Director of Communications

Job Title: Communications Director

Office: Assemblyman Patrick B. Burke, 142nd Assembly District

Location: Buffalo, NY

Application Deadline: Rolling

Position: Full-time, part-time and contract employment considered

Work Location: In person

Role Description: The Communications Director will be responsible for creating and distributing digital content, developing and managing communication strategies, handling media relations, overseeing public relations efforts, and ensuring effective strategic communications.

Responsibilities:

Content Creation & Management

Plan, create and schedule engaging, platform-specific content (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X, TikTok, YouTube, etc.).

Film, edit, and produce high-quality video content including reels, stories, livestreams and behind-the-scenes features.

Design branded graphics, templates and visuals that align with the Assemblyman’s voice and office style.

Write clear, compelling copy that make policy accessible and community news relatable.

Strategic Digital Planning

Develop and execute a social media strategy aligned with the Assemblyman’s legislative goals and community engagement efforts.

Track and analyze performance metrics to optimize reach, engagement and audience growth.

Collaborate with staff to align online content with overall office messaging and campaigns.

Maintain a content calendar tied to legislative events, district-related happenings and breaking news.

Community & Constituent Engagement

Monitor messages, comments and mentions; respond appropriately or route inquiries to relevant staff.

Elevate constituent voices, local businesses and community stories through social media features.

Promote and cover district events (e.g., town halls, press conferences, community meetings) in real-time online.

Brand & Voice Management

Uphold and evolve the Assemblyman’s visual identity and narrative tone across all platforms.

Ensure accuracy, cultural sensitivity, and accessibility in all digital content.

Stay informed on digital trends, best practices, and evolving platform tools and algorithms.

Qualifications:

2+ years relevant work experience in communications, digital communications, social media management or content creation.

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Political Science, Public Relations or related field.

Proficiency in graphic design (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite) and video editing tools (e.g., Premiere Pro, CapCut, Final Cut).

Experience managing multiple social media channels.

Excellent writing, editing and storytelling skills with a sharp political and cultural awareness.

Ability to shoot/edit video using a phone or camera and produce fast-turnaround content.

Strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask under pressure.

Knowledge of state government, community affairs, or advocacy preferred.

Outstanding research, analytical and logical critical thinking skills, with the ability to identify a problem or issue, provide analysis, and recommend responses.

High level of attention to detail to ensure accuracy and quality in all marketing activities.

Compensation: $60,000 a year plus excellent state benefits.

To Apply: Submit a resume, brief cover letter, and portfolio or sample of digital content to dunnen@nyassembly.gov. The recruitment will remain open until filled. Due to the volume of applications, we will not be able to respond to each applicant.