Candidates who are interested in this opportunity should apply via our online application portal at www.ketteringoh.org/jobs and attach a resume and cover letter.

Submission Deadline: 5 p.m. EDT on Monday, August 10, 2026

The City of Kettering is currently seeking a Full-Time Communications and Engagement Manager, responsible for hands on development, supervision, and management of all mediums of communication with the community, including, but not limited to, traditional and digital communications, marketing, public affairs, and media relations. The Communications and Engagement Manager also oversees and administers the preparation of all print and electronic publications, City social media accounts, dissemination of appropriate information to residents and is responsible for overall City branding, promotions, and advancing a positive image of the City. This position oversees a small staff and coordinates the preparation and distribution of various media communiques regarding City services, projects and policies; coordinates and implements public information projects and  programs for the City;  directs various City multi-media programming and production activities; implements City policies related to the City’s communications, image and reputation; carries out special communication projects; and performs duties as a staff liaison to various boards, committees, groups and councils, on behalf of, and/or at the direction of the City Manager.

You will have the opportunity to:

Be a part of a dynamic leadership team;Develop a strategy to continuously share Kettering’s story; highlighting our great team, services and community;Implement and manage the City’s updated brand guidelines;Oversee the City’s social media accounts;Act as the managing editor of the quarterly magazine distributed citywide;Work with the team to originate, plan, research and compose news items, news articles, media releases, stories, bulletins, speeches, web pages, reports, letters, scripts and marketing materials; Serve as lead administrator for City website, responsible for oversight of content generation, updates and training;Serve as lead communicator to public crisis or emergency situations;Coordinate media coverage;  Identify and recommend public relations opportunities;Prepare and/or deliver speeches and presentations on City programs, services and policies;Assist with and produce the “Mayor’s State of the City” address.

The ideal candidate will have knowledge of current principles, practices, techniques and objectives of public information and media relations programs, marketing, social media, graphic design, public administration and project management; advanced knowledge and abilities in mass communication using various media, public speaking and written communications; some knowledge of the principles and practices of economics, statistics, group behavior and dynamics, sociology, and municipal administration. Must be articulate and concise in written and oral communications with excellent command of the English language and outstanding writing, editing skills, research and interview techniques. Familiarity with design and layout for marketing brochures, flyers and newsletters is required. Must have the skills necessary to develop and lead staff; excellent problem-solving skills; the ability to design and develop a variety of promotional and informational materials; the ability to plan, organize and implement special events; the ability to coordinate activities with other groups and agencies; the ability to oversee website development and understand municipal operations to formulate and implement comprehensive communication plans.

Must have a minimum of 3 years of experience in public administration, business management, journalism, mass media communications or public relations and a degree in journalism, communications, English, public relations, public administration, or a related field, or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the skills and abilities. Master’s degree a plus, in one of the mentioned specialties.