Summary

The Communications Specialist serves as a key operational partner to the Public Affairs Director, supporting day-to-day communication needs across departments while maintaining a consistent, transparent and trusted voice for Mesa County.

Description

At Mesa County, we are dedicated to ensuring that our actions align with our mission, vision, and values. We strive to be an efficient and innovative organization, and take pride in the work we do to benefit our community. We hold ourselves and our leaders to high standards and believe in the power of collaboration and partnerships to create sustainable solutions for our residents. We are committed to being a responsible and accountable organization that puts the needs of our community first.

Our Vision: We are the builders of the best place to live, work and play for all generations.

Our Mission: We provide the infrastructure so you can live the life you want

Our Values:
● Excellence
We set the pace with great employees.
● Collaboration
We work together, leading toward a shared purpose.
● Transparency
We are open in our decision-making to build trust.
● Communication
We listen to each other, we communicate openly and we value everyone’s input.
● Principled
We stick to what we believe and are innovative in our approach.
● Servant Leadership
We put our community first.
● Proactive
We are active problem solvers for a better future.

JOB SUMMARY

This position supports Mesa County’s Public Affairs function by developing, coordinating and delivering clear, accurate and timely communication to residents, media and internal stakeholders. The role focuses on translating complex government information into accessible, meaningful content that helps residents understand county decisions, programs and services.

We are seeking a professional who is a strong writer, detail-oriented, responsive and able to exercise sound judgment in a fast-paced public information environment. This role requires professionalism, sound judgment, and the ability to communicate with accuracy, integrity and respect for the public.

The ideal candidate is motivated by public service and takes pride in helping residents understand and access their local government.

(The following duty statements are illustrative of the essential functions of the job and do not include other non-essential or marginal duties that may be required. Mesa County reserves the right to modify or change the duties or essential functions of this job at any time. All responsibilities may not be performed by all incumbents.)

Coordinate and execute communication across county platforms (including website, social media, video and presentations) to ensure information is clear, accurate and timely.
Write clear, concise and accurate content for public, media and internal audiences in alignment with Mesa County standards.
Translate complex or technical information into clear, accurate and accessible public information for residents.
Support county departments in communicating programs, services and initiatives clearly and consistently.
Respond to time-sensitive communication needs, including media inquiries, emerging issues and public information requests.
Ensure all public-facing communication meets digital accessibility standards, including writing alt text, video captioning and formatting content to meet ADA compliance requirements.
Exercise sound judgment when handling sensitive or complex information in a public-facing environment.
Review and apply Mesa County communication standards, best practices and guidelines to ensure consistency and accuracy.
Create and manage content across county platforms, including website updates, social media, newsletters and presentations.
Maintain and update Mesa County webpages to ensure information is current, accurate and accessible.
Develop multimedia content and campaigns that support public understanding, awareness and engagement.
Support internal communication efforts to ensure employees receive clear, consistent and timely information.
Respond to general public inquiries, comments and feedback through phone, email and digital platforms.
Research and prepare talking points and background information to support staff and media communication.
Assist in coordinating media interviews and maintaining relationships with media partners.
Monitor and track media coverage to ensure accurate and consistent public messaging.
Manage multiple projects and priorities while maintaining accuracy and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Collaborate with departments, leadership and external partners to support communication needs across the organization.
Serve as a spokesperson for the organization as assigned, supporting the Public Affairs Director.
Support communication during emergencies or high-priority county issues as needed.
Perform other related duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
This position requires standing, stooping, sitting, bending, twisting, and lifting up to 25 pounds.

Work is generally confined to a standard office environment

In compliance with the Equal Pay for Equal Work Act the following items can be used as a determining factor in the starting and ongoing wage of an employee working in this position:

A seniority system that rewards employees based on length of employment.

A merit system that rewards employees for exceptional job performance.

Education, training, or experience to the extent that they are reasonably related to the work in question.

This position is eligible for the Mesa County benefit package which includes the following: