Communications and Marketing ManagerPublic Information Officer

(Regular Exempt)

Starting Salary Range: $89091.99 - $111376.07 DOQ

Closing Date: January 23 2026

Shift/Workdays and Hours:Monday - Friday 8AM - 5PM

How to apply: Using the apply button on this page please complete the required online application upload a resume and a list of three professional references with full contact information. For general questions about the position contact Unique Hiram at or

Summary/Objective

Under the direction of the Technology & Communications Director/CIO the Communications & Marketing Manager / Public Information Officer (PIO) leads the Citys strategic communications public engagement and marketing efforts. This position supervises two marketing specialists and may oversee interns while also working hands-on to develop messaging and content manage media relations and coordinate cross-departmental and organization-wide campaigns. The role is responsible for advancing the Citys brand ensuring transparency and strengthening public trust through consistent accessible and engaging communication across platforms. The position also oversees the Citys website content strategy crisis communication planning and storytelling that highlights the impact of City services.

Essential Functions

Strategic Communications & Department Leadership

Leads the Citys communications and marketing strategy aligning messaging with organizational goals and community priorities. Supervises a team of marketing specialists and interns providing direction feedback and professional development. Coordinates with the City Managers Office department directors and other City leadership to ensure consistent timely and effective communication. Hires and trains staff members as needed.

Website Social Media & Digital Content Creation & Oversight
Manages the Citys website content strategy and ensures information is accurate accessible and user-friendly. Oversees and contributes to social media presence and digital storytelling including video photography and graphics. Coordinates with IT and departments to improve digital communication tools.

Media Relations & Crisis Communication

Serves as the Citys primary media contact and spokesperson. Develops press releases coordinates interviews and manages media inquiries. Leads crisis communication planning and response in coordination with the City Managers Office and emergency management personnel.

Public Engagement & Community Outreach
Plans and executes public engagement strategies to inform and involve residents in City initiatives. Facilitates community meetings surveys and digital engagement tools to gather input and build trust. Ensures inclusive outreach that reflects the diversity of the community.

Marketing Campaigns & Brand Management
Develops and implements marketing campaigns that promote City programs services and events. Oversees brand standards and visual identity across departments. Collaborates with internal teams to create compelling content that supports recruitment economic development and civic pride.

Internal Communication Training & Policy Support
Supports internal communication efforts including employee newsletters and organizational updates. Provides training and guidance to departments on communication best practices. Assists in developing policies and procedures related to public information branding and digital accessibility.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelors Degree in Communications Journalism Marketing Public Relations Public Administration Business or a related field.
• Five (5) to seven (7) years of experience in communications journalism marketing public relations or a related field.
• Expert knowledge of computer software including desktop publishing software Microsoft Office Suites Microsoft Office Suites Adobe Creative Suite web design/maintenance software and other related software programs.

Preferred Education and Experience

• Masters Degree in Communications Journalism Marketing Public Relations Public Administration Business or a related field.
• Seven to ten years of experience in communications journalism marketing public relations or a related field.
• FEMA Public Information Officer Course Certification.
• Supervisory experience.

Compensation & Benefits

• Boot Clothing and Vehicle Allowances if applicable.
• City issued Cell Phone if applicable.
• Retirement/Pension - City employees are required by statute to contribute to the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System (KPERS). Voluntary retirement contributions are offered with Nationwide Mission Square and Empower KPERS 457.
• Medical Dental Vision - The City offers an excellent benefits package that includes wellness medical vision dental and prescription drug benefits.
• Paid Holidays 10.5 paid holidays per year plus one additional floating holiday.
• Paid Vacation - 12 to 26 days per year based on years of service.
• Paid Sick Leave - 12 days per year.
• Paid Parental Leave - up to 6 weeks of paid leave.
• Education Reimbursement Professional Development. Certifications/Licensure - The City will reimburse up to $8000 per calendar year for tuition and fees. Professional Development funds are based on department budget. Certification/licensure may be reimbursed by the City.
• Other Benefits - Long-term disability employer paid group life insurance basic life insurance employee assistance program and an array of voluntary benefit options.

The City of Manhattan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and believe the best workplaces bring together employees with diverse skill sets backgrounds experiences and viewpoints to achieve common goals. Applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race color religion sex sexual orientation gender identity national origin veteran or disability status or any basis protected by law.