Knox County Communication Specialist - Digital Media

Knox County JFS

Job Description:

Knox County Job and Family Services is a Quadruple combined organization serving Knox County through each of our four agencies; Children and Adult Protective Services, Child Support, Public Assistance, and Workforce/Ohio Means Jobs.

The Communications Specialist will develop and manage communications that advance the mission, programs, services, and impact of Knox County Job and Family Services (KCJFS). This position oversees the organization's internal and public communication strategies including messaging, press releases, social media platforms, website management, brand, digital content, and community engagement activities.

Working across our combined agencies, the Communication Specialist translates complex information into clear, accessible, and compelling content for clients, community members, donors, volunteers, partners, funders, and other stakeholders. The role requires strong writing, digital communications, project management, and relationship-building skills, as well as a commitment to respectful, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive storytelling.

Department: Administration I Employment Status: Full-Time I Schedule: M-F 8am-4pm

Annual Salary: $48,483 FLSA: Exempt/Classified/Non -Bargaining I Deadline: November 11, 2026

Location: 117 E. High St. Mt. Vernon, OH 43050

Knox JFS offers a robust benefit package including, paid vacation, personal leave and sick leave. Health care, dental, vision, life insurance, pension, paid holidays and deferred compensation plans. Employee Assistance Program.

Communications

Develop and implement an annual communications plan aligned with organizational priorities
Maintain calendar covering programs, events, campaigns, and organizational announcements
Identify opportunities to increase awareness, build community trust, and expand engagement
Advise staff and leadership on communications strategy, messaging, and audience needs
Coordinate communications projects across programs, development, leadership, and agencies
Adhere to organizational policies and applicable laws, maintain confidentiality
Practice consent in photo/media releases, intellectual property, and records management
Use of Al must be disclosed and monitored for accuracy

Content Development

Create email campaigns, website content, impact stories, press releases, talking points
Translate program information and data into clear, audience-friendly content
Maintain consistent messaging, voice, tone, and editorial standards

Social Media Management

Manage organization's social media accounts, content planning, creation, scheduling,
Create platform-appropriate copy, graphics, photography, and short-form video content
Track platform performance, monitor comments and plan appropriate responses
Maintain protocols for moderation, privacy, consent, crisis response, and account security

Website Management

Maintain and update website pages, program information, events, news, staff information,
Apply search engine optimization, accessibility, usability, and content-quality-practices
Monitor website analytics and use findings to improve content and user experience

Brand Management

Oversee organization's brand identity and communications standards
Maintain brand guidelines, templates, logos, images, messaging and communications resources
Ensure consistent use of the brand across digital, print, event, and partner materials
Support staff and partners in applying brand and messaging standards

Community and Stakeholder Engagement

Develop communications that engage clients, volunteers, partners, and community members
Promote programs, services, events, fundraising initiatives, and volunteer opportunities
Build relationships with community organizations, media contacts, and other stakeholders
Gather audience feedback and use it to strengthen communications and engagement

Media and Public Relations

Draft for approval; press releases, statements, materials, and responses to media inquiries
Monitor media coverage and public conversations related to the organization and its mission
Support crisis communications in coordination with organizational leadership

Measurement and Administration

Establish communications goals and track indicators such as reach, engagement, website traffic, email performance, media coverage, and conversions
Prepare regular performance reports and recommend adjustments
Manage communications tools, subscriptions, files, permissions, and digital asset libraries
Support budget development and monitor communications-related expenses
Perform other duties that support the organization's mission and evolving needs
Act as backup to agency IT coordinator and perform any/all other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, journalism, public relations, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience

Two years' experience in organizational communications, marketing, or a related role

Strong writing, editing, proofreading, and storytelling skills

Experience maintaining organizational websites and social media accounts

Ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines with attention to detail

Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate across roles and departments

Sound judgment when handling confidential, sensitive, or potentially high-risk information

Valid driver's license, acceptable driving record, and auto insurance in per county policy

Mission-centered communication: that connects to the organization's purpose and community

Strategic thinking: Communication with clear goals, audiences, messages, and outcomes

Storytelling: Communicates human impact with clarity, dignity, accuracy, and consent

Builds productive relationships with staff, clients, stakeholders and community members

Project management: Organizes complex assignments and consistently meets deadlines

Responds effectively to changing priorities, emerging issues, and new communication channels

To Apply:

Complete an online application here: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/knoxcounty. Resumes and cover letters not included with the application may be emailed to: humanresources@knoxcounty.oh.gov.

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