Why Some Cities Win on Social Media (And Others Get Ignored)

ABOUT THE ROLE The San Francisco District Attorney's Office seeks a Director of Communications to provide strategic leadership and direction for all internal and external communications and marketing. This role shapes the Department's public image, oversees brand consistency, and develops comprehensive strategies to advance organizational goals, inform the public, and build trust. The ideal candidate is a highly skilled, creative writer who thrives in media relations and has a track record of executing successful strategic communications and public affairs strategies. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Develop and implement an integrated communications and marketing strategy aligned with the department's mission and policy priorities. - Advise executive leadership on messaging, public engagement, and reputation management. - Oversee crisis communications planning and rapid-response protocols. - Lead the development and execution of marketing campaigns and enforce brand and visual identity guidelines. - Utilize data and analytics to evaluate campaign effectiveness. - Serve as the primary media contact and spokesperson for the department. - Develop and maintain strong relationships with media outlets, stakeholders, and community organizations. - Oversee press releases, media advisories, speeches, and briefing materials for leadership. - Coordinate press conferences, public announcements, and outreach events. - Guide messaging for internal audiences to promote transparency and employee engagement. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Journalism, or a related field; AND 2. 8 years of progressively responsible experience in strategic communications, marketing, or public affairs, of which 3 years must include experience supervising professionals. 3. Substitutions: An advanced degree may substitute for one year of experience. Additional relevant experience may substitute for the required degree on a year-for-year basis (up to a maximum of 2 years). SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must obtain and maintain a DOJ/FBI Live Scan security clearance to access criminal justice systems and information. - Ability to work outside normal office hours as needed. - Desirable qualifications include a Juris Doctorate or advanced degree, professional experience in government or large nonprofit communications, and proficiency in G Suite, Word, Excel, SharePoint, Teams, and PowerPoint. SELECTION PROCESS - Desirable qualifications will be used to identify candidates advancing to the interview process and to identify job finalists at the end of the selection process when referred for hiring. HOW TO APPLY - Apply using SmartRecruiters, the City and County of San Francisco's application portal. - For questions, contact Shavaun Tolliver at shavaun.tolliver@sfgov.org or Richard Ng at richard.ng@sfgov.org. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: District Attorney - Job Class: 0931-Manager III - Role Type: Permanent Exempt (PEX). Employees serve at the discretion of the appointing officer and are not subject to civil service selection, appointment, and removal procedures. - Hours: Full-time - Application Opening: September 28, 2026 - Application Deadline: To be determined (recruitment may close at any time) - Location: San Francisco, CA

ABOUT THE ROLE The Senior Manager of Communications leads the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) communications and information functions, ensuring clear, accurate, and timely messaging to customers, stakeholders, and the community. Reporting to the Director of Marketing and Communications, this role develops and executes integrated communications strategies that support service delivery, build ridership, provide operational transparency, and build public trust. Note: Employees hired into this role will remain City of Charlotte employees through December 31, 2026, and will transition to the newly created Metropolitan Public Transit Authority (MPTA) on January 1, 2027, with no break in service. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Develop and implement communications and marketing strategies supporting service priorities and public information needs. - Oversee development and dissemination of service-related communications, including changes, disruptions, and planned initiatives. - Lead media relations activities, including press materials, inquiries, interviews, and briefings. - Lead internal communications for employees, partnering with HR and leadership to ensure timely and effective messaging. - Oversee content and performance of digital communication channels, including websites, social media, and alerts. - Lead development and execution of crisis communication protocols and response strategies during major incidents. - Lead and manage communications staff, establishing performance expectations and professional development priorities. - Coordinate with Marketing, HR, Customer Service, Planning, Operations, Legal, and executive leadership for integrated messaging. - Evaluate emerging communications tools and implement improvements to workflows and performance tracking. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, public administration, or a related field. - Ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in public communications, media relations, or public information (or an equivalent combination of education and experience). - Preferred: Master’s degree, public-sector or transit experience, crisis communications experience, digital platform oversight, and experience leading professional staff. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must pass a pre-employment drug-screening test and physical examination. - Must pass a comprehensive background check (including reference, SSN, education, criminal, credit, sex offender registry, and motor vehicle records checks). - May involve work outside normal business hours, including weekends, during service disruptions, emergencies, or major public initiatives. - Employment will transition from the City of Charlotte to the Metropolitan Public Transit Authority (MPTA) on January 1, 2027. SELECTION PROCESS - Standard application review. - Candidates may be asked to take a skills test and/or participate in other assessments during the selection process. - Final candidates must successfully complete background checks and pre-employment drug/physical screenings. HOW TO APPLY - Apply online via the City of Charlotte careers portal. - Self-service application kiosks are available at the Human Resources Department lobby (700 East 4th Street, Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28202), Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (EST), excluding official City holidays. - For questions about the application or hiring process, email Careers@ci.charlotte.nc.us. - Reasonable accommodations for the application process can be requested via the Innovation & Technology ADA request form or by calling 704.336.4120. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Charlotte (Charlotte Area Transit System Department) - Job Type: Full time - Job Requisition ID: JR104474 - Location: Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center, Charlotte, NC - Closing Date: September 30, 2026 - Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package provided by the City of Charlotte (transitioning to MPTA provisions in 2027). - The City of Charlotte is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a drug and alcohol-free workplace.

