City of Coon Rapids Seeks Multimedia Communications Specialist to Shape the Public Story of a Growing Community

Coon Rapids, MN
As local governments across the country rethink how they communicate in a fractured media landscape, the City of Coon Rapids is making a deliberate investment in storytelling.

The city is currently accepting applications for a part-time Multimedia Communications Specialist, a role designed for a versatile digital journalist capable of operating at the intersection of traditional cable broadcasting and modern social media engagement. The position sits within the city’s Communications Division and reflects a broader shift toward transparent, resident-focused government communication that meets people where they are, both online and in their neighborhoods.

At its core, the role is about translating the daily workings of local government into accessible, compelling stories. From infrastructure updates and public safety initiatives to community events and recreational programming, the Multimedia Communications Specialist is tasked with documenting the civic life of one of Minnesota’s fastest-growing suburban cities.

A One-Person Newsroom Inside City Hall

The position functions much like a one-person production unit. The specialist researches story ideas, conducts interviews, captures video and still photography, writes scripts and articles, edits content, and delivers on-camera reports for cable television programming and digital platforms.

Much of this work supports the city’s Community Television Network, Coon Rapids Community Television Network, commonly known as CTN, which provides residents with direct access to city meetings, local features, and community programming. Content is also distributed across the city’s website, YouTube channel, email communications, and social media platforms.

This is not a desk-bound role. While the position is primarily based at Coon Rapids City Hall, it requires regular field work at city facilities, public meetings, and community spaces, including occasional assignments at CTN offices and on-location event coverage.

Compensation, Schedule, and Expectations

The Multimedia Communications Specialist position averages 24 to 28 hours per week, offering flexibility while requiring availability for some evening and weekend events tied to city meetings or community programming.

The anticipated hourly hiring range is $30.48 to $32.23, with the full salary scale extending up to $37.95 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications. Applicants should expect a fast-paced environment that rewards independence, sound judgment, and strong editorial instincts.

Skills That Blend Journalism, Technology, and Public Service

According to the official job posting, the city is seeking candidates with demonstrated proficiency in multimedia production and digital storytelling. Required and preferred qualifications include:

• Experience with Adobe Creative Suite tools such as Premiere Pro, Photoshop, and Illustrator
• Ability to operate professional video, photography, and portable audio equipment, including lifting gear weighing up to 35 pounds
• Strong writing and scripting skills aligned with Associated Press style standards
• On-camera presence with clear delivery and professional voice quality
• The ability to gather, verify, and present accurate information through interviews, observation, and research

Beyond technical competence, the role demands an understanding of public accountability. Every piece of content produced contributes to government transparency and public trust, placing a premium on accuracy, clarity, and ethical storytelling.

Inside the City’s Communications Division

Coon Rapids’ Communications Division oversees all public-facing messaging for the city, including media relations, digital content, newsletters, social media, and CTN programming. The department operates under five core values that guide both policy and practice: service, trust, teamwork, innovation, and excellence.

Those values shape the editorial tone of the work. Coverage can range from public safety briefings and infrastructure investments to human-centered stories at facilities like the Coon Rapids Ice Center, parks, and recreation programs. The unifying thread is civic connection, helping residents understand not only what the city is doing, but why it matters.

How to Apply

Applicants are required to submit examples of prior multimedia work, typically through a video portfolio or digital reel, as part of the application process. Full details, including minimum qualifications and submission requirements, are available through the City of Coon Rapids Government Jobs portal.

For content creators who thrive on variety and see local government as a living, evolving story rather than a static institution, the role offers a rare opportunity. It places a journalist’s tools directly inside City Hall, with the mandate to inform, engage, and reflect the community back to itself.

Applications are currently open through the City of Coon Rapids official employment website.

MinneapoliMedia