Communications Coordinator

The communications coordinator administers consistent brand messaging throughout the cooperative and aids the communications team in preparing effective communication and marketing materials. This position collaborates with various departments to enhance marketing and engagement efforts and works closely with the communications and engagement team to achieve the cooperative’s strategic objectives. Success in this role is demonstrated by growing brand loyalty and effectively delivering the cooperative’s message to its members, employees, and the general public.

Responsibilities:

1. Comply with established Dakota Electric Association safety and operating rules, policies, procedures, and guidelines. Be responsible for reporting any unsafe practices and/or hazards to a supervisor, manager, or Vice President. Be committed to and actively involved in Dakota Electric’s safety programs, initiatives, and performance measures. 
2. Design and develop content for various internal communication channels. Coordinate with various departments on executing their branding needs, respond to inquiries, and ensure adequate and timely communication. Collaborate with the communications team to maintain strategic alignment across the cooperative. 
3. Provide support to the team by contributing to writing and designing content for digital and print materials and publications including the cooperative’s newsletterCircuits, social media, advertisements, presentations, etc. 
4. Oversee the review, preparation, and distribution of newsletters to executive leadership and stakeholders. Utilize cooperative's media monitoring service for relevant industry updates, aligning content with organizational goals. 
5. Administer press releases and digital media outreach opportunities, monitors company articles, and other related marketing materials for promotion and visibility. 
6. Assist and participate in the preparation of the cooperative’s annual meeting, member appreciation event and other events, including employee and community/educational events. 
7. Collaborate with the team to develop and implement communications strategies that promote Dakota Electric’s brand as a trusted energy provider and community partner through programs and services, and marketing campaigns. 
8. Maintain and update content on the cooperative’s internal website “The Grid,” including digital signage, templates, and news posts for internal communication and collaboration purposes. 
9. Establish and maintain good relationships with cooperative members and local, county, state, and federal organizations. 
10. Perform related work as apparent or assigned.

Position Specifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, journalism, or related field. 
• One year of experience in marketing, communications, graphic design, public relations, social media or related field preferred. 
• Six years of experience in marketing, communications, journalism or related field in lieu of a degree. 
• Experience withAdobe Creative Suite programs with particular emphasis on InDesign, Illustrator and Photoshop are preferred.

Key Competencies:

• Must be organized, efficient, reliable and detail-oriented with strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to collaborative teamwork. 
• Proficiency using graphic design software to create graphics for print and digital content. 
• Possess a basic understanding of design principles, printing procedures, photography, and illustration. 
• Must have excellent oral and written communication skills as well as function effectively under deadline pressure. 
• Adept at working in Microsoft Office apps and services or ability to learn and research as needed. 
• Adept at working with various social media platforms including Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn etc. 
• Must have excellent organization skills and be proficient at multitasking and effectively managing various responsibilities. 
• Exhibit a professional demeanor, innovative thinking, and the ability to contribute positively to a small team. 
• Ability to relate to people of diverse backgrounds, training, and experience. 
• Personal qualities of integrity, credibility and a commitment to Dakota Electric’s promise of service.