Communications Specialist

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Communications Specialist

🔹 Company: Panhandle Community Services

🔹 Location: Dalhart Office - Dalhart, TX

🔹 Job Type: Full Time

🔹 Category: Admin - Clerical

🔹 Date Posted: 2025-04-07

🔹 Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

🔹 Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Providing outstanding customer service to clients and staff
• Managing phone calls, mail, and scheduling
• Ensuring a clean and welcoming office environment
• Promoting PCS services and programs
• Assisting with staff meetings, fundraisers, and training sessions

ASSUMPTION: This role requires strong communication, organizational, and multitasking skills. It involves frequent interaction with the public and requires a high level of professionalism and attention to detail.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Greet clients and staff, answer phone calls, and address questions and concerns

✅ Transfer and screen phone calls, take detailed messages, and notes

✅ Accept, distribute, and send mail and packages

✅ Schedule client services and notify staff members of cancellations or unscheduled visitors

✅ Check clients in and out, escort clients to appropriate areas, and maintain lobby cleanliness

✅ Enter data into appropriate systems, make copies, scan paperwork, and maintain filing systems

✅ Maintain knowledge of all PCS programs to ensure client satisfaction

✅ Restock brochures, pamphlets, and maintain proper labeling

✅ Check emails, voice mails, and return communications in a timely manner

✅ Establish and maintain professional relationships with clients and provide accurate information

✅ Promote PCS, services, programs, and fundraisers via flyers, social media, and create graphics and content

✅ Maintain confidentiality in all PCS matters

✅ Assist in coordinating and scheduling staff travel, meetings, appointments, training, etc.

✅ Maintain and build positive relationships with all levels of staff

✅ Act as a PCS point of contact and provide clerical support for the organization

✅ Conduct work ethically in accordance with PCS standards of conduct and other applicable policies

✅ Attend and participate in organizational team meetings and all staff days, some of which may be off-site and on weekends

✅ Other duties as assigned

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of multitasking, strong communication skills, and the ability to work independently. It involves frequent interaction with the public and requires a high level of professionalism and attention to detail.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent preferred

Experience: 1+ years of experience in an administrative role required; Some experience in a Community Action Agency or other similar non-profit organization preferred

Required Skills:

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines
• Excellent customer service skills
• Ability to work independently
• Ability to prioritize tasks
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software
• Proficiency in understanding, speaking, reading, and writing in English and Spanish
• Basic math skills required

Preferred Skills:

• Bilingual ability in English and Spanish

Other Requirements: Valid drivers license required. Must have liability insurance coverage.

ASSUMPTION: This role requires strong communication skills, both written and verbal, in English and Spanish. It also requires excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $16.56 - $16.56 Hourly

Benefits:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Retirement Savings Plan with employer match
• Paid Time Off (vacation, sick, and holidays)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is based on the job posting. However, the actual salary may vary based on the candidate's experience, skills, and the organization's internal policies.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: Panhandle Community Services is a non-profit, community-based organization offering a variety of programs and services to assist low-income individuals and families in the Texas Panhandle. Their mission is to work as a community leader and partner to change the lives of low-income people by bridging the gap from poverty to self-sufficiency.

Company Size: Panhandle Community Services has 51-200 employees, making it a mid-sized organization. This size allows for a more personal work environment while still offering diverse opportunities for growth and development.

Founded: Panhandle Community Services was founded in 1966 and has since grown to serve all twenty-six Panhandle counties, providing a broad base of support for the residents of the region.

Company Description:

• Panhandle Community Services offers a variety of programs and services designed to target specific poverty-related issues
• The organization works as a community leader and partner to change the lives of low-income people
• PCS provides a broad base of support for the residents of all twenty-six Panhandle counties

Company Specialties:

• Healthcare Navigation
• Medicaid Expansion
• HUD
• Family Development
• Housing Assistance
• Veterans Assistance
• Weatherization
• Panhandle Transit
• Housing Preservation
• Texas Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program
• Emergency Solutions Grant
• Utility Assistance
• RSVP
• Retired Seniors Volunteer Program
• EITC and ACES Education
• and Career Coaching

Company Website: http://pcsvcs.org/

ASSUMPTION: Panhandle Community Services is a well-established non-profit organization with a strong commitment to its mission and the communities it serves. The organization's size and longevity provide stability and opportunities for career growth.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: This role is an entry-level position, suitable for candidates with little to no professional experience in an administrative role.

Reporting Structure: The Communications Specialist reports directly to the Executive Director or their designee.

Work Arrangement: This is an on-site position, requiring the candidate to work from the PCS office in Dalhart, TX.

Growth Opportunities:

• Gain valuable experience in a non-profit administrative role
• Develop strong communication, organizational, and multitasking skills
• Build professional relationships with clients and staff
• Potential for advancement within the organization as skills and experience grow

ASSUMPTION: This role offers an excellent opportunity for candidates to gain valuable experience in a non-profit administrative setting. With strong performance, there may be opportunities for advancement within the organization.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Panhandle Community Services operates out of multiple offices across the Texas Panhandle, with this role based in the Dalhart Office.

