Public Relations Communications Coordinator

The Public Relations Communications Coordinator provides administrative and program support for Visit Santa Barbara’s communications, marketing and public relations efforts. Primary responsibilities include administrative coordination, database management and departmental support. This position assists with media monitoring, press trip coordination, media asset requests, reporting and general department operations. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects are essential to success in this role.

Community Engagement: This role is ideal for someone who lives in or has strong ties to the Santa Barbara community. The Public Relations Coordinator will build relationships with local businesses, tourism partners, media, and community organizations, so familiarity with the area and its culture is highly valued.

Work Location: This is an hybrid position based in Santa Barbara, California. Regular in-person attendance is required to support community events, media visits, and collaboration with the team.

What You'll Do:

• Monitor and track earned media coverage using Cision and other media monitoring platforms.
• Maintain media coverage archives, reports, and departmental performance metrics.
• Coordinate press trip logistics, media visits, and journalist support.
• Research, update, and distribute press materials, media lists, and outreach content.
• Collaborate with tourism partners to support media relations and destination promotion.
• Review and approve partner event listings while maintaining the online events calendar.
• Organize and maintain digital photo and video asset libraries.
• Respond to requests for marketing assets and destination information.
• Provide administrative support, including scheduling, data entry, CRM updates, and recordkeeping.
• Assist with Board meeting coordination, departmental projects, and other administrative duties as assigned.

What You'll Bring:

• 1–2 years of administrative or office experience.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and general PC applications.
• Strong organizational, administrative, and data entry skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to manage high volumes of email and written content.
• Excellent editing, proofreading, fact-checking, and research abilities.
• Familiarity with the Santa Barbara South Coast and local visitor attractions.
• Ability to work in the office at least three days per week, with additional in-person availability as needed.
• Valid California driver's license, reliable transportation, and auto insurance.
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends.
• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field.
• Experience with CRM/database systems, SharePoint, and media monitoring platforms such as Cision.

What We Offer:

• A competitive hourly wage of $25-$28, commensurate with your qualifications and experience.
• Flexible work options, including the opportunity to work remotely for up to two days per week.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including fully paid medical insurance.
• Generous paid sick and vacation leave, supporting your work-life balance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company contributions, helping you plan for the future.
• Monthly cell phone reimbursement up to $70, ensuring you stay connected.
• Opportunities to visit and experience our region's hospitality businesses, deepening your understanding of our destination

About Us:

Visit Santa Barbara is a nonprofit destination marketing organization (DMO) primarily funded by the South Coast Tourism Business Improvement District, along with grants and membership dues. Through tourism marketing, public relations, group sales and community partnerships, Visit Santa Barbara works to generate overnight visitation, increase business and tax revenue, and support jobs throughout the Santa Barbara South Coast.

Equal Employment Opportunity Policy:

Visit Santa Barbara ensures equal employment opportunity without discrimination or harassment on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, race, religious creed, color, national origin or ancestry, gender, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, age, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law, ordinance, or regulation.