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Community Relations Director Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Unit Director

Lawrence, KS · On-site

$50K/yr

... manages community relations and volunteers, and manages member recruitment and membership ... Director of Programs. Supervises: Part-time Unit staff and AmeriCorps Member volunteers. Essential ...

The Marketing Director is responsible for development and implementation system-wide strategic ... Develops and promotes community relations opportunities, including responsibility for developing ...

The Marketing Director is responsible for development and implementation system-wide strategic ... Develops and promotes community relations opportunities, including responsibility for developing ...

Clinic Director

Wichita, KS · On-site

$71K - $97K/yr

The Clinic Director leads and manages daily clinic operations, ensuring the delivery of high ... Develop and implement policies and procedures, including those related to community relations and ...

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Community Relations Director information

See Kansas salary details

$21.9K

$65.9K

$112.4K

How much do community relations director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for community relations director in Kansas is $65,911.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,100.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Community Relations Director vs Community Outreach Coordinator?

AspectCommunity Relations DirectorCommunity Outreach Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree in communications, marketing, or related field; experience in public relationsBachelor's degree often preferred; experience in community engagement
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, overseeing teams, high-level stakeholder interactionsExecuting outreach programs, event coordination, direct community engagement
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, corporations, government agenciesNonprofits, community organizations, educational institutions

The Community Relations Director focuses on strategic relationship building and managing communication efforts at a higher level, while the Community Outreach Coordinator handles direct community engagement and event execution. Both roles require strong communication skills and community knowledge but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the main challenges a Community Relations Director faces when building partnerships with local organizations?

A Community Relations Director often encounters challenges such as aligning organizational goals with those of potential partners, navigating differing priorities, and overcoming limited resources or budgets on both sides. Additionally, building trust and maintaining clear, consistent communication with diverse stakeholders can require significant effort and diplomacy. Success in this role relies on adaptability, strong relationship-building skills, and a proactive approach to identifying mutually beneficial opportunities.

What does a Community Relations Director do?

A Community Relations Director is responsible for building and maintaining positive relationships between an organization and the communities it serves. They develop outreach programs, coordinate events, and facilitate communication to promote the organization's image and goals. This role often involves partnering with local groups, managing public relations, and handling community feedback to ensure mutual understanding and cooperation. Their work helps foster goodwill, address community concerns, and enhance the organization's reputation.

How much does a community center director make?

Community center directors typically earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $65,000, depending on location, experience, and the size of the center. Salaries can vary based on the scope of responsibilities and whether the role is full-time or part-time, with some positions offering additional benefits such as health insurance and paid leave.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

In media, high-paying roles such as senior communications directors, media executives, or public relations managers can earn $150,000 or more annually. These positions typically require extensive experience, strong leadership skills, and often involve managing large teams or strategic communication campaigns.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Community Relations Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Community Relations Director, you need a background in public relations, communications, or marketing, often supported by a relevant degree and experience in stakeholder engagement. Familiarity with CRM platforms, social media management tools, and event planning software is typically required. Excellent interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, and cultural sensitivity help build strong community partnerships and foster positive organizational reputation. These abilities are essential for effectively representing the organization, managing community initiatives, and driving public engagement.

What is the highest paying job in public relations?

The highest paying roles in public relations are typically senior executive positions such as Chief Communications Officer or Vice President of Communications, which can earn six-figure salaries. These roles often require extensive experience, strategic leadership skills, and advanced certifications or degrees in communications or related fields.

What degree do you need to be a community relations manager?

A community relations manager typically needs a bachelor's degree in fields such as public relations, communications, marketing, or a related area. Relevant skills include strong communication, interpersonal abilities, and experience with community engagement or public outreach; some roles may prefer or require a master's degree or professional certifications.

What Does a Community Relations Director Do?

A community relations director manages the relationships with the populations and communities surrounding the company or organization. This position differs from a public relations director in that a community relations director focuses on cultivating positive relationships with local residents and businesses. For example, a community relations director at a hospital may develop informational programs at an area recreational center about preventative health measures recommended once you reach a certain age. Job duties include organizing local events, attending community meetings, and creating programs for community outreach.

What are the most commonly searched types of Community Relations jobs in Kansas? The most popular types of Community Relations jobs in Kansas are:
What are popular job titles related to Community Relations Director jobs in Kansas? For Community Relations Director jobs in Kansas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Kansas are hiring for Community Relations Director jobs? Cities in Kansas with the most Community Relations Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Community Relations Director job openings in Kansas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,911 per year, or $31.7 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Pittsburg State University rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

580th of 614 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Pittsburg State University is accepting applications for a Director of Community Relations in the Division of Economic and Community Engagement that is responsible for serving as liaison between the university and the local community as well as between the division and internal stakeholders and constituents, fostering relationships that support the university's mission and enhance its role as a civic partner. This position develops and implements strategic initiatives to build partnerships, promote university programs, and engage with diverse internal and external stakeholders, including government agencies, non-profits, businesses, neighborhood associations, faculty, and staff.

