PUBLIC RELATIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER

 

START DATE:  As soon as possible

 

Position Title:  Public Relations and Communications Officer 

Department:  Superintendent   

Reports To:  Superintendent/CEO      

Union Status:  Out of Scope      

Location:  Administration Office     

Hours:  Regular Full-Time             

Annual Salary Range:  $75,182 - $98,195 depending on qualifications

Language Requirement:  English

Job Description Reviewed:  January 2026

 

 

Purpose of Position

 

Reporting to the Superintendent of Education/CEO, the Public Relations and Communications Officer is responsible for conducting environmental scans designed to identify current and emerging issues in public education and specifically Pembina Trails.  The incumbent will be responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive communication plans that align with our strategic plan and engage our target audience across various platforms.

 

 

Key Responsibilities

 

 

Duties include, but are not limited to, the following:

 

• Develops and executes a strategic communication plan to enhance the Division’s image and reputation.
• Creates engaging content for various channels, including press releases, articles, blog posts, social media posts, e-newsletters, videos, PowerPoint presentations and website content ensuring it meets accessibility standards, and is in line with the Division’s tone of voice and includes key messages.
• Manages and maintains positive relationships with media contacts, influencers, and key stakeholders to secure media coverage and maximize the Division’s exposure.
• Develops and manages internal communication strategies to ensure consistent messaging and alignment across all schools/departments.
• Develops and distributes internal communications to staff and administrators, including newsletters, emails, and announcements.
• Plans and coordinates media events, press conferences, and events of interest to communities to generate media interest and coverage and responds to media enquiries.
• Monitors media coverage and social media conversations to identify trends, opportunities, and potential risks, and develops appropriate responses.
• Collaborates with cross-functional teams to provide communication support for various initiatives, such as Division announcements, and crisis management.
• Manages the Division’s social media presence, including content creation, community management, and monitoring of social media channels.
• Measures and analyzes the effectiveness of communication initiatives using various analytical tools and provides actionable insights and recommendations for improvement.
• Works with school leaders and teachers to capture and promote student achievements, events, and school specific news.
• Provides leadership, direction, and support to the graphic designer position.
• Under the direction of the Superintendent/CEO, provides support to the Chair and Board of Trustees on communication related initiatives.
• Stays updated on industry trends, best practices, and emerging communication technologies to ensure the Division remains current.
• Collaborates with similar positions amongst Manitoba School Divisions.
• Performs other duties as may be assigned to support the efficient operation of the Department.

 

Skills and Qualifications

 

 

Skill and Knowledge – Required:

 

• A degree or diploma in Creative Communications or other recognized program in Public Relations or Communications.
• Proven experience in developing and executing integrated communication strategies across multiple channels.
• Experience in planning and delivering impactful and measurable campaigns and projects.
• Excellent communication (written and verbal), with the ability to distill complex information into clear and concise messages.
• Strong public relations, and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate and build relationships across all levels of the Division.
• Familiarity with crisis communication management and the ability to handle sensitive and high-pressure situations with professionalism and composure.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to work under pressure, multi-task and prioritize.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to exercise tact and diplomacy when dealing with confidential information.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team environment.
• Keen attention to detail.
• Demonstrated experience working with the news media.
• Proficiency with social media platforms, website management, and basic design tools.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook).
• An up-to-date knowledge of current technologies and trends in social media, design tools and applications.
• Previous experience managing employees in a unionized environment, including experience interpreting and applying collective agreement provisions.

 

 

Skill and Knowledge – Desired:

 

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in communications, media relations, or public relations.
• Experience and knowledge of the public school system and working with public organizations.
• The ability to speak French.

 

 

Conditions of Employment

 

• Police Information Check
• Child Abuse Registry Check
• Completion of Commit to Kids or Respect in Schools training
• New Employee Safety Orientation
• Accessible Customer Service and Accessible Employment
• Code of Conduct

 

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

 

• Occasional evening and weekend work required for events or special projects.
• Work is in an office environment.
• Travel within the school division is required.
• May require long periods at a desk, and time in front of a computer.
• May require light lifting and transporting of materials (i.e. communications banners or other materials)
• Class 5 Driver's License and reliable vehicle.