Communications Officer

Requisition ID: 20426

Department: Ottawa Public Library

Service: Corporate Services

Branch: Communications & Marketing

Employment Type: 1 Permanent Full Time Position

Work Hours: 35 hours per week

Affiliation: CUPE 503 Library - Public Service Job

Salary Information: $66, $77,259.00 annually (2026 rates of pay)

Location: Library Main Branch, 120 Metcalfe Street

City: Ottawa, ON

Job Category: Ottawa Public Library

Application Close: 20/01/2026

JOB SUMMARY

Ottawa Public Library (OPL) provides accessible, innovative library and information services throughout the City of Ottawa, that meet the unique needs of diverse communities, delivered through a range of vehicles and reflecting a citizen-centred approach

You are responsible for preparing, producing and distributing library publications; publicizing library events and services; and assisting in the planning and preparation of special events and programs for adults and children.

Work is performed within the context of the policies and framework of the Library corporate culture as embodied in the Mission Statement, Core Values, Customer Experience Guidelines and the Canadian Federation of Library Association position statements on Intellectual Freedom and Diversity and Inclusion, with particular emphasis on providing customer service excellence

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

2-year diploma in Public Relations or related discipline.

2 years experience in related experience.

KNOWLEDGE

• Effective development of informational and promotional materials, including newsletters, Public Service Announcements, press releases
• Event planning
• Media relations and regional print and broadcast outlets
• Methods and techniques of responding to inquiries and resolving patron complaints
• General knowledge of Library policies and procedures
• Knowledge of customer service techniques and protocols
• General knowledge of Ottawa Public Library policies and procedures related to health and safety
• Knowledge of applicable health and safety legislation, including the rights and duties of workers

COMPETENCIES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Communicate effectively via information packages, promotional materials
• Coordinate and liaise with print and broadcast media outlets
• Ability to write effectively in a clear, concise manner using a variety of writing styles
• Assist with the organization of community promotional events.
• Minimum keyboard skills of 45 wpm
• Data-entry, retrieval and keyboarding skills including use of standard office equipment, including operating an IBM compatible computer in Microsoft Windows
• Use tact, discretion and confidentiality
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Perform multiple tasks concurrently
• Customer service orientation, including the use of tact, discretion and confidentiality
• Attention to detail
• Strong interpersonal skills, ability to deal with the public and handle problems as they arise
• Flexibility, ability to adjust priorities
• Ability to work effectively as a team member
• Strongly committed to quality customer service

Core Behaviours

Core behaviours define the Ottawa Public Library's expectations of the behaviours employees should demonstrate in performing their work. They are reflective of OPL's culture and values and guide all our present and future activities. Every employee is encouraged to learn, embody and demonstrate these core behaviours.

Review the Core Behaviours.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

• Language Requirement: Designated Day 1 Ready – immediate requirement for language proficiency: French: oral, reading, writing English: oral, reading, writing Candidates must meet language requirement for position upon hire.
• Additional vacancies may occur during the competition process.
• Alternative educational credentials combined with job-related experience, demonstrated performance, and ability may be considered in lieu of stated academic requirements.
• Please save a copy of the job poster. Once the closing date has passed, it will no longer be available.

We wish to thank all applicants for their interest and effort in applying for this position. Only candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.

The Ottawa Public Library promotes the principles of diversity and inclusion and adheres to the tenets of the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Ontario Human Rights Code. We encourage applications from members of Indigenous, Black and other racialized communities, persons with disabilities, women and non-binary persons, persons of all ethnic origins, religions, sexual orientations, classes, gender identities and expressions.

Candidates are encouraged to self-identify as a member of one or more designated employment equity groups in the self-identification questionnaire.

The Ottawa Public Library provides accommodation to applicants during all parts of the hiring process, upon request. If contacted to proceed to the selection process, please advise us if you require any accommodation.

Accessible formats and communication supports are available upon request. Please contact the Employee Service Centre at extension 12211 or via email at esc-