ABOUT THE ROLE The Senior Manager of Marketing serves as the senior leader responsible for the strategy, execution, and performance of the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) marketing and promotional functions. Reporting to the Director of Marketing and Communications, this role provides leadership for marketing programs supporting ridership growth, fare initiatives, brand awareness, and customer engagement. The position holds accountability for both strategic direction and operational execution, directly overseeing marketing staff while establishing systems and processes to support future organizational scaling. CATS is currently transitioning to the newly created Metropolitan Public Transit Authority (MPTA). Employees hired into this role will remain City employees through December 31, 2026, and will transition to MPTA employment on January 1, 2027, with no break in service. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide strategic leadership for marketing programs supporting ridership growth, fare initiatives, and service awareness. - Lead development and execution of integrated marketing campaigns across digital, print, broadcast, and community channels. - Establish and maintain brand standards, messaging frameworks, and visual identity guidelines. - Develop and oversee marketing strategies supporting fare programs, promotions, and service initiatives. - Establish performance metrics, analyze engagement data, and prepare reports to guide decision-making. - Provide direct supervision of marketing staff and build scalable systems for future organizational growth. - Collaborate with Communications, Customer Service, Operations, Planning, and Finance teams to ensure alignment. - Develop and manage marketing budgets and oversee procurement and contract administration for vendors. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, business administration, public administration, or a related field. - Ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in marketing, branding, or promotional program management (or an equivalent combination of education and experience). - Preferred: Master's degree in marketing, business administration, or public administration; demonstrated experience leading marketing programs with performance accountability; staff management experience; public-sector, transit, or transportation experience; experience supporting fare programs or managing marketing vendors. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must pass a pre-employment drug-screening test and physical examination. - Must pass a comprehensive background check, which may include reference, education, criminal conviction, credit history, sex offender registry, and motor vehicle records checks. - Work is primarily in a professional office environment but may require extended periods of sitting, occasional travel, and work beyond normal business hours, including weekends, during major campaigns. SELECTION PROCESS - Candidates may be asked to take a skills test and/or participate in other assessments during the selection process. - Final candidates must successfully complete background checks, drug screening, and a physical examination prior to employment. HOW TO APPLY - Apply online through the City of Charlotte careers portal. - 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 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. EST, excluding official City holidays). - For questions about the application or hiring process, email Careers@ci.charlotte.nc.us. - Reasonable accommodations for the application process can be requested via the Innovation & Technology ADA request form or by calling 704.336.4120. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Charlotte / Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) - Department: Charlotte Area Transit System Department - Job Requisition ID: JR104475 - Job Type: Full time - Location: Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center, Charlotte, NC - Closing Date: September 30, 2026 - Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package provided. - Equal Opportunity Employer: The City of Charlotte does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or gender expression.

