Internal/External Job Posting
Temporary Full Time Bargaining Unit Position
Digital Communications Officer

Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) has an international reputation for excellence in managing the natural resources of the largest inland river system in southern Ontario. Encompassing approximately 6,800 square kilometres, the Grand River watershed has a population of almost one million people in 39 municipalities and two First Nations. Designated as a Canadian Heritage River, the Grand River and its major tributaries boast many outstanding human heritage features and excellent recreational opportunities. The GRCA is committed to environmental protection by delivering services that ensure the well-being of the environment and its inhabitants.

General Accountabilities
Reporting to the Supervisor of Strategic Communications, the Digital Communications Officer is an entry-level position responsible for executing creative design solutions and digital media content for corporate communications and marketing channels.

Specific Accountabilities

1. Undertakes requests for creative content for web and social media graphics, signs, promotional materials, and other digital media formats as needed.
2. Presents design concepts and work to the Supervisor for review and final approval as appropriate.
3. Sees digital media design projects through from concept and production to delivery.
4. Develops and maintains a digital media library for communications and marketing use.
5. In consultation with the Supervisor, other team members and internal staff clients, creates written and/or visual content for the GRCA’s digital communications channels.
6. Provides multimedia support (videography, photography) to help maintain and enhance content on the GRCA’s digital communications channels, while ensuring alignment with the GRCA’s policies, corporate branding standards and strategic priorities, and compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.
7. Maintains print production process and relationships with external vendors, review print proofs and participates in quality assurance of all externally printed materials.
8. Other duties as assigned by the Supervisor of Strategic Communications or designate.

Technical Accountabilities

1. Post-secondary degree or diploma in Graphic Design or Digital Media or other related discipline.
2. 1 – 3 years of related work experience.
3. Demonstrated story-telling ability using a broad range of tools and tactics.
4. Excellent writing skills with a solid knowledge of both English grammar and the specialized requirements associated with writing for different media and different audiences.
5. Strong graphic design, photography and videography skills.
6. Demonstrated knowledge of social media platforms and required design specs for each platform.
7. Strong skills in digital media creation using appropriate media editing software to deliver engaging visual and interactive content.
8. Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite.
9. Understanding of the basic principles of communications and marketing. Ability to apply communication tactics to various audiences and platforms, in alignment with the GRCA’s strategic priorities.
10. Strong commitment to customer service, attention to detail, and is results-oriented.
11. Ability to work in a team environment, work productively and independently with frequent interruptions, while meeting tight deadlines.
12. Valid driver’s license and ability to travel throughout the watershed.
13. Ability to work occasional evening and weekend hours.

Competencies and Abilities

Professional Judgement

Demonstrated ability in the area of critical thinking, analysis and assessment of implications, making connections of underlying issues and the ownership of the outcome. Sound judgment resulting in fair, efficient and effective decision making, bringing clarity and resolution to complex and ambiguous situations. Ability to carry out skillful negotiations and interest based conflict resolution. Appropriately balances the interests of both internal and external stakeholders, when dealing with complex files.

Integrity/Ethics
The willingness to hold oneself and others accountable for acting in ways that are consistent with stated values, principles and professional standards. Maintaining impartiality, objectivity, confidentiality and fairness when dealing with employees, stakeholders and special interest groups.

Goal/Action Oriented
Does not shy away from challenges and seldom gives up, especially in the face of resistance, setbacks or change. Seizes opportunities; takes initiative and is self-motivated. Organizes work, plans activities and sets priorities in a manner that meets competing needs and timely resolution of matters. Maintains high level of productivity and self-direction. Demonstrated experience in project management with the ability to work under pressure and handle multiple tasks simultaneously with changing priorities. Achieving high standards of performance from others is important.

Team Work
Interacts with people respectfully and effectively. Able and willing to share and receive information. The ability to gather facts and pertinent information to gain an understanding before drawing conclusions, taking action or resolving conflict. It involves active listening and comprehension of verbal and non-verbal signals to enhance understanding. Demonstrated ability to build partnerships with stakeholders and staff. Exceptional internal communications skills are needed for staff relations, working inter-departmentally with respect to communications and marketing needs and to provide support to other programs within the GRCA.

Customer Focus
Dedicated to meeting the expectations and requirements of internal and external customers. Exceptional communication and negotiation skills to create, maintain and enhance relations with municipal partners, stakeholders, etc.

The GRCA strives to provide a collaborative and respectful work environment. We value the health and well-being of our employees and prioritizes Health and Safety in our workplace. We offer a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision care, life and disability insurance; Participation in the OMERS defined benefit pension plan, with generous employer-matching and a pass for free entry into GRCA conservation areas. We currently provide an option to work a flexible schedule and/or hybrid to balance the demands of both work and home.

Deadline for Applications: 4:00pm, June 2, 2023

Term of Employment: One Year

Start Date: June 2023

The pay range for this position is Job Level 5 $29.56 to $34.76 per hour/35 hours per week

To Apply: Please send a resume and covering letter to careers@grandriver.ca in MS Word or PDF format and quote “Digital Communications Officer” in the subject line.

We thank you for your interest, however only candidates under consideration will be contacted. GRCA is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to inclusive, barrier-free recruitment and selection processes and work environments. If you require any accessibility accommodations at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact us. Any information received relating to accommodation will be addressed confidentially.

Pursuant to section 29(2) of the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Individual Privacy Act R.S.O. 1990, C. M.56 the personal information contained on this form is collected under the legal authority of the Conservation Authorities Act, R.S.O. 1990, chapter C.27 and is used for recruitment purposes. Questions about the collection of personal information should be directed to the Manager of Human Resources, Grand River Conservation Authority, PO Box 729, 400 Clyde Road, Cambridge, Ontario N1R 5W6; 519-621-2761.