Communications Associate

**Priority given to Saugeen Ojibway Nation Members

The Communications Associate is responsible for assisting the Communications Manager with the  development, implementation and maintenance of the Environment Office (EO) Communications Strategic Plan in support of SON, the Chiefs, Joint Councils and community members. 
This position will engage diverse audiences on a broad range of topics through the use of photography, videos, the Environment Office website, social media platforms, written articles, interviews and special projects. The Communications Associate will also assist in the interaction with media, service providers, proponents, government officials and delegates to provide relevant information and encourage participation on issues that impact the SON community at large.

Supervisor: Communications Manager

Accountable to: Executive Administrative Officer / Joint Chiefs and Councils of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation

Term of Employment: Full-time - Permanent

Hours of Work: 37.5 hours per week (Monday-Friday | Some weekends and evenings may be required).

Responsibilities:

• Support the development, implementation and maintenance of the Environment Office (EO) Communications Strategic Plan
• Update and maintain the EO website in order provide current information and reflect community issues and concerns
• Research, document and report on issues that could impact the SON community
• Identify new communication opportunities 
• Develop podcasts to engage listeners and further the sharing of relevant information and ideas
• Write and edit communication materials for a diverse audience on a broad range of topics
• Capture and report on community events through interviews, the use of photography and videography
• Develop templates for posters, pamphlets, promotional and communication materials reflecting traditional SON values and the use of pre-authorized branding i.e., logos
• Support the development and design of reports, e-mails and special project materials 
• Create press releases, press kits, newsletters and other publicity related materials
• Interact professionally with media, the general public, service providers, proponents, government officials and dignitaries
• Provide technical and creative assistance to other EO portfolios as needed
• Build positive relationships within the community and outside media groups
• Adhere to all SON policies & procedures, including Health & Safety guidelines
• Respect the confidentiality of SON, the community and employee information
• Deal professionally & courteously with all internal & external contacts
• Seek guidance / direction as necessary in the performance of duties
• Act as an ambassador for SON at all times
• Willingness to take all reasonable and necessary precautions to ensure personal health & safety and that of fellow workers 
• General office duties
• Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

• Diploma / Degree in Communications, Marketing or Journalism preferred
• Minimum of 1 plus years experience in a communications role including a comparable skill set will be considered
• Willingness to provide the results of a Criminal Background Check
• In-depth knowledge and understanding of SON Territory, rights, interests and culture.
• Valid Ontario G driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle for work
• Experience with web and graphic design software such as Adobe Illustrator or Photoshop
• Comprehensive computer skills including MS Office 
• Able to efficiently produce diverse materials for a variety of audiences on a broad range of topics
• Strong research and documentation abilities
• Exceptional verbal, written and presentation skills
• Project management experience
• Team player with a positive attitude and a drive to contribute to overall team success
• Self-motivated and goal-oriented
• Professional demeanour with polished interview skills and political acumen
• Knowledge of financial principles
• Experience with office procedures and practices
• Keen attention to detail
• Resourceful and flexible 
• Strong planning and time management skills
• Able to work efficiently with competing priorities and tight deadlines
• This position requires someone who is able to walk, sit or stand for long periods of time
• Able to bend, kneel and lift up to 20lbs
• Able to drive a car
• Must be able to use the computer, phone, and other office equipment such as scanners and copiers

Core Competencies:

• Analytical and critical thinking
• Communication skills
• Continuous Learning
• Detail oriented
• Initiative
• Leadership and training
• Networking and relationship building
• Organizational and environmental awareness
• Partnering
• Planning and organizing
• Service orientation