of Communications and Community Relations (and other leaders, as needed) on matters related to communications, marketing, community and public relations. Creates and presents recommendations on issue management strategies, as directed.Supervises communication intern(s), including interviewing and recommending candidates, overseeing work assignments and providing feedback which help interns gain real-world experience.Performs other duties as assigned.Required Knowledge, Skill and Abilities
Excellent written and oral communications skills; excellent skill in writing and developing informational and promotional content, including (but not limited to) communication & marketing plans, news releases, social media posts, website content and media talking points.Ability to effectively establish positive, productive working relationships with team, internal business partners, media, community organizations, the business community, other key stakeholders.Ability to responsibly handle confidential material and information to effectively, legally and ethically represent the municipality.Ability to analyze and make sound recommendations on communications strategies, public affairs and community relations issues.Experience successfully developing and implementing project communications, public relations and community relations plans that align appropriately to the initiative's goals, communications objectives and the organizational vision.Experience with relevant software applications required (e.g., social media platforms, Microsoft Office); experience with Adobe Creative Cloud is beneficial.Effective experience pitching the media and responding to media inquiries; strong understanding of making paid media buys and advertising placements.Strong skills in effectively using/implementing social media applications, identifying and managing social media trends and effectively representing the municipality via social media.Ability to interpret internal business partner needs and apply knowledge of communications strategy and message development to meet organizational goals.Strong creativity and energy to facilitate successful communications, public relations and marketing strategies.Ability to perform a variety of tasks without constant supervision.
Desirable Training and Experience
A bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, marketing or related field, and three to five years of experience in marketing, media relations, journalism or a related field, or any other training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the job requirements.
Town of Normal Employee Benefits Summary
Progressive Salary AdministrationAutomatic increases occur at six months (end of probation), 12 months and 24 months. Employees then fit into our annual, April merit step plan until employees reach the top of the position's salary range. For classified employees the salary schedule may be modified for cost of living adjustments.
Group Health PlanThe Town has a comprehensive self-funded medical plan with UMR Preferred Provider Option (PPO). Employees may choose among two plan design options: a traditional PPO plan with a $500/person and $1000/family deductible or a High Deductible Health Plan with a Health Savings Account (HSA) component.
The Town currently pays the monthly insurance premium for full time employees who participate in the wellness program. The Town may contribute to employee HSAs based on an employee's plan selection. Dependent coverage is available with the Town contributing 50% toward the dependent premium.
Group Dental PlanThe Town has a comprehensive self-funded dental plan that provides payment of 80% of eligible expenses for preventive and 70% of basic & major care. Preventive dental benefits are not subject to the deductible. The Town pays the monthly premium for full time employees. The maximum benefit is $2,000 per person per calendar year and covers orthodontics, 50% up to $2000 per lifetime per covered individual. Dependent coverage is available with the Town contributing 50% toward the premium.
Vision PlanVSP is the provider of the Town's vision plan. There are two plans for employees to choose from. The plans cover a portion of the cost of exams, contacts, lenses and frames. Refer to for more information about benefits, discounts and doctor listings.
Pension ProgramsThe Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund () is the pension system for all classified civilian employees. Retirement benefits are based on two factors, the years of service and each member's highest 48 months of earnings as an IMRF member. This plan includes short and long-term disability and death benefits. Employees contribute about 4.5% of earnings annually in addition to the Employer's contribution. By state statute, sworn Police Officers and Firefighters are eligible for pension programs administered by independent pension boards.
Deferred Compensation and Roth IRA PlansThe Town offers a voluntary 457 retirement savings plan through Per IRS regulation, employees have the option of contributing a portion of their salary up to a predetermined dollar limit in effect for that year or 100% of gross salary, whichever is less. Town employees also have the option of making Roth IRA contributions through payroll deduction.
Flexible Spending PlanThis is a salary reduction plan in accordance with IRS regulations. Participants selecting pre-tax payment of their dependent health and dental premiums, day care expenses or non-covered medical expenses will have those payroll deductions sheltered from taxable income.
Life InsuranceThe Town provides a $30,000 term policy with Accidental Death & Dismemberment coverage to all full time employees. Optional dependent coverage for spouse ($10,000), and children over 6 months ($3,000) is available. The Town offers two voluntary life insurance programs. One is a decreasing term life insurance program sponsored by IMRF. The other is a term life program from The Standard that can be purchased for employee, spouse and dependent children. Evidence of insurability may be required.
HolidaysEleven paid holidays are provided each year. They are New Year's Day, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day and Day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and one Floating Holiday.
Personal Convenience DaysFull time and regular part time employees receive three paid days per fiscal year. New hires receive a pro-rated share of PC time at hire. Increases of one additional day occur after reaching 20 years of service then again after reaching 25 years of service.
Vacation LeaveFull time employees earn vacation monthly based on the following:
Less than 5 years of service 2 weeksBetween 5-9 years of service 3 weeksMore than 10 years of service 4 weeks
Regular employees working less than full time accrue a prorated share of leave time.
Sick LeaveClassified employees earn sick leave at the rate of one day per month, twelve days per year. Maximum accumulation is 120 days. Employees may use sick leave for personal illness, injury, or doctor's appointments. Employees may also use sick leave for needed care of a spouse, dependent less than 18 years of age, or parent.
Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA)Pursuant to the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1992, all eligible employees may receive up to 12 weeks of FMLA leave for qualifying events.
Parental LeaveEligible employees may take up to four weeks of paid leave to provide care immediately following the birth or adoption of a minor child.
Education/TrainingFull time employees may be eligible to apply for tuition reimbursement. For pre-approved classes or courses the Town will pay up to $2500.00 per calendar year. Some positions may have opportunities to attend conferences, workshops, or other on-going professional development.
Employee Assistance ProgramThe Town's EAP provides professional counseling services and specialty referral for employees and dependents. Services include meeting with employees or dependents to determine the proper course of treatment, providing some counseling services free of charge, or referring the client to an appropriate outside counselor. The Town's health plan may pay for a portion of counseling services.
Wellness ProgramThe Wellness Program includes an annual health risk appraisal screening. The Town also offers a wellness program to all employees covered on the group health insurance. This program provides fun, interactive challenges, in addition to access to personal health coaching, a trainer, and a dietician.
Employee Credit UnionThe Town supports the Normal City Employees Federal Credit Union (NCEFCU). NCEFCU provides an alternative institution for personal savings through payroll deductions. Employee/members may be eligible for a signature loan and for collateralized loans.
Miscellaneous BenefitsOther benefits may include an Employee Appreciation Luncheon, Length of Service recognition, Holiday Gift Certificates, Employee Holiday Luncheon, employee outings and other tokens of appreciation.
*This is a summary highlighting some of the Town benefits. It is intended as an overview. The Town reserves the right to amend or end any or all benefits under its control. Benefits for Police and Fire employees covered by a Collective Bargaining Agreement are detailed in the C.B.A. These agreements must be consulted to ascertain any benefit eligibility or benefit details. For specific questions on benefits contact the Human Resources Department.