CityGov is proud to partner with Datawheel, the creators of Data USA, to provide our community with powerful access to public U.S. government data. Explore Data USA

Skip to main content
The Strength of Water:  Quieting the Flames of Conflict

The Strength of Water:  Quieting the Flames of Conflict

Many people say you should fight fire with fire. But if you think about it, this approach only guarantees more fire. Conflict cannot be resolved by pouring on more heat. It is only resolved when one party decides to stop fueling the flames. When both sides refuse to retreat, the conflict becomes an inferno that can burn indefinitely, sometimes lasting for years or even decades.

Among the classical elements are earth, air, fire, and water. Air can spread fire into new directions. Earth can smother parts of it, but embers often remain. Water overwhelms the blaze completely. Applied to human conflict, water represents composure. It is the choice to respond with clarity and strategy instead of raw reaction.

I once spoke with a young woman who asked me if it was ever professional to respond to a colleague’s hostile email with the same rude tone. She admitted that such a reply would not solve the problem, but she believed it might restore her sense of power. I asked her, “If you follow their lead, are you in control, or are they? Ask yourself that.”

The truth is that when you imitate hostility, you allow the other person to dictate the temperature of the exchange. As Pollack Peacebuilding notes, “Remaining calm and composed, using a neutral tone and body language, can shift the dynamic from confrontation to cooperation” (Pollack Peacebuilding Systems, 2023). In other words, composure keeps you in the driver’s seat; escalation hands them the wheel.

Verywell Mind also reminds us, “Address issues quickly, but remain self-regulated and avoid matching the other person’s tone” (Verywell Mind, 2023). Reacting in kind may feel satisfying for a moment, but it undermines resolution.

Cynthia Kane (2020) puts it clearly: “That pause gives you time to calm your nervous system and choose words that are productive instead of destructive.” In that pause lies the power of water: the ability to quiet the flames of conflict.

Six Steps That Helped Me Extinguish the Flame

1. Strip away what distracts from the real issue.

What helped me move past the distraction of words, accusations, or misunderstandings was focusing on the core of the issue. I would listen or read carefully to identify exactly what the other person believed was unjust, unfair, or inaccurate, and I would focus only on that. Everything else was noise. When a match is lit, do not get lost in the colors of the flame. Look at the center. That is what fuels the fire, and that is what needs to be solved.

2. See people for how they feel, not how they sound.

As a school administrator, I sometimes had to diffuse conflicts where someone spoke in a way that did not portray them as their best selves. They were too upset to present themselves calmly. My responsibility was not to define them by the harshness of their words but to hear the words as a reflection of how they felt. They were not the fire they brought into the room; they were human beings in need of understanding.

3. Acknowledge their need to be respected.

Even in heated moments, people want their fire to be seen and respected. They are demanding acknowledgement of their experience. I learned that saying something as simple as, “I can see that this upsets you, and I want us to take time to discuss this,” calms the atmosphere. When people feel seen, they are more willing to listen. This acknowledgment acts like water cooling the environment, so facts, not just feelings, can be discussed.

4. Give yourself time, one way or another.

When responding to an email, one approach that I found especially helpful was to craft my words in a way that diffused tension while still acknowledging the importance of the issue. For example, I would write: “Thank you for expressing your concern about this issue. Although I am not available to discuss this issue now, your concern is important for us to discuss. I am available for a verbal conversation tomorrow. I would like to contact you then.”

This response respects the urgency while giving you space to think. If the meeting is held in person, and you cannot directly ask for time, create it in another way: offer a cup of coffee, fetch a glass of water, excuse yourself to the restroom, or briefly step away to close out another task. That pause steadies you and gives both sides the chance to cool down before continuing.

5. Make sure both of you feel heard.

A single conversation may not solve every problem. What matters is that both of you feel heard and understood. I learned to ask at the close of difficult discussions, “Do you feel heard? Do you feel understood?” This prevents the fire from reigniting later. Even if the issue requires more evidence or a second conversation, acknowledgment ensures that the flame of frustration does not smolder beneath the surface.

