Council Communications Strategist - District 9 Council Office

Job Description:

Council Communications Strategist - District 9 Council Office

Description

Minimum Qualifications
Education and/or Equivalent Experience:

• Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in a field related to the job, plus two (2) years of related experience.
• Experience can substitute for the education up to the maximum of (4) years.

Licenses or Certifications:

• None.

Notes to Applicants
The District 9 Council Office seeks a talented, enthusiastic Council Communications Strategist to join a small, hard-working team to support messaging and community outreach that is effective, progressive, and equitable for all Austinites. The ideal candidate has a passion and ability to craft progressive messaging quickly, be adept at visual asset creation, tell the stories of the community compellingly, and engage with the district both online and offline.

This position will:

• Create and deliver high-quality visual and multimedia assets for social media and outreach, including graphic design, photography, videography, and video editing.
• Develop innovative strategies for social media growth, integrating the latest trends across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Reddit.
• Draft engaging, accessible content for digital communications, including the Council Member’s weekly Mailchimp newsletter.
• Write talking points, speeches, op-eds, and other copy that simplifies complex political issues for broad audiences.
• Manage press strategy, including cultivating press relationships, drafting advisories and releases, and developing proactive earned media strategies.
• Lead crisis communications efforts and ensure rapid, strategic responses to breaking news.
• Collaborate with the Council Member and policy team on key projects to amplify external messaging around accomplishments and office initiatives.
• Support event logistics and participate in community meetings, town halls, and outreach events.
  
  

Strong candidates will possess the following:

• Demonstrated ability to create original, on-brand digital content using tools like Canva, Figma, or Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong written and oral communication skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Strong commitment to collaboration, teamwork, and public engagement.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment and under tight deadlines.
• Passion for progressive politics, communications, journalism, public relations, government, and community organizing.
• Knowledge of local, state, and national political contexts, especially related to Austin, Texas.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with members of the press and develop proactive media strategies.
  Ability to design compelling graphics.
• Knowledge of local, state, and national political context.

The following items are required to complete the application process:

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Work samples, to include one graphic design sample and three writing samples (a combination of press release, op-ed, and speech is preferred)

*Please also include three references on your application.

Note - Please link here for additional information.
Pay Range
$71,240.00 - $85,000.00
Hours
Work hours will vary depending on operational needs. Some evenings and weekends will be required.
Job Close Date 05/29/2025 Type of Posting External Department Mayor and Council Regular/Temporary Regular Grant Funded or Pooled Position Not Applicable Category Professional Location 301 W. 2nd Street, Austin, TX Preferred Qualifications

• Experience creating original, on-brand digital content using tools like Canva, Figma, or Adobe Creative Suite
• Experience drafting and editing effective social media content and managing creative, strategic social media programs
  
  

Duties, Functions and Responsibilities
Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.


Researches, organizes analyzes and interprets information to be used in policy making and/or constituent communications. Monitors issues and projects. Prepares, edits and summarizes reports, memos and correspondence; communicating in a professional manner. Acts as liaison between City Executives and City departments. Reviews City Council agenda items. Attends Council meetings, work sessions, community events, etc. Facilitates the flow of information among various groups, (i.e. community, political etc.). Represents City Council member at meetings. Assigns work and monitors task completion. Coordinates activities or projects with others.

Responsibilities- Supervision and/or Leadership Exercised:

• May lead and train others.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.

• Knowledge of the functions and organization of municipal government, to include the relationships between departments, divisions, and agencies.
• Knowledge of Federal, State and Local laws.
• Knowledge of city practice, policy and procedures.
• Skill in oral and written communication.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
• Skill in using computers and related software applications.
• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
• Skill in planning and organizing.
• Ability to prepare clear and concise written reports, able to communicate in a professional manner with the public.
• Ability to interpret policies, and guidelines as they relate to municipal government.
• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships with city employees and the public.
• Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
• Ability to exercise discretion in confidential matters.
• Ability to lead and train others.

Criminal Background Investigation This position does not require a Criminal Background Investigation EEO/ADA
City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call (512) 974-3210 or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual’s AIDS , AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.
Information For City Employees: If you are an employee within the department, are in good standing and meet both the minimum and preferred qualifications, then you will receive an initial interview.

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
* This position requires graduation with a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in a field related to the job plus two (2) years of experience. Experience may substitute for education for up to four (4) years. Do you meet these minimum requirements?

• Yes
• No

* Describe your experience in implementing successful social media and communication campaigns.
(Open Ended Question)
Please attach writing sample(s) as an "Other Document". The work should reflect your experience with internal/external communications (e.g. news releases, communication plans, articles, promotions, etc.)
(Open Ended Question)


Optional & Required Documents

Required Documents Cover Letter Resume Other Document Optional Documents