Jobs at the Des Moines Public Library

General Info

• Position Title: Marketing and Communications Specialist
• Location: Central Library
• Salary: $64,230-$76,752
• Travel Required: Yes, locally
• Position Type: Full-time
• Posting Expires: May 13, 2025

SUMMARY

Under the guidance of the Marketing and Communications Manager, this position supports the development and execution of marketing strategies to promote library services and events to the community. The role also includes monitoring and analyzing key marketing metrics and generating reports to assess progress toward departmental goals.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Create and manage engaging content across platforms for library initiatives including AViD, library cardholder campaigns, press releases, annual reports, the library website and other systemwide events.
• Perform regular audits and updates to website content to ensure accuracy, clarity, and alignment with the library’s messaging.
• Capture high-quality photos at events and library programs for use in promotional and internal materials.
• Produce film and edit video content promoting library collections and services.
• Maintain and organize an internal digital archive of photos and media content to support annual reports, marketing campaigns, and press materials.
• Develop and communicate messaging that supports the library’s strategic initiatives and public engagement goals.
• Assist in the creation and execution of marketing campaigns aligned with library-wide strategic plan objectives, particularly those focused on collection circulation.
• Build strong working relationships with library programming teams to effectively support event and program promotion.
• Contribute to the workflow and process optimization of the Marketing and Communications Department.
• Demonstrate effective project management skills by coordinating timelines, deliverables, and communication for campaigns and content projects.
• Represent the library when connecting with community organizations, external partners, and the media.
• Support departmental and cross-functional teams by participating in planning and implementation of projects, marketing strategies, and communications campaigns.
• Develop and promote the DMPL brand to targeted audiences, periodically testing for effectiveness and recognition.
• Manage on-site operations for library AVID series.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Comprehensive knowledge of current communication platforms and trends, with an emphasis on engaging community audiences through strategic messaging.
• Knowledge of email marketing platforms, including list management, content development, and campaign deployment.
• Knowledge of ADA web accessibility guidelines.
• Ability to plan and execute paid promotional campaigns across various media channels.
• Ability to develop and maintain outreach and marketing partnerships that enhance public awareness of programs and services.
• Ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with others.
• Ability to utilize photo editing tools and video software.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including occasional evenings and weekends.
• Skilled in writing, proofreading, and editing, with demonstrated experience in creating engaging content across multiple platforms.

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL ABILITIES

• Sufficient clarity of speech and hearing to be able to communicate effectively.
• Sufficient vision to be able to produce and review a wide variety of reports and related materials in both electronic and hard copy form.
• Sufficient manual dexterity to be able to access relevant library materials and operate a keyboard and mouse.
• Sufficient mobility to be able to transport materials and equipment. Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree in marketing, journalism, public relations, or a related field, and
  • At least four (4) years of successful marketing or public relations experience; or
  • An equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the duties as described.
• Preferred Qualification
  • Bilingual in English/Spanish

APPLICATION INFORMATION

Send resume and letter of application to:

Deputy Director Jon Hobbs

• Email: JTHobbs@dmpl.org
• Fax: (515) 237-1654
• Mail: 1000 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50309

Unofficial transcripts will be requested at the time of interview. 

Candidates for positions in this class must pass a post-employment offer physical examination, drug screen, and background check. 

Current employees who have their transcript and resume on file do not need to resubmit those two items at this time. Current employees must contact Jon Hobbs via email or hard copy of interest in this position before the closing date and time.