6. Reset yourself after it is over.

After difficult conversations, you must release the heat you carried. Call someone you trust so they can help steady your emotions. Take a moment to disconnect by reading something funny or short and interesting, something that changes the channel in your mind. Meditate, or silently ground yourself through a faith-based practice. These acts clear away the ashes so no sparks remain to burn later.

Why Water Is Strongest

Some people thrive on fire. They expect you to mirror their aggression. But water changes the outcome. Calm acknowledgment, respectful boundaries, and controlled timing shift the power back into your hands.

Fire has never extinguished water. In professional life, as in nature, water is strongest.

References

Kane, C. (2020). Conflict resolution tips that really work. Investor’s Business Daily. 

https://www.investors.com/news/management/leaders-and-success/conflict-resolution-tips-that-really-work/

Pollack Peacebuilding Systems. (2023). 7 de escalation skills essential for defusing conflict. https://pollackpeacebuilding.com/blog/de-escalation-skills/

Verywell Mind. (2023). 6 de escalation techniques to diffuse conflict. https://www.verywellmind.com/deescalation-techniques-to-diffuse-conflict-7498049

More from 3 Topics

Explore related articles on similar topics

Top Paying Jobs in Education, Leadership Perspectives, and Communication and Speech

Highest paying opportunities related to this article

FULL TIME
Public Affairs Administrative Assistant Director
City of Charlotte

ABOUT THE ROLE The Public Affairs Assistant Administrative Director is a senior executive leadership role within the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD). Reporting to the Chief of Police or designee, this position leads and manages the department’s public affairs functions. The incumbent is responsible for managing communications for the Office of the Chief with external constituencies, coordinating effective communication during timely or crisis situations, and distributing information to City agencies, leadership, and the City Council. This role serves as a key liaison between the public information office and internal divisions to advance the department’s mission. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide communications consultation and subject matter expertise on strategies, projects, and critical law enforcement matters. - Research, analyze, develop, and implement communications plans, strategies, campaigns, and initiatives. - Lead the writing and strategic development of talking points, media materials, press releases, fact sheets, op-eds, and presentations for the Chief of Police. - Administer, coordinate, and oversee communications projects, promotions, community outreach, and the dissemination of CMPD public information. - Manage staff, including conducting performance evaluations, coordinating training, and implementing hiring, discipline, and termination procedures. - Respond to critical incidents and assist the Chief in preparing talking points and media interviews. - Professionally represent the Department to external constituencies and manage internal communications between the Office of the Chief and departmental units. - Manage external events where CMPD participates and create strategic opportunities for community exposure. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, Public Affairs, or a related field AND five (5) years of related work experience; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties. - Valid North Carolina or South Carolina Driver’s License. - Proficiency in Microsoft Office. Preferred Qualifications: - Master’s degree in public relations or a related field. - Five (5) years of work experience in law enforcement including public communications experience. - Two (2) years of supervisory experience. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: - Exceptional work ethic and ability to lead/motivate employees. - Strong written publication skills (press releases, promotional materials) using Associated Press (AP) style. - Proficiency in productivity and software analysis tools, including digital communications platforms (graphic design, email marketing, video production, social media strategy). - Project management principles and critical thinking/analysis applications. - Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations. - Ability to prioritize work demands, meet deadlines, and interpret/report statistics. - Political acumen, tact, diplomacy, and excellent interpersonal/public relations skills. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Background Check: Final candidates must pass a comprehensive background check including reference checks, SSN verification, education verification, criminal conviction record check, and potentially credit history, sex offender registry, and motor vehicle records checks. - Drug Screening: Must pass a pre-employment drug-screening test. - Physical Examination: Must pass a pre-employment physical examination. SELECTION PROCESS - Online application review. - Potential skills tests and/or other assessments. - Comprehensive background investigation. - Pre-employment drug screening and physical examination. - Reasonable accommodations are available for qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. HOW TO APPLY - Apply online via the City of Charlotte careers portal. - Job Requisition ID: JR104028. - Application Deadline: July 30, 2026, at 12:00 AM. - For questions regarding the application or hiring process, email Careers@ci.charlotte.nc.us. - Self-service application kiosks are available at the Human Resources Department lobby (700 East 4th Street, Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28202), open Monday–Friday, 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM EST. - To request reasonable accommodations or auxiliary aids, fill out the Innovation & Technology ADA request form or call 704.336.4120. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department - Location: CMPD HQ, Charlotte, NC - Schedule: Full-Time - Posted Date: July 07, 2026 - Equal Opportunity Employer: The City of Charlotte does not unlawfully discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or gender identity/expression. - Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package provided to eligible employees. - Workplace Policy: Drug and alcohol-free workplace.

