Communications Manager

Jackson County, Missouri; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 70,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

Jackson County, Missouri's Communications Department seeks an experienced leader to manage daily operations, supervise staff, and oversee public-facing materials. The role supports strategic planning and crisis communications, serving as a trusted partner with the Director and county stakeholders.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor’s degree and 5+ years in communications, with strong writing, editing, and public speaking skills, plus government or public-sector experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in communications, public information, or related field, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Strong leadership and staff management skills.
• Demonstrated knowledge of public information practices, crisis communication, and media relations.
• Excellent writing, editing, and public speaking skills.
• Experience working with government, media, or the public sector is strongly preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment and respond effectively under pressure.
• Must submit to/pass pre-employment drug screen/background check

Responsibilities

• Responsible for the daily operations of the Communications Department and supervises communications staff under the direction of the Director of Communications.
• Oversee production of public-facing materials, including press releases, newsletters, website content, and social media updates.
• Assists the Director with strategic planning and serves as a trusted partner in crisis communications, media response, and public outreach.

Skills

Leadership and staff management

Crisis communication

Public speaking

Writing

Editing

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Communications/Public Relations/Journalism/Marketing

Job description

It’s fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they’re doing!

We’re committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business.

Department: Communications

Grade: 270

Salary: $73,736/year

Job Duties:

• Responsible for the daily operations of the Communications Department and supervises communications staff under the direction of the Director of Communications.
• Oversee production of public-facing materials, including press releases, newsletters, website content, and social media updates.
• Assists the Director with strategic planning and serves as a trusted partner in crisis communications, media response, and public outreach.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in communications, public information, or related field, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Strong leadership and staff management skills.
• Demonstrated knowledge of public information practices, crisis communication, and media relations.
• Excellent writing, editing, and public speaking skills.
• Experience working with government, media, or the public sector is strongly preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment and respond effectively under pressure.
• Must submit to/pass pre-employment drug screen/background check

ESSENTIAL COMPETENCIES

• Transparency & Accountability – Demonstrates integrity and ensures information shared with the public is accurate, clear, and consistent with organizational values.
• Crisis Communication – Responds quickly and effectively under pressure, providing calm, accurate, and coordinated messaging during emergencies.
• Community Trust & Engagement – Builds strong relationships with community members, media, and stakeholders, fostering confidence in government communications.
• Leadership & Team Management – Provides clear direction, mentorship, and support to staff while maintaining high professional standards.
• Strategic Thinking – Anticipates communication needs, develops proactive strategies, and aligns messaging with organizational priorities.
• Collaboration – Works effectively with internal departments, elected officials, and partner agencies to ensure unified and effective communication.
• Adaptability – Remains flexible in managing multiple priorities and responding to evolving situations.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of department policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of managing employees
• Knowledge of performance reviews
• Knowledge of Legislative, County and Departmental administrative policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of statistical techniques necessary for performance reporting.
• Knowledge of interviewing and counseling as to communicate with professionals, community representative and citizens.
• Knowledge of interpersonal communication skills.
• Knowledge of report writing techniques and methods.
• Knowledge of local news media.
• Knowledge of strong public speaking and business writing skills.
• Knowledge of public relations techniques and methods.
• Skill in proper use, spelling and composition of English.
• Skill in data processing and computer usage.
• Skill in word processing and keyboarding.
• Skill in process change utilizing technology to improve county services to citizens.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work environment is primarily indoors, within a modern smoke-free office setting, where noise and temperature levels are moderate.

If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you’ll enjoy your career with us!