Communications Director

Department: Administration
Division: Communications
Exempt/Non-Exempt: Exempt
Union/Management: Management
Full-Time/Part-Time/Seasonal: Full-Time 
Workweek: 40 hrs/week
Pay: $130,000 - $140,000 based on qualifications and experience. Competitive Jersey City retirement and health benefits package available, including pension, dental, medical, prescription, FSA (flexible spending account), life insurance, and more.

The City of Jersey City is seeking a highly skilled, experienced, and dynamic Communications Director to lead the City's internal and external communications strategy. The Director will report directly to the Business Administrator and will act as the primary liaison between the Mayor, the media, the public, and City departments. A core responsibility of this role is the ability to expertly manage crisis communications and maintain a clear, consistent, and positive narrative for the City and the Mayor’s agenda.Job Duties:

• Develop and execute a comprehensive communications plan that aligns with the Mayor's priorities, vision, and policy objectives.
• Serve as the Mayor's spokesperson; manage all media inquiries, press conferences, and interviews; cultivate strong relationships with local, state, and national journalists.
• Lead the City's communication response during emergencies, critical events, and sensitive issues, ensuring timely, accurate, and empathetic messaging across all platforms.
• Oversee the drafting and distribution of press releases, speeches, talking points, official statements, opinion editorials, and internal memos.
• Manage and supervise the Mayor's and Digital Director, including the website and social media channels, to engage residents and disseminate key information.
• Coordinate public announcements, town halls, and community engagement events to promote transparency and accountability.
• Supervise and mentor the communications staff, setting clear objectives and maintaining high standards for all communications products.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

*Please note, this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.Required Education: Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Political Science, or a related field. A Master's degree is preferred.

Required Experience:A minimum of 5-7 years of progressively responsible experience in public relations, media relations, or strategic communications, preferably in a governmental, political, or non-profit setting.

Essential Skills: 

• Demonstrated, hands-on experience developing and executing crisis communication plans with 4-6 years of direct crisis management experience under high-pressure, time-sensitive  circumstances.
• Deep understanding of the political landscape, public policy, and the unique challenges of municipal government.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, strong organizational abilities, and the capacity to work irregular hours as needed.

This is a Civil Service Job and you must eventually pass and qualify for the applicable Civil Service title.

Please note that this role is subject to the residency requirements set forth by NJ First Act.Application Requirments:

• Resume and a compelling Cover Letter detailing relevant experience.
• A list of three (2) professional references (name, title, organization, phone number, and email). References will not be contacted without prior notification.
• Two (2) relevant writing samples. One sample must demonstrate your ability to craft a public statement or plan related to a crisis or sensitive public issue. Examples include a crisis communication plan, a high-stakes press release, or talking points for a difficult situation.