Director of Communications

Overview

Founded in 1919, KJ has always looked to the future. With a talented team of professionals and a culture of continuous improvement, we deliver exceptional engineering, environmental consulting, and construction management services, with a focus on innovation and sustainability. Using advanced analytics, technology, and tools, KJ improves designs, reduces risk, and finds better ways to deliver projects from planning through construction.

KJ is at the forefront of developing sustainable solutions for clients, including green infrastructure design, strategies to reduce energy use and environmental impacts, award-winning water reuse projects, and efficient construction management practices that ensure quality, safety, and on-time delivery. We are known for our dedication to industry-leading client service and tailored solutions.

• Direct and lead KJ’s communications strategy, ensuring consistent messaging across all internal and external audiences.
• Advise the CEO, Board, and senior leadership on strategic messaging, positioning, and communications opportunities.
• Own and evolve KJ’s brand, including voice, visual identity, and brand standards, to reflect a future-focused vision.
• Establish communications standards, editorial governance, and messaging frameworks across the organization.
• Direct visual and content strategy across platforms, including website, marketing materials, client deliverables, conferences, and social media.

• Lead executive and internal communications strategies that align leadership messaging with business priorities.
• Strengthen the employer brand through purpose-driven, transparent communication that fosters engagement and connection.
• Partner closely with leaders across KJ, challenging and refining thinking where needed to ensure clarity and alignment.
• Support KJ’s internal events (virtual and in-person) that inform, engage, and connect employees.
• Oversee editorial planning, content creation, and distribution of major internal communications.
• Leverage technology and data to modernize internal communications and enhance employee experience in a distributed work environment.

• Craft and activate compelling corporate narratives that clearly articulate KJ’s values through content, thought leadership, social media, events, and earned media.
• Position KJ as an employer of choice through innovative employer branding and recruitment-focused communications.
• Own KJ’s website, including content strategy, SEO, analytics, and ongoing updates.
• Lead social media strategy and content to support brand, talent, and business development goals.
• Develop regional communications strategies to support growth across geographies.
• Manage inbound communications, external inquiries, and targeted award submissions for staff and leadership.

• 15+ years of experience leading complex, integrated communications strategies with at least 3 years in the engineering consulting industry.
• Deep understanding of how PR, editorial, social, marketing, and thought leadership work together.
• Proven ability to develop, execute, and measure high-impact communications programs.
• Exceptional storytelling skills with a strong strategic lens.
• Executive-level presence and comfort partnering with C-suite and senior leaders.
• Demonstrated people leadership experience, with the ability to build and grow high-performing teams.
• Strong judgment, problem-solving ability, and collaborative decision-making style.
• Resilient, curious, and adaptable in a fast-evolving environment.
• Commitment to integrity, inclusion, and amplifying diverse perspectives.

Kennedy Jenks supports a healthy work-life balance and utilizes a hybrid work model to empower our people to grow, learn, and thrive. This role offers strong mentorship, technical development, and exposure to meaningful infrastructure projects that make a real impact.

The anticipated salary range for this position is $165,000 – $185,000, depending on education, experience, qualifications, licensure/certifications, and geographic location. This position is eligible for performance and incentive compensation.

Benefits

Summary:

Medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, 401(k), bonus opportunities, tuition reimbursement, professional registration support, competitive PTO and holiday plan, and additional benefits and programs.

Kennedy Jenks is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, marital status, disability, citizenship status, genetics, protected veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable law.