Communications Officer

Halifax Public Libraries invites INTERNAL and EXTERNAL applications for the full-time, term position of Communications Officer in the Marketing and Communications team located at Alderney Gate Public Library.

This is a unionized position. Preference will be given to internal applicants from the NSUPE Local 14 bargaining unit.

Halifax Public Libraries is an inclusive employer committed to employment equity and building a diverse workforce. We encourage all qualified persons to apply and self-identify. We will accommodate applicants' needs under the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act throughout all stages of the recruitment and selection process. If you require an accommodation, we will confidentially address your needs.

ABOUT MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
The Marketing & Communications department at Halifax Public Libraries is small and mighty. You'll be part of a team that relies heavily on teamwork and collaboration in a fast-paced work environment. The Department works directly with Library Senior Management, staff, partners, and community members to find innovative ways to reach our community and highlight library news, events, collections, and initiatives. Our Marketing & Communications team members are enthusiastic, collaborative and creative.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
As a Communications Officer, at Halifax Public Libraries you will:

• Write original copy for and edit Library event listings (online)
• Lead the development and implementation of media relations plans
• Research and draft blog content, such as author interviews, community features, and how to resources
• Write and distribute press releases, public service announcements, and other public communications
• Act as communications advisor by providing media relations advice and coaching to management team
• Work with the M&C team to plan and promote special events and library programs/campaigns
• Work with staff and media to coordinate and promote special events (e.g., opening ceremonies, programs and launching of new services
• Coordinate and manage marketing and communications campaigns and projects
• Proofread and edit print and online communications materials
• Manage branch closure procedures, including changes to all library phone messages, social media updates, and website updates when the library is closed due to a holiday, emergency or storm; ensures that voice mail messages are restored promptly when library re-opens
• Contribute to social media strategy and planning
• Frequently develop social media content, and monitors multiple social media accounts
• Identify proactive opportunities to promote Library and its services
• Work with M&C team and senior management to determine content for annual reports: writes and edits annual report submissions
• Conduct media monitoring and produces monthly media logs
• Ensure "News" section of the Library's website is kept up-to-date
• Support and show leadership by working to health and safety standards, follows health and safety policies and procedures and encourages colleagues to work to the same standards by reporting incidents, hazardous conditions and improvement possibilities.

DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES?
Education & Experience:

Related Degree plus one (1) year related experience

OR

Two-years related Post-secondary Diploma plus three (3) years related experience

Specific Knowledge & Technical Experience requirements:

• Demonstrated skill in technical and creative writing
• Editing experience
• Media experience
• Demonstrated ability in writing for the web
• Social media management and content creation experience

Assets:

• Advertising copywriting experience
• CMS experience (WordPress)
• Google Analytics experience

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Sitting for more than 80% of the time
• Focus and attention to details
• Considerable computer use
• Mental demands of responding to media inquires and interviews