Communications and Media Relations Director

Job Description:Lead the story of Calvert County.Calvert County Government is seeking a strategic, confident and creative communications leader to serve as its next Communications & Media Relations Director. In this high-impact role, you will guide the County’s voice, strengthen media relationships, and lead communications strategies that connect residents, employees, stakeholders and partners to the County’s mission.As the County’s principal communications officer and official spokesperson, you will oversee countywide strategic communications, media relations, public information, digital communications, emergency communications and community engagement.This position advises the County Administrator, Deputy County Administrator, Board of County Commissioners and executive leadership on messaging, public engagement, crisis communications and high-profile issues.The ideal candidate is an experienced communications professional who can lead with sound judgment, build trust with the public and media, and deliver timely, accurate and effective information across multiple platforms.In this role, you will:Serve as the County’s official spokesperson and principal media liaisonDevelop and implement strategic communications plans for County initiatives, executive priorities and public policy mattersAdvise executive leadership on public messaging, crisis communications and issues managementLead emergency public information efforts as the County’s Public Information Officer during emergency operationsOversee internal communications, digital communications, social media, video production, public information campaigns and community outreachBuild strong relationships with elected officials, media representatives, government agencies, community organizations and the publicSupervise and develop a talented communications teamPrepare reports, presentations, speeches, briefing materials and public-facing communicationsMinimum QualificationsBachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations or a closely related fieldFive years of progressively responsible professional communications, public information or media relations experience, preferably in local governmentValid driver’s licenseSubject to background investigationThis position is exempt and reports directly to the County Administrator. Work may include evening and weekend meetings, emergency call-back, crisis communications and high-profile public information activities requiring timely response.If you are ready to lead communications at the center of public service, community trust and local government impact, we invite you to apply.Apply today and help shape how Calvert County is seen, heard and experienced every day.Compensation Steps:Department of Communications and Media RelationsSalary: $135,000 - $160,000 annually, commensurate with experience.Full-time, contract position; 35-hour work week.Comprehensive benefits package, including:15 days of sick leave, 10 days of annual leave, and 5 personal days.13 paid holidays (14 in an election year).Defined Contribution Retirement Plan & 457(b) Deferred Compensation.Medical, dental, and vision coverage.Flexible Spending Accounts.Up to 80% tuition reimbursement for continuing education.Gym membership discounts.Hybrid work arrangements may be available, depending on organizational needs.Closing Date: September 11, 2026Please Note: This position will close at 11:59 p.m. on September 11, 2026. To be considered for the role, ensure that your application is submitted before the deadline. The position will be removed from the website as of 12:00 a.m. on September 12th.This is a contractual (non-merit) position. The employee will be required to sign an agreement outlining the terms and conditions of employment. Contractual positions are reviewed annually by the Board of County Commissioners to determine continued employment with the Calvert County Government.Please Note: A complete application is required to be considered for a position within Calvert County Government. All prior work experience, education, and other certifications should be entered into the application and supplemental questions should be answered completely. Attachments are not provided to hiring managers unless you are selected for an interview.Calvert County Government is committed to providing equal opportunity and reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. If you require an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, please contact Human Resources at View email address on click.appcast.io with as much notice as possible. #J-18808-Ljbffr Calvert County Maryland