Communications Officer/Writer

About the job

RNAO is currently seeking a full-time Communications Officer/Writer level 8 position within the Canadian Office and Professional Employee Union (Local 343). Annual starting salary of $78,955.02. This role will be for a maternity leave.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Communications Officer/Writer supports the work of the Communications department by providing communications services and activities for the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO).

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Acts as primary writer for RNJ, the association’s online magazine. This includes interviewing, researching and writing feature articles on a wide range of topics that promote and advance RNAO’s mission and values.
• Generates story ideas for RNJ by canvassing departments and regions, chapters and interest groups for suggestions.
• Proofreads and fact-checks RNJ copy at key stages of production.
• Writes media releases, letters to the editors, web copy, scripts, speeches, etc.
• Works with regions, chapters and interest groups to devise communications campaigns to promote awareness of key issues, gives members a voice in the media, and provides them with communications materials.
• Acts as key liaison for communications executive network officers, providing communications support and guidance, and works to improve member engagement.
• Manages all aspects of the association’s annual media awards competition.
• Facilitates requests from the media, and, where applicable, finds appropriate spokesperson, to match reporters’ requests.
• Helps co-ordinate media conferences and other events by targeting key media for regional or theme-based campaigns.
• Keeps abreast of social media trends and applications with ability to write content appropriate for social media platforms.
• Takes photographs for use in association communications material.
• Available as a resource for staff and members in editing and proofreading materials.
• Maintains a rapport with media contacts, both regionally and issue-based that are relevant to the association.
• Other communications duties, as necessary.
• Maintains confidentiality of information.
• Maintains co-operative relationships with staff, members,
• media, suppliers, external organizations and general public.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE

• University degree preferred or community college diploma in communications, journalism, or public relations.
• Minimum experience of four years experience in related field.
• Superior writing, editing skills, including knowledge of grammar, punctuation and CP style.
• Proficiency with photo and video editing software an asset.
• Excellent time-management skills, including the ability to work within timelines and re-prioritize work as necessary.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to interact with staff, members of the association and external stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Dexterity required to operate a computer, telephone and other office equipment.

EFFORT:

• Work flow requires meeting multiple deadlines, attention to detail, re-prioritizing work to meet deadlines and occasionally working overtime during periods that require an increase in speed and accuracy to perform the duties of the job.
• Ability to work independently and under pressure of deadlines with high degree of accuracy.
• Sight, touch and hearing are used to read, proofread, write and analyze information to answer inquiries.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Works in a climate-controlled office with some exposure to distractions, interruptions and stress from multiple demands.
• Typical conditions are such that no risk or injury is present.

FULLY VACCINATED IS A MANDATORY REQUIREMENT.

RNAO is working hybrid with two mandatory days at the home office. We thank all candidates for their applications, and qualified applicants will be contacted.

RNAO is committed to providing an inclusive, equitable and accessible environment, where all employees feel valued, respected and supported. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates who can help us build a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities in which we live. Accommodations are available to all candidates identifying a need during all or any parts of the selection process.