ABOUT THE ROLE Prince William County is hiring its first-ever Sustainability Communications and Engagement Manager within the Office of Sustainability. This role serves as a bridge between technical expertise and public understanding. The manager will develop strategic communications, educational campaigns, and engagement initiatives to increase awareness of environmental sustainability programs, encourage community participation, and help stakeholders understand how these initiatives improve quality of life. The position supports the implementation of the County’s Community Energy and Sustainability Master Plan to meet Climate Mitigation and Resiliency goals. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Develop public communications and outreach materials focused on renewable energy, energy conservation, and natural resource protection - Create campaigns highlighting available incentives and programs for residents and businesses - Support the development of progress reports, including the county’s Environmental Sustainability Annual Report - Translate complex technical, scientific, or policy-related information into clear, accessible messaging for diverse audiences - Create engaging content across multiple channels, including websites, newsletters, social media, presentations, and reports - Plan and implement public engagement campaigns to build awareness and strengthen community partnerships - Write and edit communications products such as annual reports, media releases, feature stories, and educational materials - Collaborate with communications professionals, technical staff, and organizational leadership - Build relationships with community organizations, businesses, and industry partners to advance strategic initiatives - Track legislative or policy developments and prepare briefing materials for leadership - Manage multiple communications projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment - Use analytics and audience feedback to evaluate and improve future outreach strategies - Pursue and secure funds or resources to support the implementation of strategic plans MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - High School Diploma or GED - 7 years of professional experience developing, facilitating, and delivering strategic engagement plans and communication programs that support programmatic initiatives, including developing reports, office publications, and outreach materials for internal and public audiences - Preferred: Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Communications, Marketing, Environmental Sustainability, or a related area SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - May be required to attend meetings or events outside of standard work hours a few times a quarter SELECTION PROCESS - Applications will be reviewed based on the stated minimum and preferred qualifications, with a focus on the candidate's ability to act as a strategic communicator, translate technical information, and execute public outreach initiatives HOW TO APPLY - Submit an application through the Prince William County Government official employment portal - Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss potential reasonable accommodations with the employer by contacting Human Resources EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: Prince William County, VA - Job Type: Full-Time - Department: Executive Management (Office of Sustainability) - Job Number: 202610773 - Grade: C51 - Opening Date: 08/25/2026 - Closing Date: 9/21/2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time - Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, 37.5 hours weekly; telework allowed two days a week, dependent upon business needs - Benefits: Virginia Retirement System (VRS), 401a and 457 retirement savings plans, paid annual, personal, and sick leave, paid holidays, optional group medical and dental health plans, optional group life insurance, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), career development opportunities, and eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) - Employer: Prince William County Government

ABOUT THE ROLE Baltimore City’s Department of Recreation and Parks (BCRP) is seeking a creative, strategic, and experienced leader to serve as the Chief of Marketing and Media Services. Reporting to the Deputy of Administration, this role leads the department’s marketing efforts, manages the daily operations of the marketing and media office, and serves as the agency’s spokesperson. The ideal candidate will develop comprehensive marketing strategies, build brand awareness, manage crises, and represent the department before media, legislative committees, and major events. This is a non-civil service position. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Develop and implement a comprehensive annual strategic marketing and communications plan aligned with agency priorities - Develop proactive communications strategies to strengthen public trust and protect the agency’s reputation - Serve as communications advisor to executive leadership, preparing messaging, speeches, and talking points - Oversee multiple marketing projects, establish priorities, manage deadlines, and ensure timely delivery - Collaborate with other divisions to identify communication needs and ensure consistent promotion of programs - Lead, coach, develop, and evaluate marketing and communications staff - Lead crisis communications planning and serve as key advisor during emergencies or sensitive issues - Establish and enforce agency-wide brand standards, messaging frameworks, and visual identity guidelines - Utilize data analytics and media metrics to evaluate campaign effectiveness and inform decision-making - Develop and administer the division’s budget - Represent the agency in professional organizations, workshops, and collaborative initiatives - Serve as the agency’s spokesperson to media, elected officials, and community organizations - Develop internal communications strategies to improve employee engagement MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Education: - Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Public Administration, or a related field from an accredited