International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Veterans

Strategic Communications and Public Relations Director

El Paso, TX (On-site)

El Paso County is pleased to welcome an experienced, collaborative communications professional to help amplify County initiatives and connect our community through strategic messaging, marketing and outreach. Position Overview And Qualifications The Communications Director serves as a key leader in shaping the County’s voice and strengthening connections between departments, leadership, and the community. This role is responsible for setting the strategic direction of communications initiatives, managing media relations, overseeing branding and outreach efforts, and ensuring timely, accurate messaging across platforms. They hold a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in broadcast journalism, public relations, communications, or a related field, along with eight (8) years of progressively responsible professional experience in mass communication, strategic communication, public relations, advertising, or marketing, including five (5) years of demonstrated executive-level supervisory experience; Or any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Certificates and Licenses: Must have or obtain by date of hire a driver's license applicable to job responsibilities, with a driving record acceptable to El Paso County. Possess and maintain recognized current certification or complete specialized training to ensure up-to-date knowledge of job related skills and technology. About El Paso County In 1598, Spanish conquistadors followed the Rio Grande and uncovered what many still consider a hidden gem of the Southwest. More than four centuries later, El Paso continues to shine—an extraordinary city where cultures converge, history lives boldly, and the future is wide open. Blending Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and American cowboy traditions, El Paso is a place unlike anywhere else in the United States. It is the largest city on the U.S.–Mexico border, the sixth-largest city in Texas, and proudly known as the Veterans Capital of the USA. Recognized as a 2020 All-America City, ranked among the Safest Large Cities in the nation, and consistently listed as one of the best places to live, El Paso offers an unmatched quality of life. Add to that one of the lowest costs of living in the country, and it’s easy to see why people come here—and stay! Duties Work with the Deputy Chief Administrator, executive staff and Commissioners’ Court to develop, review and recommend county communications and media initiatives, including those of a sensitive and confidential nature; Develops and recommends solutions for complex problems and highly sensitive issues that cross functional and administrative boundaries or where there may be significant coordination requirements that impact the future of the department; Manages the County’s internal communications program by developing strategies, tools, and processes that ensure timely, accurate, and effective communication with employees, support organizational alignment, and improve information flow across departments; Provides leadership and strategic direction for County communications by developing and implementing short- and long-range communications plans aligned with the County Strategic Plan; Leads the County’s public information and media relations program, serving as the primary media contact and coordinating press communications, access, and engagements during routine operations and emergencies; Builds and maintains strategic partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, serving as a liaison between the Commissioners Court, community organizations, and County leadership to advance public awareness and outreach; Competitive Benefits At El Paso County, we offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, financial well-being, and work-life balance. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement with employer contribution; paid holidays; vacation and sick leave; wellness resources; and professional development opportunities.