Public Affairs Manager

The Fremont Fire Department is a dedicated public safety organization committed to protecting the community of Fremont, California, through comprehensive emergency response, prevention, preparedness, and community engagement initiatives. Located in the heart of the Bay Area, the Department serves a diverse and dynamic population by upholding the highest standards of professionalism and innovation. Collaboration and strong partnerships within the department and with the community are core values that drive the Department's success in safeguarding life, property, and the environment. As a modern fire service agency, the Fremont Fire Department continually adapts to the evolving needs of its residents, employing advanced technology and best practices to enhance emergency services and preventive programs.

The Department is currently recruiting for a strategic and highly collaborative Public Affairs Manager to oversee communications, public information, and community engagement efforts. This full-time, regular position offers an annual salary range of $131,308.88 to $177,266.98 and reports directly to the Fire Chief. The Public Affairs Manager serves as the Department's primary Public Information Officer (PIO) and is responsible for shaping public messaging, supporting emergency communications, and fostering community trust and preparedness.

This role is not a traditional communications position. The successful candidate will be a versatile strategist, effective communicator, collaborator, and problem-solver who thrives in a fast-paced public safety environment. This person will navigate seamlessly among executive briefings, community outreach, emergency response communication, and operational coordination. Key qualities include political savvy, sound judgment under pressure, strong relationship building across departments and community groups, and the ability to deliver consistent, accurate, and timely messaging during emergencies and critical incidents.

Key responsibilities include serving as the primary media contact and Public Information Officer during emergency events; developing, managing, and implementing comprehensive public education, outreach, preparedness, and engagement programs; authoring press releases, newsletters, presentations, and communication materials; managing the Department's website content and social media platforms; supporting emergency alert systems such as Everbridge, Nixle, and IPAWS; responding to field incidents and emergency activations outside of normal business hours; and supporting department initiatives such as recruitment, CERT programs, school outreach, and community preparedness efforts.

The Public Affairs Manager will work collaboratively with all divisions of the Fremont Fire Department and closely coordinate with the City’s Communications Director to ensure clear, coordinated public messaging. This position demands strong leadership skills, as the Manager will direct and supervise professional and technical staff within the Community Engagement Unit. The role requires the ability to make independent judgments within the established policy guidelines and the foresight to develop, plan, and execute strategic communication plans that effectively promote the Department's mission and goals.

Candidates should have a Bachelor’s degree in marketing, journalism, public relations, public administration, or related fields, alongside at least five years of progressively responsible experience in public affairs, communications, or public relations, including two years in supervisory or lead roles. The ideal individual will possess profound knowledge of program management principles, local laws and ordinances, and effective communication strategies across various mediums such as print, internet, and broadcast. Proficiency with graphic design software and digital communication tools is essential.

This position requires flexibility to work evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays as necessary, with the ability to travel independently within and outside the City limits, supported by possession of a valid Class C Driver's License. The role carries the responsibility of representing the Department and City in a professional manner during all community interactions, media engagements, and emergency situations.

By joining the Fremont Fire Department as a Public Affairs Manager, individuals become part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to enhancing public safety and fostering community resilience. The Department offers a meaningful career opportunity where one can directly impact public awareness, community preparedness, and emergency communication effectiveness in a vibrant, diverse community.