Charlotte, North Carolina
$126,009.00 - $181,137.6
Public SafetyCommunication and SpeechManagement and Finance
6 days ago
Apply
FULL TIME
Police Captain
City of Stamford

ABOUT THE ROLE This is a full-time position within the Police Division of the Office of Public Safety, Health and Welfare for the City of Stamford, located at 888 Washington Blvd., Stamford, CT. Under the general direction of the Chief of Police and Assistant Chiefs, the Police Captain performs responsible administrative, supervisory, and technical work in a bureau or specialized section of the Police Department. The role involves planning, directing, and coordinating all personnel and activities within the assigned area of responsibility. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Plans, directs, and coordinates all personnel and activities of a bureau or specialized section of the Police Department - Assumes primary command responsibility as required at major incidents - Supervises Lieutenants, Sergeants, Police Officers, and civilian personnel within area of responsibility - Responsible for the effective and efficient use of resources to accomplish the mission, goals, and objectives of the Department - Conducts review and analysis audits of effectiveness of area of command and makes recommendations for improvement - Reviews actions of subordinate commanders/supervisors - Ensures personnel follow federal, state, and local laws as well as Department policy and procedures - Supervises the continuous training and development of personnel - Promotes and maintains positive relationships with the community, related criminal justice agencies, city departments, and the media - Keeps supervisors abreast of Department and/or community problems through written and oral reports - Meets and confers with members of the community regarding public safety issues - Performs related duties as required MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - This position is open only to permanent full-time employees of the Stamford Police Department - A Lieutenant must have served two (2) years as a Lieutenant as of the date of the test for Captain in order to qualify to take such test - Thorough knowledge of the management of police operations and administration, such as community policing - Thorough knowledge of controlling laws, ordinances, and department policy, procedure, rules, and regulations - Skill in the use and care of firearms and in the operation of motor vehicles - Ability to plan and organize the performance of a large number of police officers and civilian personnel - Ability to behave in a positive and fair manner to gain and maintain the confidence, support, cooperation, and satisfaction of the community - Ability to plan and coordinate the Department's response to major events/incidents - Ability to analyze situations and information and make proper judgment - Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and effectively, both orally and in writing - Sufficient strength, endurance, and agility to perform duties of the class - Ability to remain calm in stressful situations - Ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must be a current permanent full-time employee of the Stamford Police Department - Must have completed at least two years of service as a Lieutenant by the test date SELECTION PROCESS - Scope of Examination: Assessment center weighted 100% - Examination Date: Sunday, October 25, 2026 HOW TO APPLY - Application Window: July 2, 2026 to October 2, 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern - Applications must be submitted before the closing date EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Stamford - Department: Office of Public Safety, Health and Welfare - Division: Police - Bargaining Unit: POL - Job Type: Full Time - Opening Date: 07/02/2026 - Closing Date: 10/2/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

Stamford, Connecticut
$146,922.00 Annually
Public SafetyManagement and FinanceLeadership Perspectives
4 days ago
Apply
FULL TIME
Engineer Senior -- Natural Resources/Planning, Engineering & Maintenance/Charleston HQ
West Virginia

