Public Safety Community Engagement Lead (Media)

City of Paducah, KY; Paducah (KY); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Paducah, KY seeks a Community Engagement Coordinator to develop and manage police department outreach, public relations, and digital media presence. The role bridges the department and community, building trust, transparency, and partnerships.

The ideal candidate brings a strong background in multi-media journalism, including video production, photography, and clear written communication to keep the public informed.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Mass Communications, Public Relations, Digital Media, or a closely related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 2 years of experience as a multi-media journalist (MMJ), news reporter, digital content producer, professional public relations role, or any combination of experience and training that demonstrate knowledge of the position.
• Technical Skills: A digital portfolio or reel demonstrating high-quality video production, photography, and written work is desirable. Highly desirable skills include knowledge of standard police department operations and terminology, and experience with graphic design tools.
• Legal Requirements: Must possess a valid driver’s license and pass an extensive background check.

Responsibilities

• Community Programming: Plan, coordinate, and attend community events such as Citizens Police Academies, neighborhood meetings, and youth outreach programs.
• Social Media Management: Manage and grow the department’s official social media platforms. Monitor community engagement and respond to inquiries in a timely and professional manner.
• Content Creation & Storytelling: Write, shoot, and edit compelling video packages, photo essays, and articles highlighting department initiatives, community interactions, and crime prevention tips
• Media & Public Relations: Draft press releases, coordinate media availability, and assist Department Command Staff during critical incidents, press conferences, or community events.
• Crisis Communication: Assist in disseminating accurate, real-time information to the public during emergencies or major public safety incidents using digital and broadcast channels.
• Internal Communication: Produce internal newsletters, videos, or profiles to boost morale and highlight the work of sworn and civilian staff.
• Anticipates, identifies, and manages potential issues
• Strong decision-making, problem solving, time management, multitasking, negotiation, critical thinking, attention to detail, follow-up, organizational and analytical skills.
• Strong organizational skills and public speaking skills.
• Must be willing to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings, weekends and holidays for community events or developing situations.
• Performs all other duties as assigned

Skills

Multimedia journalism

Video production

Photography

Written communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Mass Communications, Public Relations, Digital Media, or related field

Tools

Graphic design tools

Job description

The City of Paducah, KY seeks a Community Engagement Coordinator to develop and manage police department outreach, public relations, and digital media presence. The role bridges the department and community, building trust, transparency, and partnerships.

The ideal candidate brings a strong background in multi-media journalism, including video production, photography, and clear written communication to keep the public informed.