Duties and Responsibilities

Community Engagement and Partnerships - 30% 

  • Cultivates and maintains strong relationships with local government officials, community organizations, and business leaders 
  • Represents PSU at community meetings, events, and forums to foster goodwill and mutual understanding 
  • Acts as a key point of contact for community inquiries, ensuring timely and effective responses 
  • Serves as tenant relations lead for The Foundry and leads development of strong community ecosystem within The Foundry and the entire Block22 District. Including the following: 
    • Serves as the primary point of contact for tenants within The Foundry and the Block22 District, addressing inquiries, resolving concerns, and ensuring a positive tenant experience while collaborating with legal and management teams to define lease terms and agreements 
    • Coordinates lease agreement processes, including preparation, review, and obtaining signatures, while working with the Facilities Coordinator to maintain accurate property records and regularly collect tenant feedback for continuous improvement 

Strategic Planning and Leadership - 25% 

  • Develops and executes a comprehensive community relations strategy that aligns with the university and division mission and strategic goals 
  • Uses independent judgement to identify opportunities for collaboration with community partners to enhance the university's visibility and impact 
  • Serves as a lead advisor on community relations and engagement matters, providing counsel to division leadership 
  • Works closely in alignment with government relations and economic/community development teams 
  • Monitors and evaluates the effectiveness of community relations initiatives, providing regular reports to division leadership 
  • Identifies key performance indicators (KPIs) and uses data to inform decision-making and continuous improvement 

Program Development and Coordination - 20% 

  • Plans and oversees innovative and strategic community relations and engagement programs and initiatives 
  • Plans and oversees university-sponsored community events, including open houses, service projects, educational workshops, and partnership driven events such as the annual Four State Farm Show 
  • Collaborates with academic and administrative departments to develop community-based programs and initiatives 
  • Works with student organizations to promote civic engagement and volunteer opportunities 

Communication and Advocacy - 20% 

  • Develops messaging and communication materials that highlight the university's community impact and contribution 
  • Oversees the work of the Digital Communications Project Manager in the development and posting on various social media platforms 
  • Works closely with the Creative and Strategic Communications team to promote university research, community relations, and economic development initiatives, programs, news and impact 
  • Advocates for the PSU interests in local policy discussions and community development projects 

Other Duties as assigned - 5% 

  • Contributes to the success of Economic and Community Engagement by performing other duties as assigned 

Education and Experience

Required Education and Experience - Time of Hire

  • 5 years of progressive experience in community relations, public affairs, or a similar role, preferably in higher education 

Preferred Education and Experience

  • Master's degree in public relations, communications, public administration, or related field 
  • 1 year of experience working with local governments and community organizations 

Screening Services (Background Checks): Your employment with Pittsburg State University is contingent on a satisfactory criminal background and sex offender check.

Job Type: Unclassified

Appointment Duration: 12 months

Work Schedule: Full Time, Monday - Friday, weekends as needed, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM, other hours as needed

Application Documents Required*:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Names and Contact Details for three (3) Professional References

*Consolidate into two documents to upload.

Open Until Filled with a first consideration date of July 22nd, 2026.

Search Committee Chair: Kristi Toeller, ktoeller@pittstate.edu

Visa Sponsorship is not available for this position.

PSU will only accept applications submitted through this process.

Pittsburg State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing a respectful and supportive environment for all employees.

About Pittsburg State University

Founded in 1903, Pittsburg State's 373-acre campus is a beautiful blend of historic buildings and modern facilities, including state-of-the-art athletics, arts, and research facilities.  

Its residential and online undergraduate and graduate student population of nearly 6,000 is guided by an exceptionally talented and dedicated faculty, staff, and administrative team.  

Pitt State's hands-on learning environment and engagement by alumni working in a variety of professional sectors creates incredible academic, internship, and employment opportunities for students. Academic programs often bring home national honors.  

The university enjoys a close relationship with Pittsburg residents as well as city and business leaders. Throughout town, you'll see gorilla statues in front lawns and red and gold Gorilla spirit at local businesses. Students, faculty, and staff are highly engaged in the local school district and with service projects, and in turn the community is highly supportive of and engaged in university activities. 

Faculty, staff, and students have access to many amenities, including discounts and free access to concerts, plays, athletic events on campus as well as discounts on meals and services off campus.  

Pitt State has developed unique partnerships in downtown Pittsburg, 1.4 miles north of the main campus. There, Block22 and the historic Hotel Besse offer innovative student housing options and the new Kelce College of Business building, scheduled to open in July 2026, will feature state-of-the-art classrooms, collaboration spaces, and space for professional development and public events. 

The university has earned institutional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission and two elite classifications from the Carnegie Foundation. 


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