Communications and Public Engagement Manager I​/II

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE

The ideal candidate has strong verbal and written communication skills and a creative approach to developing effective marketing campaigns. They are highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple projects while ensuring consistency across all materials. They build positive relationships with team members, stakeholders, and local businesses, and apply strategic thinking to support departmental goals. Proactivity, sound judgment, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively are essential.

Experience in event management, especially coordinating with local businesses, is a plus. Adaptability, proficiency with marketing tools and social media platforms, and a strong customer service mindset are key to success in this role.

To learn more about the Department of Parks and Recreation,

Final date to receive applications: 08/25/2026

Oral Examination: Week of August 31, 2026

The Communications and Public Engagement Manager (Manager I/II) oversees all department communications, community outreach, special events, and recreation programs for Stanislaus County Parks and Recreation. Reporting to the Department Head, this role will develop and implement engagement strategies to promote Parks and Recreation facilities and programs, manage promotional materials, signage and branding, prepare annual reports, serve as the department’s Public Information Officer (PIO), write press releases and conduct or assist with press interviews.

Additionally, this role will be responsible for developing and coordinating summer recreation programs and annual community park events, including engaging local businesses interested in hosting events at our parks, managing event operations, and coordinating efforts between County partner agencies and volunteers to ensure successful events.

• Serve as the Department's Public Information Officer (PIO), overseeing media relations; developing, reviewing, and approving public communications; coordinating media interviews; advising and preparing the Director and executive leadership for media engagements; serving as the Department spokesperson as appropriate; and ensuring consistent, accurate, and timely communication with the public and media;
• Engage and negotiate with promoters, sponsors, vendors, donors, volunteers, and partners to support events, programs, and Department initiatives within County parks;
• Direct and oversee community, special, and large-scale events from planning through execution, including reviewing and approving event applications, negotiating contracts, coordinating with park managers, and ensuring compliance with all County requirements, permitting, and California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA);
• Develop, implement, and oversee strategic communications and event plans to market the Parks and Recreation Department and increase public awareness of parks, programs, and opportunities;
• Develop, approve, and oversee event operations plans, including logistics, staffing, emergency response, risk management, and interagency coordination;
• Manage and protect the Department’s brand by establishing communication standards, training staff, and ensuring consistent messaging across all Department correspondence, marketing materials, and digital platforms;
• Manage the Department’s website, social media, marketing, and advertising efforts, including researching and implementing strategies to enhance outreach, branding, and community engagement;
• Supervise, assign, and evaluate the work of employees, contractors, and volunteers engaged in communications, events, and recreation programming; provide training, leadership, and professional development;
• Oversee recreation programming in Community Parks and the Rec Van program in partnership with the Police Activities League (PAL), ensuring alignment with Department goals and effective coordination;
• Develop, manage, and monitor budgets for communications, events, and programs, including forecasting, expense tracking, revenue generation, sponsor ships, and grants;
• Develop scopes of work and…