ABOUT THE ROLE Under limited supervision at an advanced level, this position performs professional engineering work at the WV Division of Natural Resources, PEM Section. Reporting to the PEM Section Chief at the DNR Building 4 headquarters in the Charleston WV Capitol Complex, the role involves supervisory-level engineering services. The incumbent is responsible for supervising PEM section engineer associates, ensuring environmental regulatory compliance, and overseeing wastewater and water treatment systems. A key responsibility includes serving as the Engineer In Charge for aerial trams, ski lifts, and sled run ground conveyance systems. The role requires managing project scope, designs, costs, and contracts to meet funding expectations and prevent delays. Preference may be given to applicants with knowledge in sanitary treatment systems or aerial/ski lift operations, maintenance, and inspections, or those willing to learn and certify these systems. Statewide travel is required. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Supervise the activities and performance of PEM section engineer associates. - Ensure environmental regulatory compliance and oversee wastewater and water treatment systems. - Serve as Engineer In Charge for aerial trams, ski lifts, and sled run ground conveyance systems. - Perform construction project management and ensure subordinate staff avoid contract expiration, deadline misses, or design delays. - Oversee subordinate interactions with consultants, contractors, and purchasing processes to reduce delays, oversights, errors, and unnecessary change orders. - Make engineering calculations and drawings or recommendations related to civil, electrical, mechanical, structural, sanitary, geotechnical, environmental, and roadway design. - Prepare quantity takeoffs and cost estimates from bidding documents. - Prepare design study reports and preliminary cost estimates for proposed engineering and construction projects. - Prepare contracts for the administration of consulting architectural/engineering services. - Furnish technical advice, consultation, and assistance applying engineering principles and practices. - Comply with Division and Section contract administration guidelines and project tracking methods. - Perform statewide travel as necessary. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Training: Current Professional Engineer (PE) license issued by the West Virginia State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers. Experience: Eight (8) years of full-time or equivalent part-time paid experience as a licensed Professional Engineer in a responsible capacity in charge of engineering projects. Note: Experience must have been acquired after the bachelor’s degree but may have occurred before or after registration as a professional engineer. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must be able to perform statewide travel. - Regular attendance is required. - Must demonstrate skill in written and oral communication. - Preference for knowledge in sanitary treatment systems, aerial tramways, ski lifts, belt driven tube or sled run lifts regarding operations, maintenance, and annual inspections, or willingness to learn and certify these systems on a yearly or bi-yearly basis. SELECTION PROCESS - Applications are reviewed based on the information provided in the resume or application. - Applicants must click the APPLY link to apply online. HOW TO APPLY - Click the APPLY link to apply online. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: Charleston, WV (DNR Building 4 headquarters, Capitol Complex). - Department: WV Division of Natural Resources, PEM Section. - Supervision: Reports directly to the Division of Natural Resources PEM Section Chief. - Travel: Statewide travel required.

Charleston, West Virginia
$70,311.00 - $125,656.00 Annually
Public WorksManagement and FinanceCommunication and Speech
14 days ago
Apply
FULL TIME
Senior Associate Athletic Director for External Operations
University of Idaho

ABOUT THE ROLE The Senior Associate Athletic Director for External Operations assists the Director of Athletics in administering sixteen intercollegiate athletic programs at the University of Idaho. This leadership role is responsible for the supervision and coordination of all external areas within the department, including Creative Content, Broadcast Production, Athletic Communications, Marketing, and Ticket Operations. Additionally, the position serves as a sport supervisor for assigned sport programs. The successful candidate will work closely with stakeholders such as campus leadership, faculty, donors, corporate partners, media, and alumni. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Assist the Director of Athletics in the administration of sixteen intercollegiate athletic programs - Supervise and coordinate external operations departments: Creative Content, Broadcast Production, Athletic Communications, Marketing, and Ticket Operations - Serve as a sport supervisor for assigned sport programs - Lead revenue generation efforts in communications, marketing, and ticketing - Manage relationships with key stakeholders including campus leadership, faculty, donors, corporate partners, media, and alumni - Implement strategic planning initiatives to drive growth and operational efficiency - Oversee organizational management and leadership functions within external operations MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor’s Degree required at time of application - Seven years of progressive leadership experience in collegiate athletics, specifically in external operations - Demonstrated success in leadership of revenue generation, communications, marketing, and ticketing - Proven experience with leadership, management, and organizational skills - Experience working with diverse stakeholders including campus leadership, faculty, donors, corporate partners, media, and alumni SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must be able to pass a criminal background check if selected as a final candidate - Visa sponsorship is not available for this position SELECTION PROCESS - Applications received by July 10, 2026, will receive first review consideration - The position remains open until filled - Final candidates must successfully complete a criminal background check HOW TO APPLY - Submit the following required documents through the University of Idaho applicant portal: - Resume or CV - Cover Letter or Letter of Application - List of References - Complete required supplemental questions regarding how you heard about the opportunity and any employee referrals - Review applicant resources at: https://www.uidaho.edu/human-resources/careers/applicant-resources EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: Moscow, ID (University of Idaho) - Division/College: Athletics - Department: Athletics General - Job Type: Full Time (1.0 FTE) - Appointment Type: Fiscal Year - FLSA Status: Exempt - Posting Date: July 1, 2026 - Closing Date: Open Until Filled (First review date: July 10, 2026) - Employer: University of Idaho - EEO Statement: The University of Idaho is an equal employment opportunity employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities

