Public affairs government

Job Title: Public Affairs

Reports To: Township Administrator

Type: Contracted Position

Hours: 25–30 hours per week

Compensation: $55,000–$60,000 annually (based on experience)

Location: Primarily remote with some on-site meetings and occasional evening/weekend events

Position Overview

Niles Township is seeking a visionary and strategic Public Affairs professional to foster public trust, amplify community voices, and advocate for policies that uplift our most vulnerable neighbors.

This position plays a central role in crafting impactful communications, nurturing community partnerships, and ensuring Niles Township remains a beacon of support and equity for all residents. The ideal candidate is a dynamic communicator and a mission-driven advocate, skilled at building bridges between government and the diverse communities we serve.

This is a contracted position with a strong focus on collaboration, storytelling, and public service. Additional duties may be assigned by the Township Supervisor as needed.

Key Responsibilities:

Public Relations & Communications

• Build upon existing communications strategy a cohesive communications strategy to elevate the township’s public profile.
• Manage the township’s website, social media channels, and email marketing to ensure timely and engaging content.
• Draft press releases, speeches, op-eds, and messaging around key township initiatives.
• Act as the primary media contact, maintaining strong relationships with local and regional outlets.
• Design or coordinate the production of promotional materials, including flyers, newsletters, and annual reports.

Advocacy & Policy Initiatives

• Monitor local and state policy developments that impact township services and residents.
• Represent the township in coalitions, advocacy meetings, and public forums.
• Collaborate with government agencies, nonprofits, and stakeholders to advance shared goals.
• Recommend advocacy strategies and draft position statements aligned with township priorities.

Community Engagement & Partnerships

• Build and sustain relationships with residents, community leaders, and local organizations.
• Plan and facilitate town halls, forums, and events that inform and engage the public.
• Ensure community feedback is collected and integrated into township programs and services.
• Serve as a liaison to amplify resident voices within township decision-making.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Partner with the Township Supervisor and department heads to align messaging and policy efforts.
• Coordinate with external vendors for marketing, design, and event-related services.
• Manage the public affairs budget responsibly and track expenditures as needed.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications, public administration, political science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in public affairs, advocacy, communications, or related roles.
• Previous experience in government, nonprofit, or community-based organizations strongly preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a strong grasp of narrative development.
• Knowledge of local and state legislative processes and advocacy techniques.
• Proficient in Canva.
• Experience managing social media, websites, and email platforms.
• Highly organized, with strong project management skills and the ability to juggle multiple deadlines.
• Confident working both independently and in collaboration with teams.

Personal Attributes

• Passionate about equity, inclusion, and social justice.
• Strategic thinker who brings proactive, solutions-oriented energy to their work.
• Approachable and community-minded, with strong cultural competence.
• Able to remain professional and composed in dynamic or high-pressure settings.

Physical Requirements

• Frequent use of hands and fingers for typing, designing, or using office equipment.
• Ability to lift or carry up to 25 pounds on occasion.
• Must have access to a reliable motor vehicle for travel to meetings or events.

Work Environment

• This is a contracted, part-time position with flexible hours.
• Work is primarily remote, with occasional on-site meetings and community events.
• Evening and weekend availability may be required for public meetings, outreach, or advocacy efforts.
• The Public Affairs contractor will coordinate closely with the Township Supervisor and Administrator.

To Apply

Please submit the following to [email protected]

• A resume
• A brief cover letter explaining your interest in the role and relevant experience

Niles Township is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in our workforce. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Job Type: Contract

Pay: $55,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Skokie, IL 60077