EL PASO COUNTY, COLORADO
Department of Human Services
Communications & Public Relations Manager
EL PASO COUNTY
Nestled below Pikes Peak is El Paso County - America's destination. El Paso County is home to eight municipalities, each contributing to the community's geographic, economic, and social diversity. With mountains to the west, forest to the north, and plains to the east and south, you can hike, bike, kayak, and explore without ever leaving the county.
With a population of over 750,000, El Paso County offers citizens a thriving downtown, family-friendly suburbs, and vast rural expanses. Residents enjoy historic charm, worldclass restaurants and accommodations, a growing cultural scene, and plenty of shopping options.
El Paso County is essential to our nation. We are home to the US Space Command and five military installations from the prestigious US Air Force Academy to Fort Carson. Each supports a crucial strategic mission for our nation's defense. Nearly 100,000 Veterans also call El Paso County home.
Within it all is the El Paso County government. Our county government is the gold standard of efficiency, transparency, and respect for its residents. Various elected officials and senior county leadership lead the county. They collaborate with regional partners to solve complex problems and protect our most vulnerable.
PURPOSE
ABOUT THE ROLE
Department of Human Services
Communications & Public Relations Manager
The Communications and Public Relations Manager is responsible for the management of proactive communications, public and community relations, and event planning for the Department of Human Services (DHS). This role develops, plans, and initiates all aspects of communications and is responsible for the development, writing, and layout of websites, social media, public communication pieces, public mailings, internal communication, and news releases. Additionally, this position utilizes independent judgment and analytical skills in compiling and reporting communication data analytics.
QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilites
Working knowledge of local, state, government, and legislative processes.
Working knowledge of computer systems and desktop publishing software to include electronic media. Proficiency with Adobe design products including Photoshop, Dreamweaver, InDesign, Fireworks, and Illustrator.
Must possess exceptional writing and interpersonal communication skills
Must possess strong analytical skills to interpret and evaluate data and reports
Ability to efficiently plan, schedule, and organize. Ability to assess situations and make prudent and appropriate decisions.
Ability to work with frequent interruptions; ability to prioritize tasks and to move between projects on short notice.
Ability to apply conflict resolution and problem-solving skills.
Ability to monitor communication tools, make quick decisions and use sound judgment when interacting with others
Ability to communicate, motivate, and organize projects among a broad spectrum of personnel, frequently under deadline pressure
Ability to use standard photography and equipment.
Ability to communicate and work effectively with co-workers, clients, vendors, other agencies, and the public. Ability to provide excellent customer service.
Ability to develop and manage budgets.
Maintain regular and punctual attendance
IDEAL CANDIDATE
The El Paso County Department of Human Services is seeking a highly collaborative, detail-oriented professional who:
Manages media relations and excels in fostering connections with the state, media professionals, internal teams, and the community at large.
Exhibits professionalism, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence in public service communication.
Synthesizes large volumes of information into accessible content for public understanding
Communicates the DHS story effectively, sharing its values, objectives, and operations with the public while balancing compliance, representation, and transparency.
Possesses exceptional writing abilities to craft thoughtful, clear, and strategic communications
Takes initiative without waiting for direction and is a self-starter with a proactive approach.
Persuades other by using compelling arguments to gain their support.
Anticipates and addresses difficult and complex issues with critical thought, emotional intelligence, and sensitivity to perception.
COMPENSATION
Hiring Range: $95,000 - $104,000
Vacation Leave: 120 hours per year, accumulated bi-weekly
Personal Holiday Leave: 24 hours, renews annually
Holidays: 11 paid holidays each year
Sick Leave: 96 hours per year, accumulated bi-weekly
Retirement: El Paso County offers a competitive government retirement plan. More details are available in the El Paso County Retirement Master Document.