Moscow, Idaho
$85 - $100K / Commensurate with experience
Administration and AppointmentsManagement and FinanceCommunication and Speech
4 days ago
Apply
FULL TIME
Branch Librarian I
City of Boston

ABOUT THE ROLE The Boston Public Library is seeking a Branch Librarian I to assume responsibility for the administration and programs of the Adams Street Branch. Reporting to the Neighborhood Services Manager, this role involves supervising branch staff, managing collections, and stimulating library use through community outreach and programming. The ideal candidate will demonstrate administrative insight, professional leadership, and a commitment to serving patrons of all age groups within the neighborhood. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Execute library policies and practices pertaining to the branch. - Assume primary responsibility in one or more service areas based on staffing and community needs. - Provide reference, reader's advisory services, and programs for all age groups. - Stimulate library use through the development of programs, collections, and community outreach. - Supervise the development and maintenance of branch collections within library policy frameworks. - Supervise, train, and develop staff to realize their full potential. - Work collegially with other librarians, department heads, and staff. - Apply collective bargaining agreements as needed for staff supervision. - Maintain liaisons regarding the branch building and working relationships with community groups, educational institutions, and businesses. - Administer funds within the branch. - Make oral presentations and written reports on branch activities. - Participate in system-wide committees, training, and professional activities. - Represent the library on citywide and statewide committees if required. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's degree from a recognized college or university AND a Master's degree in Library Science from an accredited library school. (In exceptional instances, specialized education, training, and/or experience may be substituted). - Four (4) years of pertinent professional library experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. - Administrative insight and broad professional outlook. - Demonstrated progressive professional development. - Broad knowledge of library policies, practices, procedures, collections, and bibliographical tools. - Demonstrated knowledge of appropriate technology. - Proven skills in oral and written communication. - Proven ability to plan and supervise the work of others. - Ability to work successfully with staff and the public. - Professional demeanor, tact, dependability, good judgment, and courtesy. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Boston Residency Required. - Must successfully clear a Criminal Offenders Record Information (CORI) check with the City of Boston. - Willingness and proven ability to work with patrons of all age groups. - Commitment to library leadership within the neighborhood served. SELECTION PROCESS Applications will be reviewed based on the minimum entrance qualifications. Qualified applicants will be considered regardless of protected categories. HOW TO APPLY Apply through the Boston Public Library job portal. For questions, contact adavis@bpl.org. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: BPL Adams Street Branch, Boston, MA. - Department: Boston Public Library. - Position Type: Regular Full-Time. - Hours: 35 hours per week. - Union/Salary Plan: PSA/P-3. - Posting End Date: 12/03/2026. - Req ID: 2026-32029. - The City of Boston is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Boston, Massachusetts
75,897.18 - 98,483.73
Administration and AppointmentsManagement and FinanceCommunication and Speech
3 days ago
Apply
FULL TIME
Network Infrastructure Specialist III
State of Mississippi

