City of Ellsworth - Communications Director

Start Date: July 01, 2025 | End Date: September 01, 2025
County: Hancock County
Job Type: Other
More Information: Click here

Job Title: Communications Director

Department: Economic and Community Development
Location: Ellsworth City Hall | Hybrid Eligible
Reports To: Economic Development Director
Supervises: Contractors and vendors and potential interns
Employment Type: Full-time, Exempt

Position Summary

The City of Ellsworth is seeking a dynamic, creative, and tech-savvy Communications Director to lead our citywide communications strategy during a time of historic growth and transformation. As one of Maine’s fastest-growing cities (37% population growth since 2000, 27% higher than the state of Maine) and a regional hub for commerce, recreation, and year-round living, Ellsworth is investing heavily in infrastructure, placemaking, and organizational modernization — and we need a storyteller and strategist to help bring that vision to life.

This position will be responsible for shaping and delivering a bold, clear, and engaging narrative about where Ellsworth is headed and how it is staying anchored in its incredible past. The Communications Director is the city’s lead brand champion and digital architect — managing media relations, marketing campaigns, public outreach, internal communications, and our digital platforms.

From the launch of a new city website and brand identity to the rollout of high-impact economic development initiatives like the Village Partnership and Thriving Communities programs which will help transform our Downtown and Maine Street corridors, this role is more than just managing messages — it’s about shaping the future of how Ellsworth shows up for its residents, visitors, and partners.

Key Responsibilities

Public Affairs & Media Strategy

• Serve as the City’s Public Information Officer (PIO), developing and managing proactive media relations strategies.
• Draft press releases, talking points, and statements; coordinate interviews and manage media communications for department heads.
• Cultivate strong relationships with local, regional, and statewide media outlets.

Digital Communications & Engagement

• Lead the redesign of the City’s website to improve user experience, accessibility, and digital service delivery.
• Oversee citywide social media strategy and manage content across multiple platforms.
• Design and execute campaigns to promote city services, projects, and civic engagement opportunities.
• Launch and manage a new online community calendar and city newsletter.
• Manage a monthly editorial submission to the Ellsworth American to update the community on city strategy, policies, and projects.
• Oversee the quarterly all-staff meeting.

Strategic Branding & Storytelling

• Build and maintain consistent city branding across departments, platforms, and materials.
• Develop storytelling strategies to highlight the city’s investments in infrastructure, housing, recreation, and business climate improvements.

Internal Communications & Organizational Culture

• Design internal communications systems to better connect city departments and staff.
• Coordinate with the Human Resources Department to develop and distribute internal newsletters, leadership updates, and staff engagement tools.
• Support strategic planning efforts by clearly communicating citywide priorities to staff, council, and residents.

Design & Content Production

• Create and manage the production of print, digital, and video content for public consumption.
• Ensure all city-facing materials adhere to accessibility consistent brand guideline standards.
• Oversee vendors and contractors related to communications, design, and translation services.

Public Records & Transparency

• Serve as the lead point of contact for FOAA (Freedom of Access Act) requests in coordination with departments.
• Ensure compliance with Maine’s public records laws and uphold the city’s commitment to transparency.

Collaboration with Economic Development

• Partner with the Economic Development Director to develop and implement strategic communications that promote business attraction, retention, and investment in the community.
• Assist in the creation of marketing materials, presentation, and digital content that highlight economic assets and development opportunities.
• Support outreach efforts to local businesses, regional partners, and potential investors by crafting clear, compelling messaging across various platforms.
• Contribute to the planning and promotion of events, public announcements, and campaigns related to economic growth and development.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Administration, Marketing, or a related field (equivalent experience considered).
• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in public relations, digital strategy, media, or public affairs; experience in municipal or nonprofit sectors strongly preferred.
• Experience managing digital tools (CMS, email marketing, social media platforms) and strong familiarity with accessibility and user-centered design principles.

Core Skills & Competencies

• Outstanding written, verbal, and visual communication skills across diverse audiences.
• Strategic thinker with a deep understanding of public sector storytelling and community engagement.
• Ability to manage multiple projects with tight deadlines in a dynamic, high-growth environment.
• Skilled collaborator with the ability to work across departments, build trust, and drive results.
• Experience with data-informed communications strategies and performance tracking.
• Graphic design, video production, and/or photography skills are a plus.

Work Environment

• This is a senior-level, high-visibility role with regular interaction with the City Manager, Deputy City Manager, and department heads.
• Hybrid schedule available; however, some on-site work is required.
• Evening meetings, public events, and occasional weekend hours expected.
• Office and field work may include attendance at community events, trail openings, ribbon cuttings, and more.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary Range: $65,000–$85,000 annually, based on experience.
• Benefits: 90% employer-paid health insurance, MePERS retirement system, up to 7 weeks of paid leave, paid holidays, and professional development support.
• Opportunities for advancement as the City expands its communications and engagement capacity.

About Ellsworth

Ellsworth is the beating heart of Maine’s Downeast region. With a population that has grown by over 37% since 2000 and over $100 million in upcoming public investment, we are a small city doing big things. From scenic trails and public waterfronts to vibrant downtown businesses and community festivals, Ellsworth blends the charm of a small town with the vision and vitality of a growing city. This is a rare opportunity to help shape a place that’s already shaping Maine’s future.

How to Apply

Send a cover letter, résumé, and 3 professional references to Kerri Taylor, Human Resources Manager, at [email protected]. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis, with priority given to submissions received by July 13th, 2025.

The City of Ellsworth is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes candidates from all backgrounds to apply.