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Communications Director Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Director of Communications

Raleigh, NC · Hybrid

$165K - $185K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Director of Communications leads Kennedy Jenks's internal and external communications strategy, shaping how our story is told and experienced by employees, clients, and the broader industry.

The Role The Director of Internal Communications is a collaborative leader with a track record of delivering high-quality internal communications in a professional environment. As a key member of the ...

Communications Specialist

Raleigh, NC · On-site +1

$52K - $69K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

You will play a key part in our Marketing and Communications function to shape and execute ... We are only accepting direct applicants; third-party recruiters or agencies will not be considered.

Posted today

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Communications Director information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$30.9K

$90.3K

$150.1K

How much do communications director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for communications director in Raleigh, NC is $90,284.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,300.00 and $111,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Communications Director vs Public Relations Manager?

AspectCommunications DirectorPublic Relations Manager
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Communications, Marketing, or related field; often advanced degrees preferredBachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, or related field
Work EnvironmentStrategic leadership in organizations, overseeing internal and external messagingManaging media relations, press releases, and public image campaigns
Employer & Industry UsageCorporations, nonprofits, government agenciesPublic relations firms, corporate communications departments
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding leadership roles in communicationFocus on media relations and public image management

The Communications Director typically holds a strategic leadership role, overseeing all communication efforts within an organization, including internal and external messaging. In contrast, a Public Relations Manager primarily focuses on managing media relations and public image campaigns. While both roles require strong communication skills and relevant credentials, the Communications Director has broader responsibilities and a higher level of strategic oversight.

What does a communications director do?

A Communications Director oversees an organization's internal and external communication strategies to ensure consistent messaging and brand representation. They manage public relations, media inquiries, and often supervise a team responsible for content creation, social media, and crisis communication. Their role is crucial in shaping how the public perceives the organization and in managing its reputation. Communications Directors typically collaborate with executive leadership to align messaging with organizational goals and may also handle speechwriting, press releases, and stakeholder engagement.

Is a communications director a stressful job?

A communications director often faces high-pressure situations, tight deadlines, and the need to manage multiple stakeholders, which can contribute to stress. The role requires strong communication skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to handle crises, making it potentially demanding but also rewarding for those with resilience and organizational skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a communications director?

To thrive as a Communications Director, you need expertise in strategic communication, media relations, and brand management, often supported by a degree in communications, public relations, or a related field. Familiarity with digital marketing platforms, content management systems, and analytics tools is typically required. Outstanding written and verbal communication, leadership, and crisis management abilities help professionals excel in this role. These skills are vital for shaping public perception, ensuring consistent messaging, and effectively promoting organizational goals.

What are the most common challenges faced by a communications director in managing both internal and external messaging?

A Communications Director often faces the challenge of maintaining consistent messaging across various channels while adapting content to suit different audiences. Balancing the needs of internal stakeholders, such as executives and employees, with the expectations of external audiences, including media and the public, requires strong coordination and adaptability. Additionally, responding quickly and effectively during a crisis or unexpected event is a key responsibility, demanding preparedness and excellent judgment. Effective collaboration with marketing, public relations, and leadership teams is essential to ensure alignment and achieve organizational goals.
More about Communications Director jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Communications jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Communications jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Communications Director jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Communications Director jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Communications Director jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Communications Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Communications Director job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $90,284 per year, or $43.4 per hour.

Director of Communications

kennedyjc

Raleigh, NC • Hybrid

$165K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

The Director of Communications leads Kennedy Jenks’s internal and external communications strategy, shaping how our story is told and experienced by employees, clients, and the broader industry. Working closely with senior leadership, this role drives clear, consistent, and compelling communications that advance our strategy, strengthen our culture, and support long-term growth. 

As a key partner to the Chief Strategy & Growth Officer, CEO, and executive team, the Director of Communications translates strategy into narrative—helping leaders and employees understand the why, see their role in execution, and stay aligned as KJ evolves. This role also coaches senior leaders on using communication as a powerful leadership and engagement tool. 

Strong executive presence, exceptional writing skills, and experience in the engineering or professional services industry are essential. 

Key Responsibilities 

Strategy, Brand & Governance 

  • Set and lead KJ’s communications strategy, ensuring consistent messaging across all internal and external audiences. 

  • Advise the CEO, Board, and senior leadership on strategic messaging, positioning, and communications opportunities. 

  • Own and evolve KJ’s brand, including voice, visual identity, and brand standards, to reflect a future-focused vision. 

  • Establish communications standards, editorial governance, and messaging frameworks across the organization. 

  • Direct visual and content strategy across platforms, including website, marketing materials, client deliverables, conferences, and social media. 

Executive & Internal Communications 

  • Lead executive and internal communications strategies that align leadership messaging with business priorities. 

  • Strengthen the employer brand through purpose-driven, transparent communication that fosters engagement and connection. 

  • Partner closely with leaders across KJ, challenging and refining thinking where needed to ensure clarity and alignment. 

  • Support KJ’s internal events (virtual and in-person) that inform, engage, and connect employees. 

  • Oversee editorial planning, content creation, and distribution of major internal communications. 

  • Leverage technology and data to modernize internal communications and enhance employee experience in a distributed work environment. 

External Communications & Thought Leadership 

  • Craft and activate compelling corporate narratives that clearly articulate KJ’s values through content, thought leadership, social media, events, and earned media. 

  • Position KJ as an employer of choice through innovative employer branding and recruitment-focused communications. 

  • Own KJ’s website, including content strategy, SEO, analytics, and ongoing updates. 

  • Lead social media strategy and content to support brand, talent, and business development goals. 

  • Develop regional communications strategies to support growth across geographies. 

  • Manage inbound communications, external inquiries, and targeted award submissions for staff and leadership. 

Experience & Desired Skillset 

  • 15+ years of experience leading complex, integrated communications strategies 

  • Deep understanding of how PR, editorial, social, marketing, and thought leadership work together 

  • Proven ability to develop, execute, and measure high-impact communications programs 

  • Exceptional storytelling skills with a strong strategic lens 

  • Executive-level presence and comfort partnering with C-suite and senior leaders 

  • Demonstrated people leadership experience, with the ability to build and grow high-performing teams 

  • Strong judgment, problem-solving ability, and collaborative decision-making style 

  • Resilient, curious, and adaptable in a fast-evolving environment 

  • Commitment to integrity, inclusion, and amplifying diverse perspectives 

Kennedy Jenks supports a healthy work-life balance and utilizes a hybrid work model to empower our people to grow, learn, and thrive. This role offers strong mentorship, technical development, and exposure to meaningful infrastructure projects that make a real impact. 

The anticipated salary range for this position is $165,000 – $185,000, depending on education, experience, qualifications, licensure/certifications, and geographic location. This position is eligible for performance and incentive compensation. 

Benefits Summary: Medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, 401(k), bonus opportunities, tuition reimbursement, professional registration support, competitive PTO and holiday plan, and additional benefits and programs. 

#LI-Hybrid