Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job.
JOB OBJECTIVES
Under general direction, to develop, organize and manage the strategic City-wide communication and community engagement efforts; develop communication strategy; oversee all City communication tools, including the use of Public, Educational and Governmental Channel, social media and City websites; develop, execute and shape a comprehensive representation of the City through short- and long-term public relations/marketing strategies; administer and manage ongoing development of integrated information programs; develop community engagement strategies for citywide initiatives; plan, organize and coordinate City of Coronado signature events, and related activities; perform general administrative functions; and supervise assigned staff and ensure work quality and adherence to established policies and procedures. This position reports to the City Manager and is responsible for managing a centralized public information and media program that serves as the official communication channel between the City and the public.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
The following tasks are typical for positions in this classification. Any single position may not perform all of these tasks and/or may perform similar related tasks not listed here.
- Oversees Citywide and department-specific strategic communications efforts and develops and maintains communication plans, policies, procedures and standards.
- Establishes and executes short- and long-term public relations and marketing strategies to strengthen the City’s image through strategic messaging, branding, outreach initiatives, and media campaigns that build public trust and enhance visibility.
- Plans and develops media programs and campaigns to inform the public about City services, events, accomplishments, and initiatives.?
- Designs and manages community engagement programs and activities for City initiatives and capital improvement projects, including public outreach, events, surveys, and informational materials to increase public awareness and gather input.
- Develops and maintains content for the City’s websites and social media platforms, monitors engagement and responds to public comments and inquiries.
- Designs, writes, edits and produces public information materials such as videos, advertisements, brochures, flyers, mailers, newsletters, and other media. Works with City staff from various departments to coordinate City newsletter content.
- Provides strategic guidance to staff in City departments regarding public outreach, engagement, and involvement strategies to support City initiatives.
- Leads the planning and execution of special events such as dedications, groundbreakings, ribbon cuttings, receptions, and employee engagement activities.
- Develops and implements communication plans during emergencies; serves as the Public Information Officer in the Emergency Operations Center; and participates in emergency preparedness planning and training.
- Serves as the point of contact for the local media, and provides timely and accurate responses to media inquiries, and ensures the accuracy of information shared on behalf of the City.
- Responds to and resolves difficult and sensitive citizen complaints and inquiries and represents the City in a professional and positive manner with the community.
- Maintains imagery from City events, activities and projects for use in media, newsletters, and press releases, and manages a photo library for use in City publications digital platforms.
- Performs related duties and responsibilities as required.
Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience:
At least five (5) years of increasingly responsible professional-level communications, public relations, or marketing program administration. Local government experience is desirable but not required.
Education/Training:
Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in communications, public relations, marketing, business administration, public administration or a related field.
Licenses and Certificates:
None.
Knowledge of:Principles and practices of communications, public relations, marketing, and community outreach.
Media platforms and tools, including print, digital, social media, and web-based communication.
Strategies and tools for public involvement including surveys, public meetings, and stakeholder outreach.
Techniques for interacting with the media and preparing press releases and announcements.
Planning and preparing special events and community programs.
Methods of planning and implementing an effective public engagement program.
Supervisory principles and practices.
Principles and practices of program development and administration.
Operations and functions of municipal government.
English usage, spelling, grammar and punctuation.
Principles and practices of public speaking.
Modern office software and digital tools including word processing, spreadsheet, and content management applications.
Pertinent federal, state and local codes, laws and regulations relevant to public communications.
Ability to:
Oversee, plan, direct, coordinate, and review the work of lower-level staff.
Participate in the development and administration of program goals, objectives and procedures.
Use initiative and independent judgment within established procedural guidelines.
Organize, prioritize and coordinate multiple work activities and meet critical deadlines.
Perform administrative and analytical activities for assigned programs or departments.
Independently plan, organize and schedule work to meet administrative requirements and deadlines.
Research, analyze and evaluate programs, policies and procedures.
Operate a variety of office equipment including a computer and associated word processing applications.
Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
Understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
Establish and maintain effective relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Examination & Selection Process:
To be considered for this opportunity, please submit a completed City of Coronado employment application, along with your cover letter, resume, and a sample of your communications work, no later than 11:59 p.m. PST on June 9, 2025. Your work sample may include a press release, social media post, flyer, newsletter article, or any other material that demonstrates your writing and messaging skills.
Applicants whose qualifications best meet the needs of the position will be invited to participate in an oral interview and may also be asked to complete a written assessment. Finalists will be invited for a departmental interview with the City Manager.
