The City of Foster City is seeking a highly skilled Communication Specialist to develop, implement, and manage a comprehensive public information and communications program for the Police department. This position plays a critical role in promoting the department’s mission, goals, and values through strategic outreach, education, and public engagement initiatives.
The Communication Specialist will design and execute public relations strategies, oversee media communications, and support departmental leadership on matters involving public affairs. This role requires strong professional judgment, exceptional communication skills, and the ability to operate effectively in high‑visibility environments.
While the current vacancy is in the Police Department, the list may be used to fill future vacancies in other departments for the duration of the list.
Education and Experience
Any combination equivalent to experience and education that could likely provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities. A typical way would be:
Education: Graduation from high school or equivalent; coursework in social media, communications, and journalism is highly desirable, but not required.
Experience: No experience is necessary; one (1) year of paid or documented volunteer experience in an office environment is highly desirable.
Special Requirements
Ability to move boxes, tables and chairs, and equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.
To review the full job announcement click on the "Foster City Communications Specialist" below.
Selection Process
Applications will be reviewed for relevant education, experience, training and other job related qualifications. Based upon a review of employment applications received, a limited number of the qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the examination process.
The process will consist of an Oral Panel Interview (weighted 80%) and a written exercise (weighted 20%). An eligibility list will be established from those who pass the examination process with a score of 70% or higher. Current and future vacancies may be filled from this list. The list will remain in effect for at least one year unless exhausted sooner.
The department will invite the most qualified candidates from the eligibility list to a final department interview. The Police department will make the hiring decision.
Expected Dates for Examinations (subject to change):
Oral Panel Interview: TBD
Department Interview: TBD
Note: Meeting the minimum qualifications does not guarantee that a candidate will be invited to participate in the selection process. The City of Foster City reserves the right, at its discretion, to limit the number of qualified candidates invited to the selection process.
Application Filing Period: Closes at 5:00pm on the date stated in the job announcement; however, it may close prior to the filing end date if sufficient applications have been received. If sufficient applications have not been received, then the filing period end date may be extended.
