Manager, Communications

The Manager, Communications reports to the Director, Communications and leads the planning and execution of external communications that support the San Mateo County Transit District (District), SamTrans bus service, the Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board (Caltrain), the San Mateo County Transportation Authority (SMCTA) and San Mateo County Express Lanes Joint Powers Authority (SMCELJPA). This role manages high-impact messaging across multiple platforms, supervises communications staff and partners closely with leadership, operations and regional agencies. The Manager, Communications ensures all communications remain clear, accurate, accessible and timely — particularly during service changes, major initiatives and incidents.

Essential Functions & Duties

Examples of Essential Functions:

• Manage media relations, including pitching stories, responding to inquiries, developing positive relationships with the press, coordinating interviews and preparing spokespeople.
• Develop and implement a robust social media program, monitor public sentiment and performance metrics to inform continuous improvement of all channels.
• Oversee the ideation, creation, and distribution of content across digital, print, social media and customer-facing channels.
• Supervise staff. Hire, mentor, and take appropriate corrective and/or disciplinary actions. Ensure EEO policies and procedures are followed. Participate in selection, coordinate staff training and professional development, objectives, monitor and evaluate employee performance.

Examples of Essential Duties:

• Manage Rail Safety Education Program and Suicide Prevention Initiatives.
• Support communications planning for service changes and capital projects.
• Manage crisis communications planning and exercises for the Communications Division.
• Interface with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ensure attendance and support of necessary board meetings, citizens advisory committees, service planning or other review meetings.
• Serve as backup Public Information Officer as needed.
• Evaluate job performance staff, which also includes the professional development of staff through the identification of on-the-job and other professional development opportunities.
• Perform all job duties and responsibilities in a safe manner to protect oneself, fellow employees and the public from injury or harm. Promote safety awareness and follow safety procedures in an effort to reduce or eliminate accidents.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Sufficient experience, training, and/or education to demonstrate the knowledge and ability to successfully perform the essential functions of the position. In lieu of a degree, work-related experience that demonstrates the required skills and abilities may be considered.

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations or a related field.
• Five (5) years of progressively responsible full-time experience in communications, public affairs or media relations.
• Two (2) years full-time supervisory experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong understanding of public-sector communications, media relations and crisis communications.
• Proven ability to translate complex or technical information into clear, audience-focused messaging.
• Excellent writing, editing and verbal communication skills.
• Experience managing teams, workflows and multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Familiarity with transportation, infrastructure or government agencies.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion and accessible communications.

The selection process may include a panel interview, written and skills test assessments, or supplemental questions. Only those candidates who are the most qualified will continue in the selection process. Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee an invitation to continue in the process.

How to Apply

• Complete an online employment application by 11:59 p.m. of the listed closing date. Resumes and cover letters will not be accepted in lieu of fully completed applications. It is the applicant’s responsibility to ensure that applications are completed with all relevant information (experience, education, certifications, licenses, references and/or other information).
• The Human Resources Department will make reasonable efforts in the recruitment/examination process to accommodate applicants with disabilities upon request. If you have a need for an accommodation, please contact the Human Resources Department.
• We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming workplace environment. We are an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Minorities, Women, Persons with Disabilities and Veterans are encouraged to apply.