ABOUT THE ROLE This is a full-time, non-state service position (X-16) with the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE), specifically within the Office of Technology and Strategic Services (OTSS). The role reports to the Director of Infrastructure and focuses on modernizing IT infrastructure through cloud adoption and automation. Current key projects include implementing Azure Landing Zones, migrating applications using Terraform and deployment pipelines, managing endpoints via Intune, administering Microsoft 365 for collaboration, and supporting application and data teams in their cloud adoption efforts. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Administer Microsoft 365 services - Manage Intune and Autopilot for endpoint administration - Administer Active Directory and Entra ID (formerly Azure Active Directory) - Administer Azure public cloud services using Infrastructure as Code (IaC) with Terraform - Perform Windows Server administration - Manage network infrastructure, including switches, Wi-Fi, and firewalls - Identify weaknesses in existing processes and infrastructure and implement solutions - Automate day-to-day tasks to improve efficiency - Collaborate with team members while also working independently - Continuously learn and adapt to new technologies in a rapidly changing landscape MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Education: - Typically requires a Bachelor’s Degree Experience: - Typically requires 5-8+ years of IT experience with an emphasis in network infrastructure, operations, and administration Skills and Abilities: - Ability to work and learn independently - Strong collaboration skills to work effectively with team members - Initiative and vision to identify and resolve infrastructure weaknesses - Proficiency in automating routine tasks - Willingness to continuously learn and grow with emerging technologies SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - This is a NON-STATE SERVICE position (X-16) - Must be able to support cloud migration projects involving Azure, Terraform, and Microsoft 365 ecosystems HOW TO APPLY - Apply through the State of Mississippi job portal - Job Number: 9549-0206-20260710HS - Application Deadline: July 31, 2026, at 11:59 PM Central - For inquiries about the position, contact John Hartley at JHartley@mdek12.org EMPLOYMENT DETAILS Employer: State of Mississippi Agency: Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) Department: 0206 - Education-Vocational & Technical Office: Office of Technology and Strategic Services (OTSS) Job Type: Full-Time Location: Hinds County, MS Opening Date: July 10, 2026

Jackson, Mississippi
$60,906.98 - $94,195.38 Annually
TechnologyInfrastructureEducation
about 6 hours ago
Apply
FULL TIME
Community Engagement Manager
County of Powhatan

ABOUT THE ROLE Powhatan County is seeking a dynamic and creative communications professional to serve as its Community Engagement Manager. This position shapes how the County connects with residents, businesses, employees, and the public through strategic storytelling, public engagement, branding, marketing, and media relations. The role involves translating complex government initiatives into clear, accessible information for diverse audiences. The ideal candidate will balance strategy with hands-on content creation, serving as a trusted advisor to County leadership and a public-facing representative. This role requires exercising independent judgment and diplomacy in handling sensitive or politically charged matters. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Serve as the County’s primary media liaison and spokesperson; coordinate and disseminate accurate, timely public information - Develop and implement strategic communications, public relations, marketing, branding, and community engagement initiatives - Coordinate crisis and emergency communications strategies with County leadership and public safety agencies - Oversee County-wide internal and external communications to promote awareness of programs, services, and projects - Develop and maintain County branding, style standards, and communication materials (digital content, newsletters, graphics, social media, video) - Oversee County digital communication platforms, including website content, usability, analytics, and social media - Develop communication strategies and action plans for major County initiatives and public engagement efforts - Advise County leadership and the Board of Supervisors on communication strategies, media relations, and citizen engagement - Monitor and evaluate communication efforts through analytics, reporting, and performance metrics - Represent the County at public meetings, community events, and engagement activities, including photography and outreach - Assist with coordination of public information and records requests - Attend Board of Supervisors meetings, public meetings, emergency response activities, and community events as required MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field - Considerable progressively responsible experience in communications, public relations, marketing, media relations, or community engagement, preferably in a local government environment - OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience sufficient to demonstrate the required knowledge, skills, and abilities - Possession of a valid Commonwealth of Virginia driver’s license with an acceptable driving record Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: - Thorough knowledge of public relations, communications, marketing, branding, media relations, and community engagement principles, particularly in local government - Knowledge of local government structure, operations, and public administration practices - Proficiency with communication platforms and tools (websites, social media, digital communications, photography, video production, graphic design, presentation software) - Skill in developing strategic communication plans and public information campaigns - Strong written and verbal communication skills for diverse audiences - Ability to produce quality graphics and images through basic graphic design, photography, and videography - Ability to establish effective working relationships with elected officials, department heads, media, and the public - Ability to serve as an effective spokesperson in high-profile or politically sensitive situations - Ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple projects simultaneously SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Portfolio Submission: Applicants must provide examples of relevant work demonstrating effective communication through written content, graphic design, photography, videography, branding, marketing campaigns, social media, and/or public engagement initiatives. Submissions must include context, objectives, and the applicant’s role. - Schedule: Evening and weekend work may be required for meetings, events, emergencies, or public engagement activities. - Reasonable Accommodation: Powhatan County provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in compliance with the ADA. SELECTION PROCESS - Application review based on qualifications, experience, and portfolio submission. - Interviews likely conducted by County leadership. HOW TO APPLY - Apply via the official Powhatan County employment portal. - Job Number: 12100-005 - Application Deadline: 07/31/2026 EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: County of Powhatan - Department: County Administration - Location: Powhatan, VA - Job Type: Full-Time - Equal Opportunity Employer: Committed to providing reasonable accommodations and non-discriminatory employment practices.

