Communications and Special Projects Coordinator – Public Works

Salary: $52,000 plus benefits
Non-Union

Summary: Under the supervision of the DPW Program Coordinator and Public Works Director, the Public Works Communications and Special Projects Coordinator plays a critical role in public outreach, communications, and administrative support for all divisions of the Department of Public Works. This position is responsible for engaging with the public, coordinating service updates, managing educational campaigns, and ensuring effective communication between the department and residents.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

• Develop and distribute public information related to DPW services, including rubbish and recycling, road maintenance, stormwater management, and other municipal programs.
• Serve as a point of contact for resident inquiries related to DPW operations, collection schedules, and service issues.
• Manage the department’s social media accounts, website updates, and public service announcements.
• Plan and execute educational campaigns on waste reduction, recycling best practices, stormwater pollution prevention, and infrastructure projects.
• Organize and attend public meetings, workshops, and outreach events to engage residents on DPW initiatives.
• Coordinate and produce flyers, newsletters, and digital content to improve public awareness of DPW activities.
• Assist in managing residential waste collection and recycling programs, ensuring compliance with city ordinances and state regulations.
• Track and analyze service requests, missed collections, and recycling contamination issues, working with contractors to improve service delivery.
• Collaborate with waste haulers to address resident concerns and ensure efficient collection operations.
• Assist in preparing grant applications for recycling, sustainability, and waste management initiatives.
• Support planning for special waste collection events, such as hazardous waste drop-offs and seasonal cleanups.
• Maintain accurate records of DPW programs, service requests, and resident communications.
• Assist in the preparation of contracts, invoices, and procurement documents for DPW projects and services.
• Coordinates the Department's pursuit and maintenance of APWA (American Public Works Association) Department Accreditation.
• Assist in management of DPW GIS program implementation, coordinating with staff and consultants to design and maintain both internal and public-facing platforms. These systems will allow residents to access routine information such as trash schedules, roadwork notifications, and service boundaries in a clear, user-friendly format.
• Support budgeting efforts by tracking program expenditures and assisting with financial reporting.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and data summaries for internal use and public distribution.
• Assist in scheduling and coordinating field staff and external vendors for rubbish, recycling, and infrastructure maintenance programs.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations related to waste management, recycling, and public works programs.
• Track and compile data for required environmental and municipal reporting.
• Assist in preparing reports and presentations for city officials, boards, and committees.
• Provide support during emergency response operations, including weather-related events and infrastructure emergencies.
• Conduct field visits as needed to assess program/project status and gather data.
• Assist in developing strategies to improve DPW service delivery and customer satisfaction.
• Performs related work as required.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws and regulations relating to public works activities.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of public works administration.
• Ability to understand and carry out complex administrative and technical oral and written instructions.
• Ability to work well with others and to secure the cooperation of others.
• Ability to successfully work with and serve a diverse local community.
• Experience using computer applications and platforms used in the operation of public works departments, including professional graphic design software.
• Strong communication and public relations skills, with experience in community engagement.
• Knowledge of municipal waste management, recycling regulations, and DPW operations.
• Proficiency in social media management, website content creation, and digital outreach.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to analyze data, generate reports, and make recommendations for program improvements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, website content management, and customer service software.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to communicate in multiple languages (Spanish and Portuguese preferred).

Physical Requirements and Work Environment: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Work is primarily performed in an office setting, with occasional field visits required.
• The employee may be exposed to outdoor weather conditions and public works job sites.
• The employee must be able to lift and carry materials up to 25 pounds occasionally.
• Must be available for occasional evening and weekend meetings or events as required.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Administration, or a related field.
• 2+ years of experience in public outreach, communications, municipal government, or administrative support in a public works or environmental services setting.
• Experience in digital media, social media management, or community engagement (preferred).
• A valid driver’s license is required.

Examination Weight: 100% Oral

Application Procedure: Apply online at the City of East Providence Employment website on ADP Workforce Now.

Application Deadline: Friday, December 19, 2025.

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At the City of East Providence we celebrate the diversity of our citizenry, and are proud to encourage inclusiveness in our workforce. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age or disability in employment or the provision of services.

ADA/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER