Senior Communications Manager

ABOUT THE ROLE The Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice (MOCJ) is seeking a versatile, hands-on Senior Communications Manager reporting to the Chief of Public Affairs. This role requires a self-starter with excellent writing and storytelling skills to translate complex criminal justice issues into engaging, accessible content. The ideal candidate will seamlessly handle content creation, media relations, and web development, knowing when to leverage AI and when a human touch is essential. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Develop and manage social media content and strategy, including short-form video production, editing, photography, and copywriting. - Manage MOCJ’s public-facing website, ensuring content is clear, accessible, and user-friendly. - Support media relations and rapid-response communications, including drafting press releases, responding to inquiries, and building reporter relationships. - Collaborate with program and policy teams to tell compelling stories about MOCJ’s work using community perspectives, data, and research. - Monitor news and social media for emerging issues, opportunities, and risks. - Draft speeches, talking points, one-pagers, briefing materials, and PowerPoint presentations for senior leadership at MOCJ and City Hall. - Support internal communications, including the weekly employee newsletter. - Ensure all communications are accurate, consistent, and aligned with MOCJ and City Hall priorities. - Represent the agency at community meetings, press conferences, and public events, occasionally outside core office hours. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Candidates must meet at least one of the following: 1. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university. 2. An associate degree from an accredited college or university plus two (2) years of experience with administrative, analytic, coordinative, supervisory, or liaison responsibilities. 3. A four-year high school diploma (or approved equivalent) plus four (4) years of experience as described in item 2. 4. A satisfactory combination of education and/or experience equivalent to the above. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Preferred: Experience with social media strategy, content creation (photography, videography, video editing), website development, and media relations. - Preferred: At least five years of experience in government, public policy, advocacy, nonprofit communications, or journalism. Familiarity with NYC’s criminal justice system is a plus. - Residency: New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment. Certain City employees with 2 continuous years of service may be eligible to reside in specific surrounding counties (Nassau, Suffolk, Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, or Orange). SELECTION PROCESS No Exam Required. HOW TO APPLY - Apply online through the official City of New York job portal. - Include a short, out-of-the-box cover letter demonstrating why you are the right choice for the role. - Include 2-3 examples of communications work you created (e.g., social media content, campaigns, speeches, websites, or PowerPoint presentations). Links or attachments are welcome; a formal portfolio is not required. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Department: Administrative Staff, Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice - Location: MANHATTAN (1 Centre St., N.Y.) - Job Type: Full-Time - Job Level: M1 (Manager) - Number of Positions: 1 - Job ID: 796520 - Posted Date: 08/30/2026 - Posted Until: 10/29/2026 - Benefits: Eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness and state repayment assistance programs. - Equal Opportunity: The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce free from discrimination and harassment.