Council Communications Specialist (Public Information Specialist)
About the role
The position is in office Monday through Friday and remote on Thursday and Friday. The Pierce County Council is the legislative and policy-making body of Pierce County government. Serving a population of more than 925,000 residents, the Council reviews and acts on hundreds of ordinances and resolutions each year, providing oversight and direction on a wide range of issues affecting the County.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement communications plans, educational materials, and outreach initiatives that advance Council priorities while maintaining a nonpartisan, public-serving perspective.
- Draft, edit, and produce written and multimedia content including press releases, proclamations, talking points, newsletters, social media content, and public facing reports.
- Manage and maintain the Council's social media platforms, website content, and digital presence, monitoring for accuracy, timeliness, and alignment with Council policy direction.
- Utilize industry-standard software (such as Adobe Creative Suite) to produce visual materials that communicate complex policy issues clearly to diverse public audiences.
- Build and sustain effective working relationships with elected officials, Council staff, department heads, media representatives, and community stakeholders — navigating the sensitivities inherent in a political office environment with professionalism and discretion.
- Monitor media coverage and public sentiment relevant to Council activities; prepare summaries and briefings for communications leadership and elected officials as needed.
- Occasionally administer/facilitate virtual Council and Committee meetings via Zoom, or other platforms.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in communications, English, marketing, advertising, public relations, graphic design, business administration, or other closely related field plus at least two years’ experience directly related to the duties of the position.
- Experience working in a public agency with elected officials is preferred.
Qualifications
Additional education or experience, which clearly indicates the ability to perform the essential functions of this position, may substitute on a year-for-year basis.
Skills
We are looking for an experienced communications professional with exceptional writing, graphic design, and digital storytelling skills. You build trusted relationships, manage competing priorities with confidence, and translate complex legislative issues into clear, engaging communications for diverse audiences. You are collaborative, adaptable, and comfortable supporting elected officials in a fast-paced, highly visible, nonpartisan environment.
Benefits
Working in a fast-paced, highly visible environment, the Council regularly engages with the public and receives briefings from executive departments and other elected officials to ensure transparency, accountability, and informed decision-making. Through close collaboration with County leadership, partner jurisdictions, and the community, the Council plays a central role in shaping the future of Pierce County.
Pay
A career with Pierce County means joining an organization committed to your growth and success. Through our robust online learning and variety of training opportunities, Pierce County ensures continuous professional development throughout your journey. This dedication extends beyond individual advancement, it reflects a broader mission to foster welcoming communities, maintain safe infrastructure, and promote equitable access to opportunities.
Schedule
This position is in office Monday through Friday and remote on Thursday and Friday.