Communications Coordinator

Full Job Description

The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) leads Seattle’s citywide emergency management efforts, coordinating resources and responsibilities to prepare for, respond to, and recover from all types of emergencies.

We promote public awareness, build community preparedness, and assess potential hazards to help protect lives and property.

OEM is nationally recognized for its innovative approach to emergency management and its deep commitment to community outreach and engagement.

Join us in keeping Seattle safe, informed, and prepared!

We’re hiring a dynamic Communications Coordinator to lead OEM’s public messaging and outreach.

In this role, you’ll turn complex emergency information into clear, actionable messages that reach all communities.

You’ll manage media relations, digital content, and social campaigns while ensuring communications are inclusive, accessible, and equity-driven.

If you’re passionate about public safety and want to make a real impact in community, we encourage you to apply!

Requirements

As the Communications Coordinator, your work will include:

Leading Communication Strategy – Develop and implement OEM’s communication plan; set priorities and measure impact.

Media & Public Relations – Serve as media contact; pitch stories, write press releases, and organize press events. Handle public records requests.

Digital & Social Media – Manage social platforms and website content; design graphics and create campaigns.

Standards & Evaluation – Establish communication protocols; review content for consistency; track effectiveness.

Emergency Response Support – Assist during Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and Joint Information Center (JIC) activations; serve in 24/7 Staff Duty Officer rotation.

Major Projects – Drive campaigns and initiatives such as AlertSeattle, tsunami awareness, FIFA event communications, and more!

What Will Make You Successful:

• Strong writing and storytelling skills for diverse audiences.
• Ability to simplify technical emergency information into clear, accessible language.
• Skilled in media relations, social media management, and digital content creation.
• Project management experience and ability to meet tight deadlines.
• Adaptability and calm under pressure during emergencies.

What Will Make You Effective:

• Knowledge of emergency management principles, NIMS/ICS, and crisis communication is beneficial.
• Familiarity with JIC operations, continuity planning, and public records laws.
• PIO training and experience is a plus
• Multilingual skills are helpful
• Commitment to equity and accessibility (ADA compliance, multilingual outreach, trauma-informed messaging).
• Proficiency with communication tools and platforms (social media dashboards, CMS, Canva, Adobe Suite).

Please note: This job ad is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Qualifications

We’re seeking a Communications professional who thrives in dynamic environments and values equity and inclusion - someone who can translate complex emergency information into clear, accessible messages, collaborate across teams, and engage Seattle’s diverse communities.

We welcome transferable skills and lived experience. If you meet most qualifications and are passionate about public safety and community resilience, we encourage you to apply!

A successful applicant will demonstrate a blend of the following:

• Technical expertise in communication tools, platforms, and design.
• Strategic communication skills for media, social, and digital outreach.
• Emergency management awareness or experience to adapt messaging during crises.
• Commitment to equity and accessibility in all communication efforts.
• Ability to work evenings/weekends during emergencies and maintain composure under pressure
• Certifications such as ICS 100/200, IS 700/800 are helpful (or ability to complete within first year of employment).
• A valid Washington State driver’s license or ability to obtain one within 3 months of hire.

Additional Information

This full-time, overtime-exempt position is classified as a StrategicAdvisor2CL&PS-L17, and reports to the Community Engagement Program Manager.

It is covered by a collective bargaining agreement between the City of Seattle and PROTEC17- Strategic Advisor Unit. The full salary range for this classification is $56.57 - $84.88 per hour.

After a pay equity and budget analysis, the targeted range for this role is $133,485.84 - $136,931.04 annually ($63.93 - $65.58/hr)

Benefits: The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents.

More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at: https://www.seattle.gov/human-resources/benefits/employees-and-covered-family-members/most-employees-plans

Why work at the City of Seattle?

At the City of Seattle, public service is more than a job; it’s a chance to shape the future and make a meaningful difference in the lives of everyone who works, lives, or plays in our city.

With 12,000 employees across 40+ departments and 1,100 job titles, we are united by a common purpose: to create a Seattle that is vibrant and welcoming for all.

Whatever your role, you’ll help power a forward-looking city that leads by example - inclusive, innovative, equitable, and community-focused - while joining a diverse team committed to solving challenges and making a lasting impact together.

Join us in building a Seattle where everyone thrives!

APPLICATION PROCESS:

Here are some informational-only tips on applying and interviewing with us!

To be considered, you must include a resume, cover letter, and a writing sample with your application by the posted deadline at: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/seattle

• Cover Letter: Explain why you want to do this work and how you meet the qualifications
• Resume: Summarize your experience, talents, knowledge, and skills

Please note: The Office of Emergency Management does not use artificial intelligence (AI) or automated tools to screen or evaluate applications. Every application is reviewed by a member of our hiring team to ensure an equitable and human-centered process.

Who may apply: This position is open to all qualified applicants. The City of Seattle values diverse perspectives and life experiences.

Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

The City encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQ, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experience.

Hiring Timeline: We anticipate conducting interviews the week of March 16^th. The anticipated start date will be in April 2026.

Pre-Employment Requirements: If selected to advance in this hiring process, applicants will need to successfully pass a background check, which will be conducted in accordance with Seattle’s Fair Chance Employment Ordinance, SMC 14.17.

Applicants will be given a chance to explain or correct background information and provide verifiable information of good conduct and rehabilitation.

Applicants will also be required to provide a complete 5-Year driving record from the Department of Licensing.

Accommodations and Questions: We strive to make our hiring process accessible to all.

Individuals with disabilities will be provided reasonable accommodations to participate in the job application or interview process, perform essential job functions, and receive other benefits and privileges of employment.

Please contact Nicolette.Hornbeck@seattle.gov with questions or to request accommodations.