Community Relations Manager

USA Rare Earth, LLC•El Paso, TX

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Community Relations Manager develops and leads community engagement initiatives that strengthen the organization's reputation as a responsible corporate partner and trusted member of the communities in which it operates. This role builds and maintains positive relationships with local governments, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, community leaders, and other external stakeholders while supporting the company's broader business objectives. The position also partners with internal teams to promote community initiatives through external communications and digital channels that enhance brand awareness and showcase the company's positive impact.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Business, or a related field.
Five or more years of experience in community relations, communications, marketing, stakeholder engagement, or public affairs.
Demonstrated success building partnerships with community organizations, government agencies, educational institutions, and other external stakeholders.
Strong communication, project management, and event coordination skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office and familiarity with digital communications and social media platforms.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting mining, energy, or infrastructure organizations.
Experience managing community investment, sponsorship, volunteer, or grant programs.
Experience developing content for websites, social media, or external communications.
Knowledge of community engagement metrics, public outreach strategies, and economic or workforce development initiatives.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement community relations strategies that align with the company's mission, values, and business objectives.
Build and maintain strong relationships with local officials, community organizations, educational institutions, economic development groups, and other key stakeholders.
Plan, coordinate, and execute community outreach events, open houses, facility tours, sponsorships, volunteer activities, and educational programs.
Manage the company's community investment initiatives, including charitable donations, sponsorship requests, grant programs, and volunteer engagement.
Collaborate with internal stakeholders to develop content highlighting community initiatives, partnerships, employee volunteerism, and company milestones for use across digital, social media, and other external communication channels.
Assist in maintaining the organization's social media presence by coordinating content, supporting campaigns, and helping ensure messaging aligns with established branding and communications strategies.
Monitor community engagement trends, public sentiment, and relevant social media activity to identify opportunities for increased outreach and engagement.
Represent the company at community meetings, civic events, industry functions, and public engagement activities.
Partner with Communications, Human Resources, Operations, Environmental, Health & Safety, and leadership teams to ensure consistent messaging and coordinated community engagement efforts.
Track community engagement, outreach, and digital engagement metrics to evaluate program effectiveness and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
Assist in developing presentations, informational materials, press materials, and communication content supporting community outreach initiatives.
Monitor local issues and stakeholder feedback to identify opportunities for proactive engagement and relationship building.
Support crisis communication and community response efforts when needed.
Ensure all community relations activities reflect the organization's values and commitment to responsible operations.