Assistant to Town Manager - Communications Coordinator

Town of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts; Shrewsbury; On-site; USD 68,000 - 73,000; Full time

Job summary

The Town of Shrewsbury is seeking a Communications Coordinator to enhance community engagement through innovative communication strategies. This leadership role involves overseeing all communication efforts, from managing the Town’s website and social media to acting as the Public Information Officer during emergencies. Ideal candidates will have experience in communications and a Bachelor's degree in relevant fields.

Benefits

High-quality health insurance

Three weeks of vacation from day one

Employee Assistance Program

Professional development opportunities

Paid Family and Medical Leave

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience in communications, public relations, or marketing.
• Willingness to complete MEMA Incident Command System certifications.
• Proficiency in managing digital platforms and social media.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic communications plan.
• Manage and grow the Town's digital presence.
• Build partnerships with media and community groups.

Skills

Communications

Public Relations

Marketing

Leadership

Digital Management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, Business Administration, Political Science, Public Administration

Job description

Weekly Hours: 37.5 Hours / Week

Title: Assistant to Town Manager - Communications Coordinator

Location: Town Hall

Bargaining Unit: Non-Union

Hiring Range: $68,015 - $72,500 (DOQ)

Department & Supervisor: Town Manager

Summary

The Town of Shrewsbury, Massachusetts is excited to invite applications for the role of Communications Coordinator, a unique opportunity to shape how one of the Commonwealth’s most vibrant and fast-growing communities connects with its residents and tells its story. Located just west of Worcester, Shrewsbury is home to approximately 40,000 residents and is known for its strong sense of community, commitment to innovation, and tradition of excellence in local government.

As a key member of the Town Manager’s Office, you’ll take the lead in developing and delivering strategic communications that promote transparency, civic engagement, and community pride. You’ll be at the helm of all Town communication efforts, from managing the Town’s website and dynamic social media presence, to overseeing media relations, public access programming, and creative campaigns that amplify the work of every Town department.

In this leadership role, you’ll also serve as Shrewsbury’s Public Information Officer during emergency operations, ensuring residents receive timely, accurate, and essential information when it matters most. Your work will directly influence how our community stays informed, engaged, and connected.

If you’re ready to bring fresh ideas, creative energy, and a passion for public service to a community that values communication as a cornerstone of good government, we want to hear from you!

What You'll Do

• Develop and implement a bold, strategic communications plan that reaches diverse audiences with clear, engaging messages.
• Manage and grow our digital presence, including website content, social media channels, newsletters, and more.
• Build meaningful partnerships with media, community groups, and regional stakeholders to amplify Shrewsbury’s voice.
• Lead special projects like the Shrewsbury Way Resident Academy and collaborate with human resources to highlight town employment opportunities.
• Provide leadership in internal communications and maintain consistent branding across all departments.
• Respond promptly to public information requests and support transparency initiatives.
• Stay ahead of emerging media trends to continuously innovate our communications strategies.
  
  

Who You Are

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, Business Administration, Political Science, Public Administration, or related field.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in communications, public relations, or marketing; municipal experience is a plus.
• Completion (or willingness to complete within one year) of MEMA Incident Command System (ICS) certifications. Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in managing digital platforms, social media, and multimedia tools.
• Ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality.
• A collaborative, detail-oriented, and proactive approach to problem-solving.
  
  

Benefits

The Town of Shrewsbury offers an exceptional benefits package. Highlights include a pro-rated amount of three weeks of vacation from day one; high-quality health insurance; membership in the Shrewsbury Retirement Pension System; and a robust Employee Assistance Program. Shrewsbury also supports continuous growth through funded professional development opportunities and proudly stands as the first municipality in Massachusetts to provide comprehensive paid Family and Medical Leave, offering unmatched support for work-life balance.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to lead Shrewsbury’s communication efforts with passion and creativity, apply today! Join us in creating a well-informed, connected, and engaged community. For more information about this opportunity, please review the full job description. When applying for this position, a cover letter and resume may be sent via email to Kristina Ordung, Assistant Town Manager for Human Capital, at [e-mail], indicating the position you are applying for in the subject line. The position is open until filled with an initial review of applicants July 14, 2025.