Strategic City Communications Manager (Temporary)

City of Kirkland; Kirkland (WA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 112,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Kirkland in Washington is seeking a skilled Public Communications Manager for a temporary assignment through December 31, 2027. The role leads citywide information and public relations efforts, supervising staff, guiding media relations, and advising City leadership on outreach strategies.

You will craft messages for diverse stakeholders, coordinate content across channels, and support emergency communications and public involvement activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree with major course work in communications/public relations, journalism or public administration or a related field.
• Five years progressively responsible experience in developing and implementing communication and community involvement strategies and managing media relations.

Responsibilities

• Initiates new communications programs and projects to improve City communication with the community.
• Advises City leadership on communication and public involvement strategies and implementation methods.
• Coordinates media relations and provides information regarding City activities.
• Develops strategies for communicating agency initiatives and analyzes comments for City decision makers.
• Provides assistance with organization-wide complaint resolution and emergency communication support.
• Implements and maintains social media tools for public engagement.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Public relations

Public speaking

Written communication

Public involvement strategies

Media relations

Conflict resolution

Content development

Stakeholder engagement

Crisis communications

Education

Bachelor's degree in communications/public relations/public administration

Tools

Media contacts network

Job description

The City of Kirkland in Washington is seeking a skilled Public Communications Manager for a temporary assignment through December 31, 2027. The role leads citywide information and public relations efforts, supervising staff, guiding media relations, and advising City leadership on outreach strategies.

You will craft messages for diverse stakeholders, coordinate content across channels, and support emergency communications and public involvement activities.