A Communications or Public Relations Specialist coordinates internal and external communications for a company or organization. Provides information to employees on company activities, such as the launch of a new product or a community service initiative. Writes and edits public communications; develops media contacts and prepares material for press and media distribution; monitors media coverage. May assist with events planning.
Communications & Engagement Specialist State of Ohio - Ohio Public Works Commission - 3.7 Columbus, OH Job Details Full-time 16 hours ago Benefits Paid holidays Health insurance Dental insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Loan forgiveness Life insurance Qualifications Cross-platform strategy Technical editing Basic graphic design principles Social media community building Multi-platform content development Driver's License Bachelor's degree Publication graphic design Image content creation Video communication Visual communication design Technical writing Media planning Professional art or design Strategic communications Social media content videography Cross-functional collaboration Multimedia design Media audio production Layout design Content publishing Full Job Description What You'll Do as the
OPWC Communications & Engagement Specialist:
Advance Our Public Voice:
Build and execute a multi-platform strategy across social media, e-newsletters, annual reports, and our website to promote Ohio's infrastructure and Clean Ohio programs .
Create Engaging Multimedia:
Turn technical funding data into compelling visual stories using video, photography, graphic design, and feature articles highlighting local community projects .
Lead Public & Media Outreach:
Draft press releases, produce training materials (e.g., YouTube, LinkedIn), and assist leadership with media and public inquiries . Connect with
Stakeholders:
Attend district workshops, site visits, and statewide events to represent OPWC and collaborate with statewide Public Information Officer networks .
Support Core Operations:
Maintain public GIS mapping data, pull programmatic reports, and provide backup support for internal financial administration . Why Work for the State of Ohio At the State of Ohio, we take care of the team that cares for Ohioans. We provide a variety of quality, competitive benefits to eligible full-time and part-time employees•. For a list of all the State of Ohio Benefits, visit our Total Rewards website!
Our benefits package includes:
Medical Coverage Free Dental, Vision and Basic Life Insurance premiums after completion of eligibility period Paid time off, including vacation, personal, sick leave and 11 paid holidays per year Childbirth, Adoption, and Foster Care leave Education and Development Opportunities (Employee Development Funds, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and more) Public Retirement Systems (such as OPERS, STRS, SERS, and HPRS) & Optional Deferred Compensation (Ohio Deferred Compensation) Benefits eligibility is dependent on a number of factors. The Agency Contact listed above will be able to provide specific benefits information for this position.
Qualifications Required:
Outstanding Writing & Editing:
Proven ability to convey highly technical public infrastructure or environmental policy information clearly, accurately, and compellingly.
Multi-Platform Digital Production:
Demonstrated experience managing social media, email marketing platforms, website content management systems (CMS), and digital communication tools.
Creative Technical Skills:
Proficient in graphic design, digital layout, photography, and video/audio production.
Strategic Editorial Judgment:
Ability to proactively select the right message, timing, visual channel, and platform for maximum public engagement and impact.
Collaboration & Adaptability:
Self-directed and highly organized, with the diplomatic, interpersonal skills needed to work across disciplines with diverse local government stakeholders. OPWC will only consider applications with updated resume attached.
Preferred:
Familiarity with local or state government processes, public sector funding mechanisms, regional planning, or economic development. Minimum Class Qualifications for
Employment:
Completion of an undergraduate core program in journalism, communications, public relations, public administration, or a closely related field. Minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience in professional communications, multi-media content development, public relations, or public sector outreach (or an equivalent combination of education and experience). Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
Work Environment & Travel:
Travel Requirements:
Occasional travel throughout Ohio's districts is required to attend district public works integrating committee meetings, local subdivision workshops, statewide conferences, and outdoor project site visits. ADA Statement Ohio is a Disability Inclusion State and strives to be a model employer of individuals with disabilities. The State of Ohio is committed to providing access and inclusion and reasonable accommodation in its services, activities, programs and employment opportunities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable laws. Drug-Free Workplace The State of Ohio is a drug-free workplace which prohibits the use of marijuana (recreational marijuana/non-medical cannabis). Please note, this position may be subject to additional restrictions pursuant to the State of Ohio Drug-Free Workplace Policy (HR-39), and as outlined in the posting.
