Communications Manager

Job Overview
Exempt, full‑time, 40 hours per week (Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.). This leadership position manages all communications for the Division of Water and Sewer Utilities, including publications, marketing campaigns, signage, print collateral, media relations, and press coverage. The Communication Manager represents the Division for routine, emergency, and emerging media inquiries and develops public information campaigns to raise awareness of water treatment, distribution, wastewater collection, recycled water production, source water protection, and conservation efforts.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Oversee all marketing, public relations, brand development, communications, and community outreach.

Manage Division Public Information Act requests and ensure timely, accurate responses.

Create layouts and graphic design materials for communication products, promotional items, and social media content.

Review, edit, and enhance communication materials prepared by staff to ensure accuracy, clarity, and consistency.

Represent the Division on routine, emergency, and emerging media inquiries and community concerns.

Develop and implement public information campaigns to educate division customers on key issues.

Assess outreach effectiveness and adapt communication strategies to support evolving program and organizational goals.

Generate publicity and maintain positive relationships with the press.

Manage the Division website and create a social media presence, providing public information on capital improvement projects.

Coordinate efforts with FCG Division of Communications and Video Services.

Collaborate with regional partners (MWCOG, Potomac River Sourcewater Protection Partnership, MAMWA, AWWA, and other utilities) on coordinated regional messaging.

Lead digital crisis communications, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination across traditional and digital platforms.

Visit treatment facilities, construction sites, or emergency repair sites as needed to engage with the press and capture photographs for communication needs.

Perform other related duties as required.

Qualifications and Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.

Minimum of 3 years of experience in communications, public affairs, or media relations.

Minimum of 1 year of supervising or managing staff.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in the water or wastewater field.

Experience with Adobe Creative Suite.

Experience using social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Position requires constant sitting and indoor work; protective equipment may be required when visiting certain sites.

Availability for varied working hours, including evening events and workshops.

Ability to travel to various sites using reliable transportation.

EEO Statement
Frederick County Government values diversity and inclusion and strives to ensure equal opportunities for its workforce, applicants, and community members.

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