Manager Of Water Public Relations Job at City of Aurora in Aurora

Manager of Water Public Relations — City of Aurora, Colorado

Location: Aurora, Colorado 80016-2946

Salary: $112,403 - $140,503 annually (commensurate with experience)

Posting will close 21 November 2025.

OVERVIEW OF POSITION / DEPARTMENT

Plans and manages a comprehensive public relations program including community and media relations, crisis communication, risk communication and capital projects communication under the direction of the Deputy Director of Internal & External Relations.

Aurora Water is responsible for enhancing and protecting the quality of life for Aurora citizens by providing quality water, sewer, and stormwater services in a manner that balances social, environmental, and economic needs.

PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage Aurora Water’s public communication programs to build goodwill in the community, establish credibility with consumers, lawmakers, regulators, and the media.
• Recommend legislative and communication strategies for both internal and external agencies.
• Represent the department and serve as a resource for committees, government bodies, stakeholder groups, and the various customer groups served by the utility.
• Develop programs to educate and increase public awareness of utility projects and operations.
• Manage the department’s media and public relations program.
• Coordinate and direct activities of professional consultants engaged in communications‑related activities.
• Develop and administer the department’s comprehensive communications plan.
• Develop policies and publicity programs in coordination with other departments and community groups.
• Make recommendations regarding selection, hiring, training, evaluation, and disciplining of assigned employees.
• Supervise and lead direct reports and oversee employee performance.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS & WORKING CONDITIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, or a related field.
• At least 5 years progressively responsible experience in public relations.
• At least 3 years supervisory/managerial experience.
• Comprehensive knowledge of public relations planning principles and activities of local governments.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of staff, citizens, and elected officials.
• Strong interpersonal, decision‑making, analytical, and negotiating skills.
• Excellent oral and written presentation skills.
• Colorado Driver’s License with a good driving record.
• Experience with budgeting and preparing special reports or projects.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Primarily sedentary office work; occasional walking, standing, and lifting up to 10 pounds.
• Must operate a motor vehicle, standard office equipment, and personal equipment such as a vehicle or cell phone.

EEO STATEMENT

The City of Aurora is an equal opportunity employer. We are required by state and federal agencies to keep certain statistical records on applicants. It will not be used in any way to discriminate against you because of your sex, race, age, sexual orientation, creed, national origin, disability or military status, gender identity, unless related to a bona fide occupational qualification as defined by the Colorado Civil Rights Commission and the Equal Opportunity Commission.

Despite the changes in Colorado law, the City of Aurora maintains a drug‑free workplace. A positive marijuana test is grounds for disqualification and ineligibility for employment for one year or termination upon hire.

Applicants selected for safety‑sensitive positions are required to complete and pass a drug screening as a condition of employment.