Office Location(s): 5th & Denver Street, Dalhart, TX 79022

Geographic Context:

• Dalhart is a small city in the Texas Panhandle with a population of approximately 7,000 people
• The city is located near the state border with New Mexico and offers a low cost of living
• Dalhart is known for its agricultural industry and close-knit community

Work Schedule: The work schedule for this role is Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, with a 30-minute lunch break.

ASSUMPTION: Working in Dalhart offers a small-town atmosphere with a close-knit community. The low cost of living and agricultural industry provide a unique work environment for candidates.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Submit your application through the provided link
• Phone or video screening with the Hiring Manager
• In-person or virtual interview with the Hiring Manager and other team members
• Background check and reference check
• Job offer and onboarding

Key Assessment Areas:

• Communication skills, both written and verbal
• Organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and multitask
• Customer service skills and professionalism
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite or related software
• Proficiency in English and Spanish

Application Tips:

• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experience for this role
• Demonstrate your proficiency in English and Spanish in your application materials
• Showcase your strong communication, organizational, and multitasking skills
• Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your customer service, problem-solving, and teamwork skills

ATS Keywords: Administrative, Clerical, Customer Service, Communication, Organization, Time Management, Microsoft Office, Spanish, English

ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role is likely to involve a combination of phone or video screening, in-person or virtual interviews, and background and reference checks. Tailoring your application materials to the specific requirements of the role is essential for success.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software
• Email and calendar management tools (Outlook, Gmail, etc.)
• Telephone system (VoIP, PBX, etc.)

  ASSUMPTION: The tools and technologies required for this role are standard for most administrative positions. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and basic email and calendar management tools is essential.

  👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

  Company Values:

  • Community-focused
  • Compassionate
  • Respectful
  • Collaborative
  • Innovative

  Work Style:

  • Customer-centric
  • Team-oriented
  • Adaptable
  • Detail-oriented
  • Professional

  Self-Assessment Questions:

  • Do you have strong communication skills in both English and Spanish?
  • Are you comfortable working in a small-town environment with a close-knit community?
  • Do you have excellent organizational skills and attention to detail?
  • Can you work independently and multitask in a fast-paced environment?
  • Are you committed to providing outstanding customer service and maintaining a positive, professional demeanor at all times?

  ASSUMPTION: Panhandle Community Services values employees who are community-focused, compassionate, and committed to providing excellent customer service. Candidates who align with these values and work styles are likely to be a good fit for the organization.

  ⚠️ Potential Challenges

  • Working in a small-town environment may limit career advancement opportunities
  • The role may require working with sensitive client information, requiring a high level of discretion and confidentiality
  • The workload may be unpredictable, with varying demands depending on client needs and office traffic
  • The role may require occasional off-site travel for meetings, training, or events

  ASSUMPTION: While this role offers many benefits, such as a close-knit community and opportunities for growth, it also presents unique challenges that candidates should be aware of and prepared to face.

  📈 Similar Roles Comparison

  • Compared to other administrative roles, this position places a greater emphasis on bilingual communication skills and working with a diverse client base
  • Unlike larger organizations, Panhandle Community Services offers a more personal work environment with a strong focus on community impact
  • Career progression in this role may be slower than in larger organizations, but offers opportunities for growth within the non-profit sector

  ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique blend of administrative responsibilities and community-focused work. Candidates should consider their personal preferences and career goals when comparing this role to others in the field.

  📝 Sample Projects

  • Developing and implementing a new client intake system to streamline the registration process
  • Creating and distributing promotional materials for PCS events and fundraisers
  • Assisting with the organization's annual report, including data collection, analysis, and presentation

  ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the diverse responsibilities of the Communications Specialist role and the opportunity to make a significant impact on the organization's operations and community outreach efforts.

  ❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

  • How does the organization support the professional development and growth of its employees?
  • What are the most challenging aspects of working in a small-town environment, and how does the organization address these challenges?
  • How does the organization ensure that its employees maintain a healthy work-life balance?
  • What opportunities are there for advancement within the organization, and what steps can I take to pursue these opportunities?
  • How does the organization measure the success of its programs and services, and how can I contribute to these efforts?

  ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful questions during the interview demonstrates your interest in the role and the organization. Tailoring your questions to the specific aspects of the job and company culture shows that you have done your research and are a strong fit for the position.

  📌 Next Steps for Applicants

  To apply for this position:

  • Submit your application through the provided link
  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experience for this role
  • Prepare for phone or video screening with the Hiring Manager
  • Prepare for in-person or virtual interviews with the Hiring Manager and other team members
  • Follow up with the Hiring Manager one week after your interview to express your continued interest in the position

  ⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.