Public Engagement Officer

JOB SUMMARY

Ottawa Public Library (OPL) provides accessible, innovative library and information services throughout the city of Ottawa, that meet the unique needs of diverse communities, delivered through a range of vehicles and reflecting a citizen-centered approach. The Communications unit is responsible for communications programs, services, policies, procedures and initiatives, including capital projects; writing, editing and design of content for the public (including advertising, marketing and promotions); and communications initiatives directly related to OPL Board Legislative Agenda and issues management/strategic matters.

You are responsible for the effective implementation of programs and initiatives that engage Ottawa Public Library's clients and the community. You monitor and measure the 'voice of the community' in relation to Ottawa Public Library's activities and operations. You develop, implement, and coordinate the delivery of public participation initiatives; this includes the design and execution of plans for public consultation initiatives, including but not limited to surveys, focus groups, consultation meetings, etc. Through this work, you build greater client and partner trust and bolster the Ottawa Public Library brand and reputation.

Work is performed within the context of the policies and framework of the Library corporate culture as embodied in the Mission Statement, Core Values, Customer Experience Guidelines and the Canadian Federation of Library Association position statements on Intellectual Freedom and Diversity and Inclusion, with particular emphasis on providing customer service excellence.  

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Completion of a 4-year university degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Journalism 

Minimum 5 years of relevant public engagement experience. 

CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENCES

KNOWLEDGE

• Public participation / engagement strategies and techniques 
• Marketing and communications strategies and techniques 
• Design principles and techniques 
• Public relations and communications strategies and techniques 
• General knowledge of OPL policies and procedures related to health and safety 
• Knowledge of client service techniques and protocols 
• Significant experience and strong practical knowledge and aptitude working in social forums
• Significant experience formulating, implementing, monitoring and analyzing results of major engagement initiatives
• Significant experience helping design and execute plans for public consultations and other engagement initiatives 
• Knowledge of applicable health and safety legislation, including the rights and duties of workers

COMPETENCIES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Strong organizational and planning skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong leadership and ability to build and maintain productive internal and external relationships
• Ability to market and promote programs and resources effectively
• Ability to develop creative advertising materials
• Research and analytical skills, including the ability to write reports and documents
• Integrity, sound judgment, and ability to handle sensitive situations with tact, discretion, and confidentiality
• Proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Strong client service orientation
• Attention to detail
• Creative problem-solving skills and initiative
• Flexibility and ability to adjust priorities
• Self-motivated with a high energy level
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as a team leader/member
• Ability to perform multiple tasks concurrently

Core Behaviours
Core behaviours define the City's expectations of the behaviours employees should demonstrate in performing their work.  They are reflective of the City's culture and values and guide all our present and future activities.  Every employee is encouraged to learn, embody, and demonstrate these core behaviours.

Review the Core Behaviours.