Communications Director

ABOUT THE ROLE The King County Department of Local Services is seeking a Communications Director to lead strategic communication efforts, ensuring clear and timely information is shared with residents, stakeholders, and media. Reporting to the Chief of Staff, this role oversees public information, media relations, crisis communication, digital content, and brand management. The director manages a team of three communication professionals, advises leadership, and translates complex governmental information into accessible messaging for the public. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Develop, implement, and evaluate comprehensive communication plans and strategies. - Advise senior leadership on high-profile issues and recommended communication approaches. - Manage and mentor the communications team to ensure effective workflow and quality deliverables. - Write, design, and produce key documents including speeches, op-eds, news releases, and briefing materials. - Manage public-facing communications, media relations, and responses to public inquiries. - Facilitate internal communications such as staff alerts, newsletters, and engagement events. - Oversee digital and media management, including website updates and social media channels. - Ensure graphic design needs are met and organize media and community events. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. Five years of experience in a strategic communications role within a government agency, public relations firm, news, or non-profit organization. 2. Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, marketing, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 3. Experience advising senior leaders, developing strategic communications, and working with print and broadcast news media. 4. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write compelling narratives and translate complex issues. 5. Demonstrated experience managing, supervising, or leading a communications team. 6. A valid Washington State Driver's license. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Employees must reside in Washington State and within a reasonable distance to their King County worksite. - Must maintain a home workspace with a reliable internet connection for hybrid telecommuting. - Special duty opportunities are only open to current King County career service employees who have completed initial probation and have supervisor approval. SELECTION PROCESS Applications are screened for clarity, completeness, and competitiveness. Candidates passing the initial screening will be invited to a 45-minute in-person interview during the week of 08/31/2026. Candidates selected to move forward will participate in a 30-minute in-person interview during the week of 09/07/2026. HOW TO APPLY Submit a full and complete King County application. You may also provide a resume and cover letter summarizing how you meet the qualifications for the position. For questions or accommodations, contact Sonali Naidu at sonaidu@kingcounty.gov or 206-684-2454. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Full Time, Career Service (Exec) position, 40 hours per week. - Exempt from the Fair Labor Standards Act and not eligible for overtime pay. - Hybrid position requiring at least three days a week in the office. - Standard hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with occasional evening or weekend work required. - Designated as Non-Mission Critical for emergency purposes. - Non-represented position (no union membership). - King County is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.