Communications Coordinator

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!

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 Alert Seattle, tsunami awareness, FIFA event communications, and more!

• 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.

• 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.

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 IC 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.

This full-time, overtime-exempt position is classified as a Strategic

Advisor2CL&PS-L17, and reports to the Community Engagement Program Manager.…