Communication Manager

State Role Title: PR & Mktg Mgr II

Hiring Range: $84,834 - $107,369

Pay Band: 5

Agency: Department of Juvenile Justice

Location: Virginia Public Safety Training Center

Agency Website: www.djj.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: State Employee Only - E

Job Duties

This position work location is at Virginia Public Safety Training Center in Hanover, Virginia 23063.

The Communications Manager leads the development and coordination of internal and external communications that strengthen agency visibility, employee engagement, and a well-connected workplace. This role oversees and develops multimedia projects—including newsletters, announcements, videos, social media content, and other digital materials—to ensure clear, consistent messaging that reflects agency priorities.

The position manages communication workflows, guides strategic planning efforts, and supervises communications staff to ensure efficient, high-quality project delivery. It collaborates closely with agency divisions and the Public Information Officer, supports employee engagement initiatives and maintains consistent brand standards across all communication channels.

The Communications Manager provides consultation and technical expertise in media production, communication design, and content development, building strong relationships across the agency to enhance transparency, trust, and information sharing. The role responds promptly to communication needs while fostering a positive, respectful, and collaborative work environment.

This position also oversees key administrative responsibilities, including staff development performance management, budgeting, procurement, and the responsible use of agency equipment and resources. Strong communication and organizational skills, proficiency with multimedia and design tools, and the ability to adapt to shifting priorities are essential. The role operates in remote, hybrid, and in-person settings and requires occasional statewide travel, as well as the ability to carry and set up media equipment and participate in meetings across the Commonwealth, including secure facilities.

Minimum Qualifications

• Advanced proficiency in graphic design, publication development, and multimedia production tools, including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and Express.
• Strong skills using communications and content management platforms, including Microsoft SharePoint, to create, organize, manage, and collaborate on digital materials.
• Demonstrated ability to design and produce publications, mass communications, presentation materials, and visual graphics.
• Ability to develop and contribute to video-based products, web content, and social media communications.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to effectively supervise staff and manage employee performance.
• Ability to coordinate and implement communication campaigns or strategies to achieve defined organizational goals.

Additional Considerations

• A bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, marketing, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience, is preferred.
• Experience with visual communication mediums, such as photography and the video production process.
• Experience working within juvenile justice, correctional environments, or similarly structured public safety settings.

Special Instructions

Application Process: Individuals desiring to be considered for this position must submit a completed employment application or you may attach a resume before the position’s closing date. Applications received after the closing date will not be considered. Documents sent through postal mail, email, or fax will not be considered. Applicants are encouraged to be specific regarding job-related knowledge, skills, and abilities.

You will be provided an email confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application. Status updates will not be provided via telephone or email.

Background & Pre-employment Screenings

Selected applicants are subject to a background investigation and pre-employment drug screen. Investigations may include fingerprint checks (State Police, FBI); local agency checks; employment verification; verification of education (if required and relevant to employment); credit checks; and other checks based on the position.

Pre-employment medical screenings are required for some DJJ positions.

Driver License

A valid driver’s license is required of DJJ employees to operate a state-owned or leased vehicle.

Supplemental Questions

You may be required to respond to position-specific questions at the end of this application. This information may help us evaluate your credentials and qualifications for the job. Failure to respond to any questions may disqualify you from further consideration.

Lay off Policy 1.3

If you have been impacted by the DHRM Policy 1.3 layoff and have a valid Interagency Placement Screening Form (Yellow Card) or Preferential Hiring Form (Blue Card), it is necessary to submit the card before the closing date for this position. You can include the Card as an attachment with your state application.

DJJ Welcomes Veterans

DJJ is committed to recruiting, hiring, and retaining qualified Veterans and their spouses. Veterans who are hired into state positions may be eligible to receive additional leave accruals based on their total years of service in the military, National Guard, or Reserve. If applicable, please submit form DD-214 with your state application.

The Commonwealth of Virginia welcomes all applicants authorized to work in the United States. Sponsorship is not provided; therefore, applicants must be a citizen or national of the U.S., a Lawful Permanent Resident, or an alien authorized to work.

Reasonable Accommodations

Reasonable Accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Contact our Human Resources Department for further assistance.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Department of Juvenile Justice practices fair and equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. It is our policy to prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetics, or disability in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce. Qualified individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. It is our goal to foster a culture that demonstrates the principles of civility, diversity, opportunity, and inclusion.