Communications Assistant

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing! *We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business.* **Department:** Office of Communications **Grade:** 150 **Salary:** $21.15/hour **GENERAL PURPOSE** The Jackson County Communications Department is seeking a creative, organized, and detail-oriented Communications Assistant to support daily department operations, internal communications efforts, and public engagement initiatives. This position assists with administrative coordination, budget tracking, vendor communication, event support, website updates, and promotional activities while helping maintain the professional image and communication standards of Jackson County. The ideal candidate is highly organized, possesses strong communication skills, works well in a fast-paced government environment, and can manage confidential information with professionalism and discretion. **ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS** - Process purchase orders, invoices, and departmental financial entries through Workday - Maintain records of invoices, departmental expenditures, and budget line items - Assist with tracking departmental budgets and preparing Excel spreadsheets and reports - Coordinate office supplies, department inventory, and organization of communications equipment and checkout procedures - Create, organize, and maintain department filing systems and records - Build and maintain positive working relationships with county departments, outside vendors, and partner agencies - Serve as a liaison with outside vendors, partner agencies, and departments by responding to questions and gathering requested information - Proofread promotional materials, publications, presentations, social media content, and internal communications for accuracy and consistency - Assist with planning and coordination of internal and external events, press conferences, employee initiatives, and community outreach activities - Support updates and maintenance of county webpages and digital communication platforms - Assist with employee morale and engagement initiatives by developing creative promotional ideas and activities - Provide administrative and operational support to the Communications Manager and Director of Communications - Maintain organized records, files, and department resources - Deliver excellent customer service to county departments, vendors, media representatives, and the public - Handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion and professionalism - Assist with additional communications and administrative projects as assigned **MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS** - Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism or related field. - OR an Associate’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism or related field and at least two years of experience in communications, public relations government, marketing, office administration, or customer service. - Previous experience in communications, public relations, government, marketing, office administration, or customer service preferred - Experience with event coordination, administrative support, or public-facing communications is beneficial - Must possess/maintain valid driver’s license - Must submit to/pass pre-employment background and drug screen. **Preferred Qualities** The ideal candidate is: - Creative and proactive - Highly dependable and organized - Detail-oriented - Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment - Professional in appearance and communication - Passionate about public service and community engagement **KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES** - Strong written and verbal communication skills - Excellent proofreading, organizational, and multitasking abilities - Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously - Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, Word, and Outlook - Ability to prepare reports, spreadsheets, and budget tracking documents - Strong interpersonal and relati…