What does a Community Engagement Specialist do?

A Community Engagement Specialist works for an organization to help promote its programs or help its clients access community programs. They generally work for several types of agencies and organizations, so the specific goals vary based on the programs and target audiences.

Community Engagement Specialists may use social media and other promotional methods to raise awareness about an organization and its programs. The role also involves maintaining records and data. This information can help organizations determine the success of the Community Engagement Specialist’s efforts.

Community Engagement Specialist skills and qualifications

Some options for your Community Engagement Specialist job description include:

• Understanding of the population they work with

• Awareness of community resources, programs and initiatives

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills

• Cultural sensitivity and potentially bilingual speaking skills

• Ability to engage participants

• Proficiency in planning and holding meetings with collaborators

• Marketing and social media skills

• Creativity and problem-solving skills

Community Engagement Specialist experience requirements

Some companies expect candidates to have at least one to two years of experience in a related position, such as outreach or communications. You might list experience working for a nonprofit or community organization in your Community Engagement job description.

Consider looking for candidates with experience related to your organization, such as education or the unhoused population. This can prepare the selected candidate for the role and enable them to engage more effectively with the population they serve.

Community Engagement Specialist education and training requirements

Formal education isn’t typically required for Community Engagement Specialists. Instead, skills-based hiring that focuses on qualities like strong communication abilities, community-building expertise, empathy and adaptability can benefit your recruitment efforts.

Job description samples for similar positions

If this Community Engagement Specialist job description isn’t a match for your vacancy, consider these related job titles:

• Community Manager

• Human Services

• Social Worker

Community Engagement Specialist job description FAQs

Do the duties of a Community Engagement Specialist vary based on the industry?

Community Engagement Specialists work for government agencies, community organizations, educational institutions and nonprofit organizations. They aim to raise awareness about the programs, but the initiatives vary depending on the hiring organization.

For example, a Community Engagement Specialist might work for a nonprofit, helping individuals with disabilities connect to community resources or become more involved in the community. Meanwhile, a government agency might hire a Community Engagement Specialist to help increase the utilization of its programs.

What should you include in your Community Engagement Specialist job description?

Highlighting your organization’s mission might attract job seekers who align with it and can make a powerful impact in the community. Include details about the types of programs they may do outreach for and the people they may work with regularly.

You could also list the resources and support your organization offers. Detail the specific education and experience requirements you expect so your Engagement Specialist job description encourages people with the right qualifications to apply.

What makes a good Community Engagement Specialist?

A successful Community Engagement Specialist supports the organization’s mission and fully understands its regulations and goals. They generally know how to connect with people from different backgrounds to inspire involvement.

Collaboration skills are important because the position typically involves interacting with people from other organizations. It’s also helpful to be highly organized since Community Engagement Specialists often work on several projects at once.

What’s the difference between a Community Manager and a Community Specialist?

While Community Specialists focus on community outreach, Community Managers focus on a brand’s reputation and the messaging with the brand’s audience. They typically interact more with an online community.