Title - Communication Specialist
Location - Averill Park CSD and Rensselaer CSD
Intro
Here at Questar III BOCES, we believe in changing lives, realizing dreams and doing together what can’t be done alone. Our vision is that of creating a student-centered culture and putting students first. Our core values include a commitment to excellence by honing our craftsmanship to deliver high-quality work, a commitment to leadership & service by moving the organization, departments and school districts forward by exceeding client expectations, and a commitment to innovation by creating programs and services to address client needs AND by continuously improving our programs and operations. We believe that organizational excellence is best achieved when leadership is reflective of our diverse society.
About the Job
Questar III BOCES is seeking a full-time Communications Specialist (Civil Service title: Public Information Specialist) to provide onsite support to school districts in Rensselaer, Columbia, and/or Greene Counties. This position is responsible for internal and external communications with an emphasis on writing press releases, social media posts, web content creation (photography and video), writing newsletters, recording and editing a podcast, and more.
The Communications Specialist supports the school district’s communication efforts by developing clear, accurate, and timely information for students, families, staff, community members, and media outlets. This position helps strengthen public trust and engagement through strategic communications, storytelling, digital content management, media relations, and support for district initiatives and emergency communications.
The Communications Specialist works collaboratively with district leadership, school administrators, and staff to ensure consistent messaging aligned with the district’s mission, goals, and values.
This position is based in two school districts in the Rensselaer, Columbia and Greene County region. The position is not eligible for a work-from-home schedule.
Responsibilities
-
Write, edit, and distribute district communications, including news releases, newsletters, website content, talking points, speeches, letters, and social media posts.
-
Develop multimedia content including photography, graphics, video, and digital storytelling materials.
-
Ensure communications are accurate, timely, accessible, and aligned with district branding standards.
-
Maintain and update district websites and digital communication platforms.
-
Manage district social media accounts and monitor engagement.
-
Respond to media inquiries and assist with media coordination.
-
Assist with public information efforts during emergencies or crisis situations.
-
Assist administrators with presentations, publications, and communication materials.
-
Maintain communication calendars and project timelines.
-
Support district branding and style guidelines.
-
Other communications-related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
-
Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, education, or a related field preferred.
-
Experience in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, or related work preferred.
-
Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
-
Ability to write clearly for a variety of audiences and platforms.
-
Knowledge of social media management and digital communication tools.
-
Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
-
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
-
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
Columbia County Civil Service residency requirements will apply (must be a resident of Albany, Rensselaer, Columbia, Greene, Ulster or Dutchess County at time of hire).
Questar III BOCES offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits, including enrollment in the New York State Employees Retirement Pension System. For more information on Questar III BOCES, please visit www.questar.org.
Email a resume with a cover letter to employment@questar.org. Be sure to include Communication Specialist in the subject line of your email.