Communications Program Specialist

Salary : $87,107.49 - $ Annually
Location : Kirkland, WA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number:
Location: City Manager's Office
Opening Date: 02/24/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit: AFSCME

Job Summary

• Supports the implementation of the City's communications program, including development of print publications, web content, social media, cable TV programming, and news media.
• Maintains, recommends improvements, and implements changes to the City Constituent Customer Service Portal. Coordinates functions with software vendor and trains City staff on the effective use of the software.
• Responds to customer inquiries regarding City and City programs: screens and prioritizes inquiries, ensuring that questions are responded to by distributing requests to the appropriate City staff or by providing service directly.
• Assists in Council communications including preparation of staff memos, Council presentations and public speaking points.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assists in researching, writing, publishing, and distributing media releases, City newsletter articles, fact sheets, and public education materials related to City programs and events.
• Drafts and designs brochures, flyers, invitations, and other documents to promote the City and inform the public.
• Conducts story research, script writing, and on-camera stand-up appearances for City produced videos and City cable news programming.
• Writes, edits, proofreads, and uploads content for the City's website including integration of text, images and video.
• Posts and monitors City social media sites and monitors external sites related to City interests.
• Provides planning and logistical support for events such as ribbon cuttings, dedications, and public appearances of City officials and community outreach events.
• Conducts special research projects as needed.

Peripheral Duties

• Serves as backup Public Information Officer during emergencies and disasters working within the City's Emergency Operations Plan.

Why Work for Kirkland?

Ranked as one of the most livable cities in America, Kirkland is an attractive and inviting place to live, work, and visit. We have big city vision while maintaining a small-town, community feel. If you are a candidate with the desire to join an organization looking to innovate into the future, the City of Kirkland is the place for you!
If you ask our employees why they love where they work, they'll tell you about the great people, work environment, supportive management and City Council, and fearless innovation.

We also invest in you!

Competitive Wages:
We strive to maintain competitive compensation packages and work to provide wages that meet the knowledge, skills, and abilities of our employees.

Awesome Benefits:
The City offers benefits that are unmatched by most other employers. Please click on the benefits tab above to view more details.

Childcare Programs:
To help address the challenge of finding reliable childcare, the City of Kirkland has reserved spots for City employees at local and regional service providers, available at a discount. New employees gain access to Kirkland's reserved spots as soon as they start employment. !

Training and Career Development:
The City of Kirkland believes in developing its employees. You will have access to training opportunities designed for career development and advancement based on your position, skills, and interests.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of

• Microsoft Office software and illustration and layout programs such as InDesign.
• Media outlets and distribution protocols and AP style writing.
• General knowledge of municipal services and functions.

Skilled in

• Excellent written communication and ability to quickly produce newsletters, flyers, brochures, and other documents that are attractive and informative for the target audience.
• The use of web-based communication and social media for communicating with the public.
• Desktop publishing programs and techniques.
• Video production, script writing and producing content.
• Organization and listening skills.

Ability to

• Conduct research using web-based resources and City documents and summarize results.
• Develop and maintain strong working…