Outreach and Communications Specialist
Salary
$50,772.80 - $55,848.00 Annually
Location
Harrisonburg, VA
Job Type
Full-Time
Job Number
5178 - (July 2026)
Department
Public Works
Opening Date
07/22/2026
Closing Date
Continuous
FLSA
Non-Exempt
Description
The City of Harrisonburgs Public Works Department is seeking an Outreach and Communications Specialist to lead the departments communications, public outreach, and marketing efforts. This position plays a key role in connecting residents with the essential services, projects, and initiatives that enhance our communitys quality of life. Through strategic communications, creative storytelling, and community engagement, youll help showcase how Public Works serves Harrisonburg through infrastructure, environmental stewardship, transportation, maintenance, and other essential services. If you thrive in a collaborative, team-oriented environment and enjoy making a meaningful impact through communication, apply today to be considered for this opportunity!
The Outreach and Communications Specialist is a full-time position with benefits and a preferred hiring range of $24.41 - $26.85 per hour (equivalent to $50,772 - $55,848 annually); however, an exact salary will be dependent upon the selected candidates qualifications/experience and in compliance with City Policy.
The ideal candidate is a creative and organized communications professional who enjoys developing marketing campaigns, creating engaging content, managing social media, managing a website, writing for a variety of audiences, and building relationships with the public and community partners. In this role, youll collaborate with staff across all Public Works divisions to highlight projects, programs, and services through digital, print, and in-person outreach. To get a sense of the work youll help produce, visit the Public Works Departments Facebook and Instagram pages to see examples of our community outreach and communications.
A detailed list of essential functions, along with the ideal candidates knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position, is available in the Outreach and Communications Specialist class specification.
Minimum Qualifications
Any combination of education and experience equivalent to:
Associate degree with coursework in marketing, communications, public administration, journalism, or related field and demonstrated experience effectively communicating programs/events through social media outlets.
Some experience in public relations, volunteer management, and special projects and events coordination and management.
Valid drivers license.
Availability to work some evenings and weekends, as needed.
Click here to view the physical requirements for this position.
The selected candidate for this position will be subject to the following screenings and must receive satisfactory results:
Supplemental Information
To Apply: In order to be considered, all candidates must submit a complete City of Harrisonburg online employment application, including previous work experience and education history. This position may close at any time after 10 calendar days. (posted 07/22/2026)
The City provides an excellent benefits package including health insurance, retirement (VRS & MissionSquare), life insurance, paid leave (including upfront sick leave) and 15.5 holidays.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, disability or veteran status.
The City of Harrisonburg is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Full-time employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, including 15.5 observed holidays. More information on available benefits is listed on the Citys website.
01
What is your highest level of education?
02
Which of the following drivers license do you possess?
03
Are you available to work some evenings and weekends, as needed?
Required Question
Employer City of Harrisonburg
Address 409 South Main Street
Third Floor
Harrisonburg, Virginia, 22801
Phone 540.432.8920
540.432.7796