Communications Manager

WHO WE ARE

Resource Conservation Districts (RCDs) across California serve as local hubs for conservation, providing technical, financial, and educational support to landowners, farmers, and community members to protect, restore, and enhance natural resources on both private and public lands.

The East Stanislaus Resource Conservation District (ESRCD) focuses on supporting residents and farmers in Stanislaus County by offering programs and resources that improve the health of our communities, protect natural ecosystems, and sustain our agricultural legacy. As a local government Special District, ESRCD is governed by a board of directors and works closely with other state and local agencies, and community organizations.

Through these partnerships, ESRCD helps advance environmental stewardship, conservation education, and sustainable land management across the San Joaquin Valley fostering a healthier, more resilient landscape for current and future generations.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Communications Program Manager is a dynamic and creative professional who will play a key leadership role in advancing the mission of the East Stanislaus Resource Conservation District (ESRCD). Reporting directly to the Director of Engagement, this position is responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring marketing and communications strategies that effectively share the organization’s story, strengthen its brand, and expand its reach.

DUTIES & FUNCTIONS

• Campaign Development & Implementation: Lead the design and execution of marketing and communications campaigns, ensuring alignment with ESRCD’s strategic goals and values.
• Content Creation & Branding: Work collaboratively with Program Managers to develop consistent, high-quality communications materials, including website content, social media, newsletters, and outreach collateral.
• Social Media & Digital Outreach: Design and manage strategic social media campaigns, ensuring timely delivery of the monthly newsletter by the 15th of each month.
• Media & Community Relations: Build relationships with influencers, media outlets, and community partners to increase visibility and arrange story placements.
• Outreach & Events: Participate in community and organizational events, representing ESRCD and engaging with diverse stakeholders.

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills, with the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with proven ability to develop compelling narratives.
• Demonstrated creativity and attention to detail in communications, branding, and design.
• Experience collaborating effectively with staff, board members, and external stakeholders.
• Commitment to ESRCD’s mission, vision, and organizational values.
• Ability to handle sensitive information and competing deadlines with discretion and professionalism.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This position operates in a professional office setting with a flexible schedule, including the ability to work remotely and on-site. The role requires prolonged periods of sitting, as well as occasional standing, walking, bending, squatting, and lifting items up to 40 pounds.

Some duties involve community outreach, including visiting event or program sites, participating in community improvement projects such as clean-ups or plantings, and working outdoors in various weather conditions.

The position also requires incidental use of a motor vehicle during daylight, after dark, and in inclement weather. A valid driver’s license and insurance is required. While ESRCD provides access to some vehicles, occasional use of a personal vehicle may be necessary, with mileage reimbursed at the federal rate.

BENEFITS & COMPENSATION

The Communication Program Manager position offers a competitive hourly rate of $28-34, depending on experience.

The ESRCD benefits package includes paid legal holidays, workers’ compensation, vacation pay, sick leave, and comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and retirement plans. Eligibility for benefits varies and becomes available at specified times during or following the probationary period.

JOIN OUR TEAM - APPLY TODAY!

As part of the application process, we ask candidates to complete a short assignment to help us better understand their approach to branding, creativity, and communications. Please submit the following with your application materials:

1. Writing Sample

Write a 150–200 word article that could be featured in ESRCD’s monthly newsletter. Choose one of the following topics:

• Why soil health matters for our community
• Tips for bringing sustainability into everyday life
• Why conservation is a community effort

2. Social Media Mock-Ups

Create 2–3 sample social media posts (graphics and captions) promoting one of the following:

• An upcoming community workshop or training
• ESRCD’s monthly newsletter
• ESRCD’s role in supporting farmers, ranchers, and landowners

You may use free design tools e.g., Canva (however no AI-we want to hear your real voice!) in any format you prefer. Submissions do not need to be polished final products but should demonstrate your branding eye, creativity, and messaging approach.

Submission Guidelines

• Please submit your materials as a PDF or provide links to view your content.
• This assignment should not take more than 2–3 hours to complete.
• Email submissions along with your resume and cover letter to: HR at

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. The ESRCD is proud to be an equal opportunity employer - we welcome candidates from all backgrounds to apply!

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $28.00 - $34.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Cell phone reimbursement
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• Social Media Promotions & Advertising: 5 years (Required)
• Canva, or other graphic design software: 5 years (Preferred)
• Partnership Development: 5 years (Preferred)

Willingness to travel:

• 25% (Preferred)

Work Location: In person