Communications Director

ABOUT THE ROLE The King County Department of Local Services seeks a Communications Director to lead strategic communication efforts. Reporting to the Chief of Staff, this role oversees public information, media relations, crisis communication, digital content, and brand management. The director manages a three-person team, advises leadership, and ensures messaging aligns with departmental goals while serving the unincorporated areas of King County. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Develop, implement, and evaluate comprehensive communication plans and strategies. - Advise senior leaders on high-profile issues and public information approaches. - Manage and mentor the communications team to ensure effective workflow and quality deliverables. - Write, design, and produce key documents including speeches, reports, news releases, and talking points. - Manage public-facing communications, media relations, and internal communications like newsletters and events. - Oversee digital and media management, including website updates, social media, and graphic design needs. - Organize and manage media and community events. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Five years of experience in a strategic communications role within government, PR, news, or non-profit. - Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, marketing, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience. - Experience advising senior leaders, working with print and broadcast news media, and using analytics to evaluate effectiveness. - Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including translating complex issues and public speaking. - Demonstrated experience managing, supervising, or leading a communications team. - Valid Washington State Driver's license. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must reside in Washington State within a reasonable distance to the King County worksite. - Must work in the office at least three days a week (hybrid position). - Position is designated as Non-Mission Critical for emergency purposes. - Desired qualifications include 8+ years of experience and knowledge of local government operations and political processes. SELECTION PROCESS - Initial screening of applications for clarity, completeness, and competitiveness. - First round: 45-minute in-person interviews during the week of 08/31/2026. - Second round: Phone interview followed by a 30-minute in-person interview during the week of 09/07/2026. HOW TO APPLY - Submit a full and complete King County application by 08/23/2026 at 11:59 PM Pacific Time. - Provide a resume and cover letter summarizing how you meet the qualifications. - Minimum qualifications and supplemental question answers must be clearly demonstrated in the application materials. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: King County, Department of Local Services - Location: King Street Center, 201 S Jackson St, Seattle, WA - Job Type: Career Service (Exec), Full Time (40 hours/week) - Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Exempt from overtime. May require work outside normal hours. - Union Status: Non-represented (Z3: KC Personnel Guidelines)