Communications Specialist, Education Systems & Policy

American Institutes for Research

4d • $96,650 - $102,000

About The Position

AIR is seeking a Communications Specialist to develop and implement strategic communications initiatives that translate complex research and technical content into clear, engaging products for diverse audiences. The role spans content strategy, writing, digital communications, stakeholder engagement, project management, and team coordination. The position will be primarily staffed within AIR's Education Systems & Policy program, with opportunities to support work across early childhood, PK-12, postsecondary education, workforce development, and adult learning.

Candidates may work remotely within the United States, excluding U.S. territories, or from one of AIR's U.S. office locations. The role supports education project teams and clients and contributes to communications planning, dissemination, and business development.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree with at least 5 years of experience in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Public Policy, or a related field; or a master's degree with at least 4 years of experience in one of these fields or a related field.
• Experience supporting external clients, managing small teams, and working in a shared services model.
• Ability to think strategically and align communications approaches with organizational, client, and project objectives.
• Knowledge of dissemination and communication strategies that promote awareness, understanding, and use of research and evidence-based practices.
• Strong consulting and relationship-management skills, including experience working with diverse stakeholders and client-facing teams.
• Excellent writing, editing, and presentation skills, including the ability to communicate complex information clearly to varied audiences.
• Strong analytical skills and experience using audience, web, and communications performance data to inform planning.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills, including managing competing priorities in fast-paced environments.
• Proficiency with digital communications platforms, content management systems, analytics tools, and accessible communications technologies used to create, disseminate, and evaluate communications products.
• Must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis; employment-based visa sponsorship is not available.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of strategic communications and dissemination plans that advance project goals and increase the visibility and impact of AIR's education work.
• Advise education project teams and clients on messaging, audience engagement, and outreach strategies.
• Translate complex research, policy, and technical content into clear, accessible, audience-centered products, including infographics, videos, and short briefs.
• Lead integrated communications campaigns and dissemination across digital, social, web, multimedia, and event platforms.
• Oversee editorial planning, content development, and communications workflows to ensure high-quality, accessible deliverables.
• Analyze communications metrics and audience data to assess performance and recommend improvements.
• Coordinate communications activities across multidisciplinary teams and manage multiple project priorities.
• Contribute to business development, including proposal development, communications planning, and strategic growth initiatives.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level