Community Engagement and Events Coordinator - City of Maize

Job Summary

The Community Engagement and Events Coordinator is responsible for developing and implementing communication, marketing, and community engagement initiatives that promote the City of Maize, its services, programs, events, and strategic priorities. This position serves as a key liaison between the City, residents, businesses, community organizations, and regional partners by coordinating public information efforts, community events, volunteer programs, sponsorship opportunities, and citizen engagement initiatives.

The Coordinator works collaboratively with City leadership and departmental staff to enhance transparency, strengthen community relationships, support public outreach efforts, pursue grant and partnership opportunities, and foster civic engagement through innovative communication and engagement strategies.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Communications and Public Engagement

• Develop and implement communication, marketing, and public engagement strategies that promote City initiatives, programs, services, and events.
• Coordinate and distribute public information through media releases, social media platforms, newsletters, the City website, and other communication channels.
• Manage and maintain the City's social media presence, digital content, and community messaging efforts.
• Create written, graphic, and video content to effectively communicate City initiatives and community stories.

Pay: $21.06 - $29.76 per hour

Community Events and Partnerships

• Plan, coordinate, and execute City-sponsored events, including the Maize Fall Festival, seasonal markets, summer concerts, and other special events.
• Coordinate with community partners, including the Maize Recreation Commission and Maize Community Foundation, to support collaboration on events and initiatives.
• Recruit, coordinate, and recognize volunteers supporting City boards, committees, events, and initiatives.
• Develop sponsorship opportunities and assist in securing financial and in-kind support for community programs and events.
• Represent the City at community meetings, networking events, conferences, trade shows, and regional organizations.

Community Relations and Customer Service

• Serve as a liaison between the City and residents, businesses, community organizations, and regional partners.
• Respond to citizen inquiries and concerns and assist residents in navigating City services and programs.

Organizational Support

• Research, prepare, and assist with the administration of federal, state, local, and private grant opportunities.
• Assist with special projects and strategic initiatives assigned by City Management.
• Support City branding efforts and maintain consistency in the City's visual identity and messaging.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and updates for City Management and the Governing Body as requested.
• Coordinate across City departments to support communication efforts, public outreach initiatives, and implementation of projects, policies, and programs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including public information dissemination, media relations, public speaking, and professional content development.
• Knowledge of communication, marketing, public relations, and community engagement principles and best practices.
• Experience managing social media platforms, website content management systems, email marketing platforms, and digital communication tools.
• Ability to create compelling visual and written content for diverse audiences.
• Experience planning, coordinating, and evaluating community events and public programs.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills with the ability to effectively engage residents, businesses, community organizations, elected officials, and regional partners.
• Ability to research, prepare, and assist with grant applications and administration.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other software used for communication, event management, reporting, and data collection.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with City staff and community partners.
• Ability to maintain a flexible work schedule, including evenings and weekends, to support community events and public meetings.

Education and Experience

Required

• Associate degree in communications, marketing, journalism, public relations, digital media, public administration, or a related field; or
• An equivalent combination of education and relevant professional experience.
• Valid Kansas Driver's License.

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, public relations, journalism, public administration, or a related field.
• Three to five years of progressively responsible experience in communications, marketing, public engagement, public relations, event management, or a related field.
• Experience working in local government, nonprofit organizations, community development, or public service organizations.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to occasionally lift and carry materials weighing up to 30 pounds.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions during community events.