Public Relations Associate (IT/Cyber)

Ripple Effect•Arlington, VA

50d•$64,281 - $88,708•Hybrid

About The Position

Ripple Effect is seeking a Public Relations Associate (IT/Cyber) to support the execution of public affairs and communications initiatives, including strategic communications planning, media relations, campaign execution, and stakeholder engagement. This role supports technology- and cyber-focused programs and requires the ability to translate complex topics into clear, accessible messaging for diverse audiences.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Public Relations, Communications, or a related field
Minimum of three (3) years of experience planning and executing comprehensive public relations campaigns, including strategic direction, message development, and implementation
Ability to obtain and maintain a DHS Fitness Determination
Proven experience collaborating with clients, leadership, and cross‑functional teams to execute public relations initiatives from concept through delivery
Experience partnering with internal teams and external stakeholders to coordinate PR projects and ensure alignment with communication objectives
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience developing messaging, press materials, and campaign content
Experience reviewing communications products for quality, consistency, and alignment with organizational standards
High degree of professionalism, judgment, and discretion when handling sensitive or high‑visibility communications
Intermediate experience with Microsoft Office productivity software and collaboration tools such as Microsoft Teams and SharePoint
Must be a U.S. citizen to be eligible for this role

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting IT, cybersecurity, technology modernization, or digital programs
Background working in federal, contractor, or highly regulated environments
Experience coordinating campaigns that involve media outreach, events, or multi‑channel communications
Ability to translate complex or technical subject matter into clear, compelling messages for varied audiences
Strong client‑facing skills with experience advising stakeholders on messaging and campaign approaches

Responsibilities

Contribute to public affairs initiatives by developing issue-based content, supporting outreach campaigns, and assisting with stakeholder engagement activities.
Provide input into communications strategies and execute tasks under the direction of senior team members.
Assist with media outreach efforts, draft press materials, and support preparation for interviews and briefings.
Monitor media coverage and compile summaries to help inform messaging and track outcomes.
Communicate clearly and professionally in both internal and external settings.
Support organizational representation at events, conferences, and engagements, contributing to consistent and effective messaging.
Help manage timelines across multiple public relations tasks and campaigns, ensuring deliverables such as press releases, media outreach, and communications materials are completed on schedule.
Escalate risks or delays as needed.
Maintain organized and up-to-date documentation of PR activities, including press materials, media lists, campaign trackers, and partnership records to support team coordination and knowledge sharing.
Identify and address routine communications challenges, seeking guidance for more complex issues.
Contribute ideas to improve processes, tools, and campaign effectiveness, and incorporate feedback to strengthen performance.