Communications Specialist

Communications Specialist Job Summary:Sparks Group is assisting a regional utilities company in Laurel, MD in finding a Communications Specialist for a long-term contract assignment. This position will work closely with the Project Outreach Manager to help ensure residents, businesses, community organizations, and elected officials receive timely, accurate, and easy-to-understand information regarding construction activities and project impacts. The ideal candidate is an organized, customer-focused communications professional who enjoys working with the public, coordinating multiple projects simultaneously, and translating technical information into clear, engaging communications. This position will require you to work onsite in Laurel, MD three (3) days a week. Communications Specialist Responsibilities:Coordinate logistics for community meetings, open houses, and public information sessions.Develop and distribute project communications, including postcards, fact sheets, mailings, meeting materials, presentation slides, and follow-up correspondence.Assist with quarterly project update newsletters and other communications distributed to residents and businesses in active construction areas.Update project webpages and assist with maintaining accurate project information across communication channels.Respond to community inquiries and coordinate responses with project teams.Prepare PowerPoint presentations, reports, spreadsheets, and other communications materials.Coordinate meeting schedules, stakeholder communications, and outreach activities with internal staff, consultants, and contractors.Support special outreach initiatives and other communications projects as assigned.Communications Specialist Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism, English, Business, or a related field preferred.Minimum three (3) years of professional experience in communications, public relations, community outreach, public engagement, event coordination, or a related field.Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including PowerPoint, Word, Excel, and Microsoft Teams.Experience developing presentations, fact sheets, newsletters, or other public-facing communications materials.Experience coordinating meetings, stakeholder engagement activities, or community events is highly desirable.