Senior Communications Specialist, Human and Community Development

American Institutes for Research

Senior Communications Specialist overseeing public health communications projects for promoting healthy communities. Collaborating with federal, state, and local government agencies for effective messaging.

Posted 4/23/2026full-timeRemote • California, Illinois, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $115,000 - $140,000 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead the development and execution of strategic communications plans that align with client goals and AIR’s mission
Oversee the creation and dissemination of high-quality content across digital platforms, publications, and media outlets
Guide messaging strategy and editorial direction for complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives
Manage cross-functional teams and workflows to ensure timely delivery of communications products
Conduct audience research and apply insights to optimize engagement and accessibility
Analyze performance metrics across channels (e.g., social media, web, email) and use data to refine strategies
Serve as a senior advisor to clients and internal teams on communications best practices, branding, and outreach
Lead proposal development efforts related to communications strategy, budgeting, and staffing
Ensure compliance with accessibility standards and AIR’s style and brand guidelines
Mentor junior communications staff and contribute to professional development initiatives

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field
8+ years of experience in strategic communications
Proven experience managing communications for external clients and leading multi-channel campaigns
Experience in a shared services or consulting environment is preferred, but not required.

Benefits

Comp & perks

AIR’s Total Rewards Program offers competitive rewards
Professional development opportunities

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools

strategic communicationscontent creationaudience researchperformance metrics analysiscommunications strategybrandingoutreachmulti-channel campaignsproposal developmentaccessibility standards

Soft Skills

leadershipteam managementmentoringcommunicationcollaborationstrategic thinkingclient advisoryproblem-solvingorganizational skillsprofessional development

Certifications

Bachelor’s degree in CommunicationsBachelor’s degree in JournalismBachelor’s degree in Public Relations