Powhatan, Virginia
$78,135.00 - $90,000.00 Annually
Communication and SpeechManagement and FinancePublic Policy
12 days ago
Apply
FULL TIME
Childrens Librarian II
City of Boston

ABOUT THE ROLE The Boston Public Library is seeking a Childrens Librarian II to assume responsibility for the effective execution of library programs serving a diverse urban population, with a specific emphasis on children. This professional role requires substantial knowledge and experience in library science, particularly in children's literature and programming. The incumbent will report to the Branch Librarian or ranking staff member and may supervise professional and non-professional staff as assigned. The position involves initiating, developing, and implementing services through consultations, reference work, outreach, and interactive community engagement. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Initiate, develop, plan, and implement library programs for children through personal consultations, reference, readers’ advisory services, outreach, and programs - Develop interactive relationships within the neighborhood to stimulate use of library resources by the community, schools, and agencies serving children and families - Plan and conduct comprehensive programming for toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children, including story hours, book talks, craft programs, puppetry, book discussion groups, and summer reading programs - Perform readers’ advisory services and handle difficult or involved reference work for the general public - Provide instruction to increase patrons’ skills in using book resources and electronic databases - Manage program funds assigned to children’s services - Develop the children’s book collection and manage the appropriate materials budget - Compile annotated lists and bibliographies involving book and non-book materials - Recommend and/or plan changes in service or new services for children - Prepare oral presentations and written reports on children’s activities within the branch library - Assist in training professional and non-professional staff - Assume responsibility for day-to-day branch operations in the absence of the Branch Librarian or other ranking staff - Actively participate in system-wide committees, training, and professional activities - Represent the Library on city-wide and state-wide committees as needed MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - A bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university - A master’s degree in library science from an accredited library school - Courses in children’s literature and children’s work taken for credit from an accredited library school - Two (2) years of pertinent professional library experience, or any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training sufficient to indicate the ability to do the work - Broad knowledge of library policies, practices, and procedures - Extensive knowledge of children’s literature, including bibliographic tools and sources - Demonstrated knowledge of techniques for programming for children - Demonstrated interest in children and library work with children - Demonstrated ability and willingness to develop strong, interactive community relationships - Demonstrated ability and willingness to assume responsibility and carry out assignments independently - Proven oral and written communication skills - Ability to search the Internet and other electronic databases - Demonstrated ability to work well with staff and public; initiative, dependability, tact, and courtesy - Ability to exercise good judgment and focus on detail SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Boston Residency Required - Must successfully clear a Criminal Offenders Record Information (CORI) check with the City of Boston - Storytelling courses and/or experience are desirable - In exceptional instances, specialized education, training, and/or experience may be substituted for part or all of the educational requirements SELECTION PROCESS - Contact Email for inquiries: adavis@bpl.org - The City of Boston is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion HOW TO APPLY - Click "Apply for this job" on the posting to submit an application - Applications can be emailed to a friend or shared on social media via the provided links EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: BPL Children, Boston, MA - Department: Boston Public Library - Position Type: Regular Full-Time - Req ID: 2026-31959 - Union/Salary Plan/Grade: PSA/P-2 - Hours per week: 35 - Posting End Date: 11/20/2026 - Openings: 1

Boston, Massachusetts
69,070.95- 89,571.13
EducationAdministration and AppointmentsHiring and Onboarding
3 days ago
Apply