STAFF ASSISTANT - COMMUNITY RELATIONS na The Villages Community Development Districts

Do you thrive in an environment that is geared towards outstanding hospitality?  Do you have a passion for being innovative and creative?  Is hard work on your top list of ideals?  Are you a steward of your working environment?   Then read on…

The Villages Community Development Districts (The District) tops the list of community development districts that continue to grow in one of the most scenic locations in Florida, The Villages. Our collective commitment to hospitality, innovation & creativity, hard work, and stewardship helps employees thrive and excel in many fields within The District. An immediate full-time opportunity exists for an individual with commitment, a “passion” for excellence, and a “drive” for accuracy to join our Customer Service team. This position requires a solid background of advanced customer service skills used daily.  The incumbent will enjoy a challenging atmosphere and be part of a productive team that supports all departments within The District and our surrounding community. The District is looking for an individual with a desire to utilize their cutting-edge customer service skills.  The District provides a supportive and engaging workplace that is committed to developing great talent, coupled with competitive compensation and benefits.  Do not pass up this opportunity to be a part of a positive, expanding organization. 

Competitive Benefits as a full-time employee of the District include:

• Medical Insurance (fully paid for employee single coverage)
• Voluntary health benefits, including Dental and Vision Insurance
• 401(a) Retirement Plan, with contributions funded by the District 
• 457(b) Retirement Plan, permitting employee pre-tax deferrals
• Flexible Spending programs for both Medical and Dependent Care
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Time Off
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligible
• Tier 2 qualifying organization for The Villages Charter School

JOB SUMMARY

The Communications Assistant provides essential support to the Communications Coordinator in executing the District’s communications and public relations strategy. This position assists in content creation, digital platform maintenance, event coordination, public information responses, and the production of various publications. The Communications Assistant helps ensure timely, accurate, and consistent communication that aligns with the District’s Core Values and reinforces its brand across all platforms.  

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Includes, but not limited to) 

Digital Content Support

• Assist in the daily maintenance and updates of the District’s website.
• Prepare, post, and archive content for social media platforms, the District website, and e-Notifications.
• Upload documents and digital files to online platforms as directed.
• Support video production and photo documentation for use in publications and online content. 

Writing & Content Creation

• Draft social media captions, website blurbs, newsletter inserts, and email announcements.
• Assist in compiling content for the Weekly Bulletin, Annual Report, and other communication materials.
• Proofread and edit documents for clarity, grammar, and alignment with brand voice. 

Graphic Design & Layout

• Use templates or design tools to assist in creating flyers, digital banners, posters, and brochures.
• Coordinate with vendors and staff for print and production deadlines.
• Support the maintenance of the District’s image and media library. 

Community Event & Engagement Support

• Assist in organizing logistics for District events and programs, including Government Day, Lifestyle Expos, and CDD Orientation.
• Attend events to help set up materials, greet attendees, or provide communications coverage (e.g., live posts, photography).
• Track community feedback during events and prepare notes for post-event analysis. 

Administrative & Departmental Support

• Maintain a schedule of recurring communication tasks and deadlines.
• Monitor and organize resident inquiries directed to the Communications Division.
• Assist in incident report follow-ups, ensuring timely and professional communication.
• Support internal communication efforts as needed (e.g., interdepartmental memos, onboarding materials). 

Additional

• Performs other duties as assigned.
• May be expected to perform additional duties in an emergency. 

ESSENTIAL EXPECTATIONS OF PERFORMANCE AND BEHAVIOR (Includes, but not limited to)

• Fosters a collaborative team environment by supporting the Communications Coordinator and working cooperatively with internal departments and external stakeholders. 
• Demonstrates clear, professional communication by presenting ideas, updates, and information in a concise and well-organized manner, both verbally and in writing.
• Maintains strict confidentiality when handling sensitive internal communications, documents, or resident interactions.
• Models behaviro to the District Core Values at all times.  Takes initiative and shows accountability by meeting deadlines, proactively identifying communication needs, and seeking clarification when needed.
• Demonstrates adaptability and a willingness to learn, especially when working with evolving communication tools, platforms, and procedures.
• Represents the District with professionalism during public events, presentations, or when responding to community inquiries. 

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE 

• Associate’s degree in Communications, English, Public Relations, Journalism, or related field; minimum of 1-year related experience and/or training, preferably in the public sector; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Experience may substitute on a year for year basis for the required education.

MINIMUM CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

• Valid Florida Driver’s License required.
• All candidates and employees must successfully pass background screening. 

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (Includes, but not limited to) 

Knowledge:

• Knowledge of grammar, style guides (e.g., AP Style), and clear communication techniques.
• Understanding of traditional and digital media platforms (e.g., press releases, social media, websites).
• Awareness of communication strategies during emergencies or public incidents.
• Basic principles of public and media relations.
• Familiarity with government/public sector communication protocols. 

Skills:                                                                   

• Proficiency  in drafting newsletters, flyers, website updates, or speeches.
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office, email, content management systems, and Canva.
• Proficient in public speaking.
• Experience with event management.

Abilities: 

• Ability to handle sensitive information responsibly.
• Ability to tailor communication based on audience needs (e.g., public, media, elected officials, internal/external).
• Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and prioritize tasks effectively.

EQUIPMENT (Includes, but not limited to)

Position regularly requires the use of office equipment, including but not limited to telephones, personal computers and productivity software, copier, printers, scanners, and fax machine, as well as audio visual equipment.  

Position requires use of District vehicles.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS  

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

While performing the duties of this job the employee will be exposed to the following:

• The employee is exposed to an interior office environment, with moderate change in temperature. The work environment is inside an air-conditioned building. 
• Employee is exposed to outdoor weather environment with changes in temperature as needed. 
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

There are frequent interruptions from the staff and the public for information or assistance.

Physical Requirements

The physical requirements described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

While performing the duties of this job, the following applies:

• • Frequently required to sit for long periods of time, work on computer, stand, bend, talk, and hear, required to walk, use hands, reach, and handle or feel objects or controls. 
• • Occasionally required to lift and or move up to 25 pounds. 
• • Required to spend time outdoors meeting residents.