Engagement Officer

Bismarck, City of•Bismarck, ND

About The Position

The Engagement Officer disseminates the City of Bismarck’s public information through available platforms, including its website and social media, and helps ensure Communications Division programs, activities, and assets align with the organization’s values, goals, and mission. Outreach informs and engages residents, the Board of Commissioners, city staff, community partners, and visitors. The role develops communication strategies and content, manages online engagement, supports media relations, and assists with internal and external communications. Under the direction of the City’s Communication Strategist, the Engagement Officer supports emergency communications and serves as a backup Administrative Public Information Officer when directed. The position also evaluates engagement performance, supports city-sponsored events and public engagement initiatives, and prepares communications and materials for city leadership and departments.

Requirements

Deep understanding of website, content management, and social media platforms.
Strong writing, editing, and communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to adapt to changing technology and tasks.
Knowledge and competency commonly associated with a bachelor’s degree in a course of study related to the occupational field.
Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties, usually associated with an apprenticeship or internship, or one to two years in a similar position.
Possession of, or ability to readily obtain, a valid North Dakota driver’s license for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.
Willingness to pursue continuing education through organizations such as FEMA, TEEX, EMI, or CDP.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Knowledge of website administration, content management, and social media management principles.
Knowledge of analytics tools, such as Google Analytics and social media insights, to evaluate engagement performance.
Knowledge of SEO and keyword research best practices.
Knowledge of computers and job-related software, including Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suites.
Knowledge of graphic design and multimedia content.
Knowledge of writing and editing techniques, including journalism principles and practices, across a variety of platforms.
Knowledge of public communication relations principles, techniques, and practices.
Knowledge of modern office principles.
Knowledge of government’s role, the context in which the city operates, and the roles of City Commissioners and staff.
Knowledge of crisis communication strategies.
Knowledge of relevant federal and state laws, city ordinances, and department policies and procedures.
Knowledge of problem-solving, prioritization, organization, and planning tactics.
Knowledge of oral and written communication and presentation best practices.
Ability to exercise interpersonal sensitivity, tact, and diplomacy in public contact.
Ability to apply analytical and critical thinking and attention to detail while performing repetitive tasks.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with municipal government operations is preferred.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement communication strategies, schedules, and campaigns aligned with the City of Bismarck’s brand and strategic plan.
Monitor and respond to user comments and messages to foster relationships and an active community.
Recognize opportunities to create or improve innovative and engaging content.
Assist with social media, website content, and other internal- and external-facing content; stay informed about current trends, tools, and best practices.
Support liaison work between the City and news media by answering inquiries, coordinating or participating in interviews, pitching stories, and managing media contacts and relationships.
Assist city departments with media coordination, talking points, messaging, and other support under the direction of the City’s Communication Strategist.
Support emergency communications by producing clear, effective, and timely communications under the direction of the City’s Communication Strategist; serve as backup Administrative Public Information Officer when directed.
Assist with evaluating and supporting emergency and crisis communication plans as requested.
Compile city data to support the goals and objectives of City Commissioners and departments.
Track key performance metrics, summarize and analyze data to promote projects, services, and events, and direct public inquiries to appropriate departments and information sources.
Analyze engagement strategies and recommend improvements.
Prepare and edit communications, documents, and presentations for the City Commission, Administration Department, and other city departments, including materials supporting dealings with government officials and community groups.
Support internal city communications and provide content for external platforms and publications.
Support planning and promotion of city-sponsored events and public engagement initiatives.
Maintain professional relationships and attend local and statewide meetings.
Perform related duties in accordance with city policies and procedures, while articulating the city’s mission, vision, and values; perform other related duties as assigned.