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.
Under limited supervision, the position is responsible for the planning, creation, and execution of messaging campaigns, educational materials and content, and websites/platforms for benefits and wellness programming for employees and retirees of the School division and the City of Virginia Beach within the Consolidated Benefits Office. Position participates in special projects as directed by management.
ESSENTIAL TASKS INTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS
Develop and implement internal communications strategies in collaboration with Benefits Program Specialist (Communications) and Director of Benefits that create connections, communicate the value of offerings & services, and engage employees (active and retired) at all levels of the organization. Partner closely with internal teams and business partners to execute communications strategies that advance business objectives of the Consolidated Benefits Office; inspire, educate, and engage employees in benefits and wellness offerings and services. Advise on and create content across channels, including email, intranet, newsletters, video channels, websites & platforms, cloud applications & mobile platforms, digital screens, employee events, digital & real-time presentations, and more. Manage receipt of internal communication project requests; provide progress updates as appropriate. Review and present on outcomes-based metrics. Work with internal teams and business partners to develop solutions for current challenges and innovative ideas for the future. Develop and maintain web content and platforms. Abide by ADA standards when creating materials and making web updates.
SPECIAL PROJECTS & IMPLEMENTATIONS
Manage communications and marketing implementations and special projects as they relate to: Division-wide benefits and wellness events, including annual benefits open enrollment. Websites and portals communicating and/or promoting benefits and wellness plan and program information. Marketing and email/digital communications promoting benefits and wellness plan and program information. Participate in Request for Proposal (RFP) review/meetings and contract preparation as needed. Development and implementation of new and creative ways to engage employees.
BRAND DESIGN & MANAGEMENT
Build and maintain a strong and consistent brand throughout a wide range of communication channels. Perform related work as required. Education/Experience
REQUIRED
Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, SharePoint, and Teams. Proficiency in Adobe Acrobat, InDesign, Illustrator, Audition, and Premier, OR similar/applicable applications. Experience with HTML coding. Experience managing digital and print communications, social media sites, and graphic design. Experience managing YouTube channels OR similar/applicable application.
PREFERRED
Bachelor's Degree in a related field. Experience working in internal or people communications roles. Knowledge of benefit plans and wellness programming helpful. Must be experienced in creative writing, graphic design and web development; knowledge of Web communication technology; knowledge of HTML, CSS and/or related web scripting languages. Must have knowledge of social media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. Must have excellent communication and presentation skills, both orally and written; ability to communicate technical knowledge and train others in its use; ability to work with video for the Web to include streaming videos; excellent organizational skills with great attention to detail; knowledge and understanding of database and spreadsheet applications (Microsoft Access/Excel); experience using graphics software, Adobe Create Cloud Suite, Microsoft Office Suite including Teams, SharePoint, PowerPoint, or similar applications and social media sites. A comparable amount of training and experience may be substituted for the minimum qualifications. Physical Requirements Must have the use of sensory skills to effectively communicate and interact with employees and the public using the telephone and personal contact as normally defined by the ability to see, read, talk, hear, handle, or feel objects and controls. Physical capabilities to effectively use and operate various office equipment, such as, but not limited to, a personal computer, calculator, copier, scanner, and fax machine, are necessary. Some standing, walking, moving, climbing, carrying, bending, kneeling, crawling, reaching, handling, pushing, and pulling are required. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential tasks. Special Requirements Possession of a valid driver's license and vehicle for transportation. Regular and reliable attendance is an essential function of this position. All candidates (internal and external) must submit a letter of interest and resume.
HOW TO APPLY
External Applicants:
If you are interested in applying for this position, you must create an account. Please select "Login and Apply" from the bottom of this posting. After creating an account, please login, complete the online application, and apply for this job.
Eligible Internal Applicants:
Follow these instructions to complete a transfer application. After creating an account, please complete the application and apply for this job. Reports To Colleen Clark-Norman Full Time or Part Time? Full Time Job Posting Link https://vbschoolscom.finalsite.com/fs/resource-manager/view/5fd34eca-3739-43c8-8a47-7121b7cfda81
Salary Range:
From/To Hourly rate range: $29.17-$42.55 Compensation will be based on job-related creditable years of full-time, verified work experience. The entry-level rate will be awarded at the time of hire. Upon the return of employment verification forms from the candidate's current and previous employers, the rate will be adjusted if creditable full-time experience is confirmed. VBCPS offers a full range of benefits including health insurance, paid life insurance, paid sick/annual leave, tuition reimbursement, professional development and membership in the Virginia Retirement System.
Unified Experience Based Step Pay Scale:
U16 FTE 1.000
Start Date 2026-2027 School Yr Additional Job Information All applicants, both internal and external, must attach a current detailed resume to your electronic application. Virginia Beach City Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation/gender identity, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical condition, disability, marital status, age, genetic information or veteran status in its programs and activities. (
Reference:
School Board Policies 2-33,4-4,4-6) To seek resolution of grievances resulting from alleged discrimination or to report violations of these policies, please contact the Chief Human Resources Officer at (757) 263-1133,2512 George Mason Drive, Municipal Center, Building 6, Virginia Beach, VA, 23456. Alternative formats of this application which may include taped, Braille, or large print materials are available upon request for individuals with disabilities. Call or write the Department of Human Resources, Virginia Beach City Public Schools, 2512 George Mason Drive, P.O. Box 6038, Virginia Beach, VA 23456-0038.
Telephone:
(757) 263-1133 (voice); (757) 263-1240 (TDD) or email at: vbcpshr@vbschools.com.
