This position is a full-time, limited duration position funded by the natural area bond through June 30, 2018. Limited duration positions are eligible for benefits.

Do you have what it takes to get people excited about parks, trails and natural areas? Metro is looking for a senior public affairs specialist to lead the development of new marketing materials and strategies, and to serve as a day-to-day communications project manager. You will become the resident marketing expert for Metro’s parks and nature communications team, helping us connect new audiences with 17,000 acres of voter-protected land. If you love creating innovative ways to reach people, hate being bored and don’t mind getting muddy, this may be the job for you.

You should have extensive experience developing marketing plans, tailoring your message and approach for different audiences. Be ready to reach the region’s passionate nature lovers, while also connecting with diverse and low-income communities who may be engaging with regional parks and natural areas for the first time. You should have experience communicating across cultures and creating materials that tap into our region’s diverse communities. We’re looking for somebody who’s not only a marketing whiz, but also a strong storyteller and compelling writer – you’ll develop journalism-style stories for Metro’s website and magazine, as well as social media posts, speeches and presentations. You don’t have to be an expert in parks and nature, but you should enjoy the outdoors and feel passionate about the place we live.

The next few years will be critical for Metro’s nature programs, as voters’ investments transform protected land. Weeds will disappear, trails and playgrounds will open, grants will empower community projects across the region. You’ll get to go behind the scenes, curating stories from the people on the ground: neighbors and natural resource scientists, volunteers and visitors, park rangers and park planners. You will collaborate with a fun and talented nature communications team, including public engagement, content and event specialists. Expect to take ownership of major projects while helping to build a fun, effective and talented team. You’ll also pitch in on Metro-wide projects, helping develop branding materials for the regional government as a whole.

Application requirements
Electronic application, a resume, cover letter, a list of three work-related references, and three work samples as described below.

Work samples
Please provide a portfolio of three work samples – one to address each of the focal points below. Include a cover page that briefly introduces each of the three samples, explaining what the project was, what the outcomes were and how it fits the category below. You are welcome to provide web links to the work samples or compile printed materials into a single PDF, depending on the type and format of work.

At Metro, we strive to hire a workforce representative of the communities we serve, understanding that a diverse workforce strengthens our organization. We value diversity and support a positive and welcoming environment where all of our employees can thrive.

Online applications: Metro accepts job applications online. If you need assistance or accommodation with your application, or access to a computer, call 503-797-1570.

Accommodation: Reasonable accommodation is available to anyone whose specific disability prevents them from completing this application or participating in this process. To obtain confidential assistance please contact Human Resources (503) 797-1570.
Public Employees Retirement System (PERS): New employees will pay the employee portion of the PERS contribution.

Representation/classification: This position is represented by AFSCME Local 3580 and falls under the Senior Public Affairs Specialist classification.

Veterans’ Preference: Under Oregon Law, qualified veterans may be eligible for veterans’ preference when applying for Metro positions. If you are a veteran and would like to be considered for a veterans’ preference for this job, please provide qualifying documents as instructed during the application process.

Criminal background check: In order to protect the well being of its employees, the public and agency assets, Metro will conduct criminal background checks on all internal and external final applicants selected for Metro positions, including volunteers and interns. Employment at Metro is contingent on the successful completion of a criminal background check. By signing this application for employment, you are consenting to a background check, which includes a criminal history and a driving records check. A background check will only be conducted if you are selected as a finalist for a position. If selected as a finalist, you will be contacted by Human Resources and provided a copy of the Fair Credit Reporting Act prior to initiation of a background check.

Equal employment opportunity: All qualified persons will be considered for employment
without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, familial status, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability for which a reasonable accommodation can be made or any other status protected by law. Assistance will be gladly provided upon request for any applicant with sensory or non-sensory disabilities.

An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer