Posted: 5/28/25

Title: Communications and Grants Manager

Location: Port of Columbia County office in Columbia City, Oregon

Position Type: Salaried/Exempt. Full-Time. On-site (opportunity for hybrid)

Compensation: $79,976 - $112,008    

Reporting: This role reports directly to the Deputy Executive Director and has no direct reports.

Are you a skilled writer who excels at finding grant opportunities and turning technical information into clear, engaging content? Do you value teamwork, dynamic day to day, and service to our community? If yes, you may be a great fit for the Port of Columbia County's Communications position where you can work both independently and as part of a collaborative team, the Port of Columbia County invites you to consider joining us as our Communications & Grants Manager.

Position Summary:

A seasoned professional to manage public relations, communications, grants, and community outreach. As Communications & Grants Manager, you’ll serve as spokesperson, coordinate media and community events, and support marketing and grant efforts across departments. This role requires strong communication skills, knowledge of Port activities, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively with internal and external partners. Good judgment and professionalism are essential.

Essential Functions / Key Responsibilities:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Steward the Port brand, public image, and strategic outreach communications by leading day-to-day operations of the Port’s communications and engagement effort including:

• Advise and support senior leadership on strategic communications, branding, and public engagement in order to meet the Port's mission and goals.
• Conceptualize, create, and manage public relations and community outreach activities for the Port, to include newsletters, invitations, photos, flyers, advertisements, annual reports, press releases, events, and social media. Act as spokesperson for the Port.
• Manage the website, social media, and multimedia content.
• Find, build, submit, and strengthen grant proposals through working with funding agencies at local, state, and federal levels.
• Partner across departments on grant projects spanning the spectrum of Port owned assets (Airport, Marina, Marine Terminal, Brownfields, Industrial, Recreation, Agricultural, etc.).
• Identify new funding opportunities that align with Port’s strategic priorities, mission, and vision.
• Detect public relations issues as they emerge and address them proactively.

Qualifications:

Required

• Captivating writing skills and excellent grammar.
• Expert with multiple communication and media platforms, such as print, video, social media, and internet.
• Skilled in public speaking, particularly in politically charged environments.
• Talented in finding relevant grant opportunities and submitting competitive proposals, proven success is preferred.
• Communicate effectively with the general public, community partners, and co-workers.
• Capable of accomplishing assigned duties with independence, in a timely manner.
• Able to understand and follow oral and written directions.
• Able to maintain regular attendance and be punctual.

Preferred

• Prefer experience in the public sector, port authority, and / or grant management.
• Proficient in project management, timelines and prioritizing tasks.
• Strong knowledge of Port aviation, maritime and industrial businesses.
• Strong knowledge of media practices, advertising, and promotion.

Life at the Port of Columbia County

• 100% of health insurance premiums for you and your family are on us! On top of this amazing benefit is a Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) funded twice per year.
• 100% contribution into your PERS retirement plan!
• 11 paid federal holidays + 1 floating paid holiday + 1 paid day off for your birthday each year
• 12 paid sick days per year
• Potential to work a modified schedule after completion of the 6-month probationary period.
• Annual reviews with performance-based merit increases
• Professional Development and other career development opportunities

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. Our hiring practices are designed to ensure fairness and equal opportunity for everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability status, religion, or socioeconomic background.

We comply with federal and state disability laws and make reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact our HR at hello@humane-hr.com.

Still want to know more about us? We’re flattered. Learn more about our organization at https://www.portofcolumbiacounty.org.

And don’t forget to apply today by emailing your resume and one page or less cover letter to hello@humane-hr.com.