Summary
The City of Garland seeks a results-driven, detail-oriented and creative Social Media Strategist to plan, create and manage strategic digital communications that inform, engage and inspire the Garland community. This role is responsible for developing content that reflects the City’s values, strengthens its reputation and positions its social media platforms as a model for civic engagement and innovation. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong initiative, organizational discipline and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining consistency, quality and accountability.
Pay Range: $58,614 - $65,655 (Depending on qualifications and experience)
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. (Other duties or special projects may be assigned).
Develop, implement and maintain a comprehensive social media strategy that aligns with City objectives and departmental communication plans.
Create and facilitate a shared digital content calendar for all City and departmental social media efforts, ensuring transparency, organization and accountability.
Manage consistent posting schedules across all major platforms (Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter, Nextdoor, LinkedIn, YouTube, etc.).
Produce engaging, original and influencer-style multimedia content regularly that showcases City operations, departments, events and the community.
Capture, edit and publish high-quality photos and videos.
Lead live social media coverage for key City events and initiatives.
Design and oversee paid social campaigns.
Ensure all posts are accurate, timely and visually consistent with City branding and messaging standards.
Monitor, moderate and respond to public comments and messages in a timely, professional and customer-focused manner.
Collaborate daily with internal stakeholders and department communicators to identify content opportunities, maintain alignment and promote Citywide initiatives.
Provide guidance and training to departmental social media users to ensure consistent tone, style and engagement practices.
Identify and collaborate with community ambassadors or influencers (local organizations, volunteers, etc.) to extend reach and engagement.
Track and report on performance metrics, including engagement rates, impressions and follower growth.
Monitor brand sentiment across platforms, implementing social listening tools to surface key trends and escalating reputational issues when needed.
Provide regular data-driven insights and recommendations for continuous improvement.
Stay ahead of emerging social platforms, features and content formats, proposing experiments and pilot campaigns for innovation.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, public relations, journalism, digital media or a related field
3-5 years of experience managing the social media presence and strategy for a mid-to-large-sized organization
Portfolio and/or links to social media accounts you’ve managed
Preferred Qualifications
Fluency in Spanish, both spoken and written
Certification in social media/digital marketing
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Deep understanding of social media strategy
Proficiency with major social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter, Nextdoor, LinkedIn, YouTube, etc.) and social media management and analytics tools (Meta Business Suite, Hootsuite, Sprout Social, etc.)
Proven ability to create influencer-style and multimedia content that builds community connection
Competence in graphic design and video editing tools (Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, etc.)
Strong copywriting, editing, and proofreading skills with excellent attention to detail
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Consistent accountability, punctuality and responsiveness to deadlines and communications
Ability to maintain confidentiality when dealing with sensitive information
Ability to work evenings and weekends, as needed, for events and campaigns
Licenses and Certifications
Valid Class C Texas driver's license
Physical Requirements / Work Environment
The incumbent works in a typical office environment; relatively free from unpleasant environmental conditions or hazards. Includes traveling to various sites for content creation.