📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Communications Assistant
🔹 Company: Houston Engineering, Inc.
🔹 Location: Fargo, North Dakota, United States
🔹 Job Type: On-site
🔹 Category: 📣 Marketing Communications (MarCom)
🔹 Date Posted: Mon Mar 31 2025
🔹 Experience Level: 0-2 years
🔹 Remote Status: On-site
📌 Essential Job Details
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Development and production of documents, including writing, editing, and layout
- Creation of customized graphics and diagrams to convey technical concepts
- Collaboration with technical staff to refine content and maintain consistent style
- Management of proposal meetings, assignments, and deadlines
ASSUMPTION: This role requires an adaptive approach, accommodating varied client deliverables ranging from proposals to visual presentations.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Develop and produce documents, ensuring high-quality layout and production
✅ Create graphics and charts tailored to technical narratives
✅ Research, write, and edit proposal content, ensuring clarity and cohesiveness
✅ Facilitate proposal meetings and coordinate documentation deadlines
ASSUMPTION: Responsibilities extend beyond basic document editing to include active proposal management and cross-departmental collaboration.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in English, Writing, Mass Communications, Journalism, or related field preferred.
Experience: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Creative Suite is crucial; prior experience in marketing, sales, or technical writing is preferred.
Required Skills:
- Strong communication and critical thinking skills
- Proficiency in grammar, punctuation, and style guides
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-oriented environment
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with Adobe Photoshop and InDesign
- Experience in proposal or technical writing
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should demonstrate a balance between technical proficiency and creative problem-solving.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: Not specified; likely competitive given industry standards and company size.
Benefits:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- Generous 401(k) match and access to HSA & FSAs
- PTO, paid holidays, parental leave, and more
Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with potential for flexible scheduling.
ASSUMPTION: The benefits package reflects a focus on employee well-being, consistent with company recognition as a top workplace.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Civil Engineering, focusing on multidisciplinary solutions.
Company Size: Medium-sized enterprise with 217 employees, offering a balance of broad resources and personal growth opportunities.
Founded: 1968, with a history of innovation and community impact.
Company Description:
- Leading provider of civil engineering and consulting services
- Dedicated to community-focused projects and sustainable solutions
- Committed to fostering collaborative and innovative work environments
Company Specialties:
- Water Resources and Environmental Services
- Land and Site Development
- Geospatial Technology and Drones
Company Website: http://www.houstoneng.com
ASSUMPTION: The company's longevity and range of specialties suggest stability and a diverse project portfolio.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Entry-level role suitable for recent graduates or those with minimal experience.
Reporting Structure: Likely reports to the Marketing and Communications Department or a specific departmental manager.
Work Arrangement: Primarily on-site in Fargo, ND, with some travel required.
Growth Opportunities:
- Chance to develop industry-specific communication skills
- Exposure to a variety of civil engineering projects
- Potential for career advancement into senior roles
ASSUMPTION: The varied responsibilities provide a foundation for learning and advancement in marketing communications.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Modern, collaborative spaces designed to support teamwork and innovation.
Office Location(s): 1401 21st Ave N, Fargo, ND 58102, US, with additional offices across the Midwest.
Geographic Context:
- Fargo offers a thriving business community and quality of life
- Access to outdoor activities and cultural amenities
- Stable cost of living compared to larger urban areas
Work Schedule: Standard 9-to-5 schedule with potential for flexibility to accommodate project demands.
ASSUMPTION: The Fargo office serves as a central hub for regional projects, promoting community engagement.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application and resume submission
- Initial screening interview
- Technical or skills-based interview, if applicable
- Final interview with department leadership
Key Assessment Areas:
- Technical writing skills and attention to detail
- Ability to work collaboratively and manage time effectively
- Proficiency with relevant software and tools
Application Tips:
- Highlight any experience in drafting technical documents
- Demonstrate versatility in using graphic design tools
- Emphasize a proactive and adaptable work style
ATS Keywords: Writing, Editing, Graphic Design, Proposal Development, Technical Writing, Communication
ASSUMPTION: The application process is tailored to evaluate both creative and technical competencies.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop and InDesign
- Proposal management software (assumed)
ASSUMPTION: Proficiency in these tools is essential for integrating text and visuals effectively in communication materials.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Commitment to innovation and excellence
- Focus on community impact and partnership
- Dedication to employee growth and development
Work Style:
- Collaborative and team-oriented environment
- Flexible and adaptable to meet project demands
- Supportive of continuous learning and innovation
Self-Assessment Questions:
- How do you approach complex document and presentation tasks?
- What experience do you have with managing multiple deadlines?
- How do you ensure quality and consistency in collaborative projects?
ASSUMPTION: Company culture is likely supportive and team-driven, aligning with its service-oriented mission.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Balancing diverse tasks and priorities across projects
- Ensuring consistency in style and quality across multiple documents
- Collaborating efficiently with technical staff to meet tight deadlines
- Adaptability to evolving project and client needs
ASSUMPTION: Candidates must be prepared to handle dynamic, multi-faceted challenges typical in a fast-paced MarCom environment.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- Higher emphasis on technical document production than typical marketing roles
- Greater need for technical software proficiency compared to standard communications positions
- Potentially offers broader scope in project variety and client engagement
ASSUMPTION: The role integrates aspects of technical documentation and marketing communications uniquely within a civil engineering context.
📝 Sample Projects
- Development of client proposal documents for civil infrastructure projects
- Creation of marketing materials highlighting company strengths and project successes
- Collaborative workshops with engineering teams to refine presentation materials
ASSUMPTION: Past projects likely emphasize the integration of technical and creative skills in delivering client-focused communications.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the key projects currently underway in the department?
- How does the company prioritize between various MarCom initiatives?
- What metrics are used to evaluate the success of communication materials?
- Can you describe the team dynamics within the Marketing and Communications Department?
- How does the role support the company's broader strategic objectives?
ASSUMPTION: Asking informed questions will illustrate the candidate’s interest and understanding of the role's strategic importance.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through the company's career portal.
- Ensure your resume highlights relevant experience in writing and graphic design.
- Prepare a portfolio of past work that demonstrates your capability in technical and marketing communications.
- Be ready for potential skills-based assessments during interviews.
- Follow up with a thank-you message post-interview to express continued interest.
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
