Community Engagement Coordinator - Police

The Community Engagement Coordinator is a non-sworn position within the administrative division that is responsible for developing, implementing, and managing the police department's community outreach programs, public relations initiatives, and digital media presence. This role acts as a primary bridge between the department and the community, focusing on building trust, transparency, and collaborative partnerships.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in multi-media journalism, bringing expertise in visual storytelling, broadcast-quality video production, professional photography, and clear, objective written communication to keep the public informed.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Mass Communications, Public Relations, Digital Media, or a closely related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 2 years of experience as a multi-media journalist (MMJ), news reporter, digital content producer, professional public relations role, or any combination of experience and training that demonstrate knowledge of the position.
• Technical Skills: A digital portfolio or reel demonstrating high-quality video production, photography, and written work is desirable. Highly desirable skills include knowledge of standard police department operations and terminology, and experience with graphic design tools.
• Legal Requirements: Must possess a valid driver’s license and pass an extensive background check.  

ILLUSTRATIVE DUTIES:

• Community Programming: Plan, coordinate, and attend community events such as Citizens Police Academies, neighborhood meetings, and youth outreach programs.
• Social Media Management: Manage and grow the department’s official social media platforms. Monitor community engagement and respond to inquiries in a timely and professional manner.
• Content Creation & Storytelling: Write, shoot, and edit compelling video packages, photo essays, and articles highlighting department initiatives, community interactions, and crime prevention tips
• Media & Public Relations: Draft press releases, coordinate media availability, and assist Department Command Staff during critical incidents, press conferences, or community events.
• Crisis Communication: Assist in disseminating accurate, real-time information to the public during emergencies or major public safety incidents using digital and broadcast channels.
• Internal Communication: Produce internal newsletters, videos, or profiles to boost morale and highlight the work of sworn and civilian staff.
• Anticipates, identifies, and manages potential issues  
• Strong decision-making, problem solving, time management, multitasking, negotiation, critical thinking, attention to detail, follow-up, organizational and analytical skills.
• Strong organizational skills and public speaking skills. 
• Must be willing to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings, weekends and holidays for community events or developing situations. 
• Performs all other duties as assigned 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Ability to accurately operate office equipment, camera equipment, copy machine, and cellular phone. Maintain a minimum lifting capacity of 30 lbs. and sustain the ability for repeated standing, sitting, bending, and stooping. Must be able to walk and climb stairs when necessary.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Cultural competency through strong interpersonal skills.  
• The ability to communicate effectively and empathetically with diverse community populations.
• Multi-media production and video editing proficiency with professional cameras, audio equipment and lighting
• Journalistic writing with exceptional writing skills and the ability to turn complex police reports or data into accessible, engaging, and accurate stories for the public, often under tight deadlines.
• Comfortable speaking on camera or conducting recorded interviews with department staff and community members.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, Microsoft Teams, and Adobe Pro.  
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.