college or university. Experience: - Five (5) to seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in marketing, communications, public affairs, or public information. - At least two (2) years of supervisory or management experience. Equivalency: - An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. Licenses: - Valid Maryland Class C Noncommercial driver's license (or equivalent) and eligibility to obtain a Baltimore City driver’s permit. Provisional licenses are not accepted. - Applicants must upload a copy of their valid driver's license with the application. PREFERRED SKILLS - Strategic planning and organizational communications - Media relations and crisis communications - Brand management - Digital marketing analytics - Project management - Budget management - Staff coaching and performance management - Political acumen and ability to work with elected officials - Strong judgment in high-profile or sensitive situations - Ability to analyze complex information and translate it into clear public messaging SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Non-Civil Service Position - Background Check: Eligible candidates must complete authorization for a Criminal Background Check and/or Fingerprint screening. - Probation: All selected persons must complete a 6-month mandatory probation. - Financial Disclosure: Required to complete a Financial Disclosure pursuant to City Ethics Law within 30 days of hire. - Driver's License: Must provide a copy of a valid driver's license with the application. SELECTION PROCESS - Application review based on minimum qualifications. - Standard City of Baltimore hiring procedures apply. HOW TO APPLY - Apply online via the City of Baltimore careers portal. - Job Requisition ID: R0018470 - Application Deadline: October 14, 2026 - Note: You must upload a copy of your valid driver's license with the application. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Baltimore City Recreation and Parks (BCRP) - Location: 3001 East Drive, Baltimore, MD - Type: Full-Time - Benefits: Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, optional life, AD&D, FSA plans, wellness programs, support groups, and workshops.

ABOUT THE ROLE The Public Information Officer (PIO) is responsible for developing and disseminating public information about the Police Department’s programs, services, and initiatives. Reporting to the Chief of Police, the PIO serves as the primary spokesperson for the department. This role works to provide a comprehensive media relations and public information program that educates the public, manages community awareness, and maintains a positive public image for the department. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Oversee media relations, serving as the primary point of contact for media outlets and responding to inquiries professionally - Research, develop, and disseminate information via digital and print media, press releases, photos, videos, and public service announcements - Create social media content and manage Police Department social media accounts - Represent the department at civic events and act as spokesperson when appropriate - Work in an on-call capacity to respond to emergencies and release information during evening and weekend hours - Lead the coordination of press conferences as deemed appropriate - Work collaboratively with the Communications team during emergency activations and day-to-day duties - Assist with planning and organizing community outreach programs and events - Assist the Communications Department in working toward ADA compliance MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Four-year degree from an accredited college or university in journalism, communications, public relations, social sciences, education, public administration, or a related field - Four years of professional experience as a public information officer or in journalism, public relations, research, grant writing, and project management, or an equivalent combination of training and experience - Experience in crisis communications or public safety information is highly considered - Must meet requirements in relation to the State (FCIC) and the National (NCIC) Criminal Information Centers - A comparable amount of training, education, and/or experience may be substituted for the above qualifications SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Possession of a valid Florida Driver's license or the ability to obtain one within six weeks of the date of hire - Subject to recall around the clock for emergency response operations, which may require irregular work hours and relocation to challenging conditions - Physical requirements include moderate work: exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, up to 30 pounds to move objects, and up to 10 pounds constantly, along with balancing, bending, lifting, speaking, standing, and walking HOW TO APPLY Apply through the official City of North Port, FL employment portal or human resources department. Ensure your application is submitted before any stated closing date. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: North Port, FL - Job Type: Full-Time - Department: Police Department - Class Title: Public Information Officer - Police - Class Code: 704-19 - Grade: 704 - Employer: City of North Port, FL

