Communications Manager (National Center for Infrastructure Transformation - NCIT)

Prairie View A&M University•Prairie View, TX

About The Position

The Communications Manager will work under the supervision of the Director of the National Center for Infrastructure Transformation (NCIT). The individual will be responsible for leading the development and implementation of comprehensive and integrated communication strategies that align with NCIT’s vision, mission, and the strategic goals of the U.S Department of Transportation. This role combines high-level strategic communication planning with hands-on multimedia content creation, media relations, internal communications, and stakeholder engagement. This position demands a high degree of independence, discretion, and critical thinking. This position is funded by a grant or restricted funds. Continued employment is contingent on the renewal of grant or restricted funding.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Communications or related field.
Five years of related experience including two years of related supervisory experience.
Knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet applications.
Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.
Strong interpersonal and organizational skill.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree in in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, or a related field.
More than 5 years of experience in a communications role, preferably within a research, academic, or government organization.
Demonstrated experience in developing and executing strategic communication plans.
Experience with web design, photography, videography, and/or graphic design.
Exceptional written and verbal (presentation) communication skills.
Proficiency in digital communication tools and platforms.
Strong organizational and project management abilities.
Ability to translate complex technical information into accessible content.
Experience with media relations, podcasting, writing blogs, and public speaking.
Show a progression of demonstrated experience in developing and executing strategic communication plans.
Familiarity with transportation infrastructure topics and research dissemination.
Experience in crisis communication and reputation management.
Knowledge of federal research funding and reporting requirements.

Responsibilities

Develops and executes integrated communication strategies; aligns messaging with NCIT and US Department of Transportation priorities; coordinates with directors and partner universities.
Writes, edits, and supervises production of articles, newsletters, annual reports, and press releases. Ensures clarity, tone, and branding consistency across all media.
Builds and maintains media partnerships; handles interviews, press kits, and media inquiries; drafts press releases; supports federal and state visibility campaigns.
Oversees design of visual materials — reports, brochures, infographics, social graphics, and branding templates. Manages internal/external designers as needed.
Oversees NCIT’s website and social platforms; ensures regular updates, analytics tracking, and content alignment with NCIT’s mission. Supervises the multimedia journalist’s online posting cadence.
Facilitates information flow between NCIT leadership, university partners, and project teams.
Collaborates with event planners to design communication plans for NCIT workshops, symposia, and conferences. Develops and executes promotional campaigns and collateral.
Engages with stakeholders and academic partners to communicate NCIT’s value, collect impact stories, and align with external communication expectations.
Tracks communication performance, compiles engagement metrics, prepares quarterly visibility reports for NCIT leadership and US Department of Transportation deliverables.
Manages communication project timelines, budgets, and equipment inventory. Provides direction to communication assistants or interns.
Work collaboratively with the University's Office of Marketing and Communications to align and support strategic communications and marketing efforts that enhance institutional awareness and engagement .
Performs other duties as assigned.