Job Description

JobID: 1501

Position Type:

Manager/Manager

Date Posted:

10/27/2025

Location:

Office of the Superintendent

Date Available:

01/05/2026

Closing Date:

11/12/2025

Strategic Communications Director

, Communications

Location

: Clackamas ESD Sunnybrook Office, 13455 SE 97th Ave, Clackamas, OR 97015

Schedule

: 8 hours per day / 5 days per week / Year-Round Calendar



Clackamas ESD strives to infuse equity in all our programs and bodies of work by maintaining an inclusive, barrier-free environment in which everyone participates and fully benefits.

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the qualifications as described in the job description. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be the one who comes from a less traditional background. We would encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our qualifications described. If you are unsure whether you meet the qualifications of this position, or how this would be determined, please feel free to contact Human Resources at hr@clackesd.k12.or.us to discuss your application.

Find your "why" with Clackamas ESD

At Clackamas Education Service District, our mission is to lead, serve and innovate for learning. Clackamas ESD provides services in early learning, special education, technology and teacher/staff support to Clackamas County school districts. We ensure students and families in all of our communities -- big and small -- have access to equitable education services. Learn more about CESD

here

.

About the program

:

Our communications department helps Clackamas ESD convene education leaders and partners in Clackamas County, and oversees internal communications with the 350+ Clackamas ESD employees dispersed in various locations across the county. Our communications team convenes an advisory committee of communications representatives from each of our partner school districts. We gather regularly to collaborate, share information and brainstorm solutions to common challenges.

About this position:

The Strategic Communications Director serves as a key member of the Superintendent's leadership team and provides strategic direction, leadership, and coordination for all district communication efforts. This position develops and manages internal and external communications, media relations, branding, marketing, and public engagement strategies that advance Clackamas ESD's mission to Lead, Serve, and Innovate. The Director works collaboratively with the Superintendent, Board of Directors, Cabinet, staff, component districts, and community partners to strengthen understanding, trust, and support for CESD's programs and priorities.

Essential functions:

+ Develop, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive strategic communications plan aligned with CESD's mission, goals, and policies.
+ Serve as the primary communications liaison for CESD with the media, employees, component school districts, and the community.
+ Provide strategic counsel to the Superintendent and leadership team to ensure that communications support CESD's public policy, legislative, and organizational objectives.
+ Oversee internal and external communications to foster transparency, consistency, and a positive organizational culture.
+ Lead development and management of digital communications, including CESD's website, newsletters, social media platforms, and online publications.
+ Coordinate and respond promptly to public information requests in compliance with state requirements.
+ Develop and manage marketing and branding initiatives to promote CESD programs, services, and innovations.
+ Conduct an annual staff experience survey and analyze results to guide organizational communication and culture improvement.
+ Coordinate emergency communication protocols and ensure staff readiness for effective use of communication systems during emergencies.
+ Attend Board meetings and report regularly on communication initiatives, partnerships, and regional engagement activities that support CESD strategic goals.
+ Oversee development, production, and accuracy of CESD publications including the Local Service Plan, Annual Report, internal communications, newsletters, legislative updates, and other materials.
+ Collaborate with the Chief Financial Officer on communications and marketing budgets, ensuring fiscal alignment with strategic goals.
+ Analyze and draft public comments on proposed state rules or legislation impacting CESD and partner districts.
+ Develop and deliver professional learning and training for staff to strengthen organizational communication and leadership capacity.
+ Collaborate with CESD and district leaders to ensure communications are inclusive, culturally responsive, and equity-centered.
+ Represent CESD in community and statewide meetings, advocating for shared interests and promoting regional collaboration.
+ Monitor demographic, economic, and educational trends to inform strategic planning and communication decisions.
+ Identify and pursue grant or partnership opportunities that support communications and engagement initiatives.
+ Perform other duties as assigned to advance the success of CESD and its mission.

Minimum qualifications

:
+ Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, public relations, journalism, education, or related field, or equivalent professional experience.
+ Demonstrated experience in education communications, media relations, or public affairs, preferably within a K-12 or public agency setting.
+ Deep understanding of education policy, legislative processes, and the mission of Oregon ESDs.
+ Proven success in strategic messaging, content creation, and brand management.
+ Strong skills in writing, editing, and design for print and digital communications.
+ Experience developing and maintaining community partnerships and working effectively with diverse stakeholders.
+ Demonstrated expertise in social media management and digital engagement.
+ Ability to manage complex projects, competing priorities, and sensitive information with professionalism and discretion.
+ Demonstrated capacity for creative problem solving, collaboration, and leadership.

Preferred qualifications:

+ Master's degree in communications, education leadership, public policy, or a related field.
+ Experience with crisis communications, government relations, or advocacy.
+ Familiarity with graphic design software, web content management systems, and analytics tools.

Salary

:

$143,030 - $156,716

depending on experience.

CESD Meet & Confer Salary Schedule 2025-26

Range

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

0-1 yrs exp

2-3 yrs exp

4-5 yrs exp

6+ yrs exp

$143,030 $147,454 $152,015 $156,716

Benefits

:

+ Full medical, dental, and vision insurance with generous district-paid contribution (most employees pay $0 out of pocket to maintain health insurance coverage)
+ Retirement through the Oregon Public Retirement System (PERS) includes pension and individual account program
+ Paid time off, including paid holidays, sick leave, and other personal leave
+ Opportunities to grow with us with generous professional development expense reimbursements
+ Clackamas ESD covers the full cost of fingerprinting for new employees, saving you $82.50 - a benefit not offered by most other districts
+ Read more about our benefits

here

Retirement plan contributions:

Clackamas ESD employees working 600 or more hours in a calendar year are eligible for the Oregon Public Employee Retirement, or PERS. There are two components to PERS, including the pension, which is primarily funded by CESD and The Individual Account Program, or IAP, which is funded by a six-percent deduction from your paycheck. If you are new to PERS, your PERS deduction will begin automatically after a six-month waiting period.

How to apply:

Submit your application at https://www.applitrack.com/clackesd/onlineapp/. Applications for this position must be submitted by 11:59 PM on the listed closing date and must include:

+ Cover Letter
+ Resume
+ Completed application form





Clackamas Education Service District is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We respect and seek to empower each individual and support the diverse cultures, perspectives, skills and experiences within our workforce along with the students and families that we serve.

Clackamas ESD policy provides veterans and disabled veterans with preference as required by law.

Clackamas ESD Notice of Nondiscrimination