ABOUT THE ROLE The Director of Digital + New Media Communications will lead the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) digital, creative content, and new media strategy. Reporting to the Assistant Commissioner for Communications, this role oversees HPD digital presence and develops new ways to reach New Yorkers. It sits at the intersection of press, partnerships, creative strategy, and high-visibility public communications, shaping how HPD tells its story online and builds engagement around New York City housing future. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Develop and lead HPD digital and new media communications strategy across social media, digital campaigns, creator partnerships, and emerging platforms. - Supervise the Digital + Creative Communications Coordinator and Digital Strategist, including setting priorities, managing workflows, reviewing content, and supporting professional development. - Oversee HPD social media calendar, digital content planning, and digital coverage of press events, public announcements, community events, and major initiatives. - Develop creative messaging and platform-specific content strategies that translate HPD policies, programs, and accomplishments into clear and engaging public-facing content. - Identify and build relationships with creators, influencers, digital-first outlets, community platforms, and other nontraditional media partners. - Coordinate with the press office to integrate digital and new media into communications plans, press rollouts, and rapid-response moments. - Provide creative direction for multimedia content, digital toolkits, web content, and other creative assets. - Track digital trends, audience behavior, and campaign performance, using data to improve reach, engagement, and impact. - Support time-sensitive digital communications needs and special projects, as assigned. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college. - Two years of satisfactory, full-time experience related to the projects and policies to be studied in the particular position. - Preferred: 5+ years of experience in digital communications, social media, public affairs, marketing, or a related field (ideally in government, political campaign, advocacy, or digital media). - Preferred: Excellent organizational, project management, writing, editing, and storytelling skills. - Preferred: Experience providing creative direction for social media, digital campaigns, content calendars, and multimedia content. - Preferred: Experience developing relationships in the creator, influencer, and new media space, and using analytics to evaluate digital performance. - Preferred: Familiarity with New York City media, local government, or public-sector communications. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Ability to work outside business hours to support time-sensitive agency needs. - Demonstrated interest in city government or affordable housing. - New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment (exceptions may apply for City employees with 2 continuous years of service in specific surrounding counties). SELECTION PROCESS - No Exam Required. - Title classification: Non-Competitive-5. HOW TO APPLY - Apply through the official City of New York job posting portal using Job ID 794264. - Application deadline: Posted until 09/23/2026. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Agency: Housing Preservation & Development (HPD) - Department: Communications - Location: NYC-All Boros (Work location: 100 Gold Street) - Job Type: Full-Time - Experience Level: Manager - Number of Positions: 1 - Title Code: 54746 - Benefits: Eligible for federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness and state repayment assistance programs. - Equal Opportunity Employer: The City of New York is committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce free from discrimination and harassment based on any legally protected status or characteristic.

About the Role: Under general direction, the Deputy Director assists in overseeing all communications, media relations, and public information strategies related to the Mayor’s Office and City departments. The role supports the development and execution of strategic communications initiatives, directs daily operations, media response, digital communications, and public engagement, and serves as a key advisor to executive leadership. The Deputy Director supports the Director of Communications in managing public information officers and staff, and may serve as acting director in their absence. This is an unclassified at-will position. Key Responsibilities: - Manage internal and external media and public information messaging for the Mayor’s Office and City departments. - Coordinate strategic communications initiatives, media relations, digital communications, and public engagement efforts. - Oversee timelines, deliverables, and communications projects to ensure timely completion and quality control. - Draft, review, and edit press releases, talking points, speeches, social media content, and public statements. - Coordinate and support major events, press conferences, briefings, and public appearances involving executive leadership. - Monitor media coverage and assist in responding to media inquiries, emerging issues, and crisis communications. - Facilitate communication between departments, executive leadership, public information officers, and external stakeholders. - Participate in communications planning and develop long-term messaging strategies and calendars. - Provide guidance to communications staff regarding messaging consistency and standards. - Maintain relationships with media outlets, reporters, community organizations, and partner agencies. - Analyze communications effectiveness, prepare reports, and serve as acting Director of Communications as assigned. Minimum Qualifications: - Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in communications, journalism, political science, public administration, public relations, marketing, or a related field (preferred). - Six years of progressively responsible experience in communications, media relations, public information, public affairs, journalism, or a related field (preferred). - Two years of supervisory or lead experience (preferred). Special Requirements: - Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver’s License or the ability to obtain by date of hire. - Possession of a City Operator’s Permit (COP) within six months from date of hire. Selection Process: Not specified in the provided text. How to Apply: Not specified in the provided text. Employment Details: - Department: Mayor's Office / City of Albuquerque - Location: Albuquerque, NM - Job Type: Unclassified at-will position - Working Conditions: Office environment with exposure to computer screens and frequent interaction with media, elected officials, staff, and the public. Requires maintaining physical condition necessary for sitting or standing for prolonged periods, occasional lifting of light materials, and the ability to attend meetings and events outside normal business hours.