Senior Communications Associate

Walbridge • Detroit, MI

3d • Onsite

About The Position

Walbridge is seeking a Senior Communications Associate to help drive internal and external communications and ensure unified, consistent messaging that strengthens and elevates the company’s brand. The role works closely with the marketing and communications team to support media relations, executive communications, and internal communications. It also serves as backup for issues and crisis communications and helps keep messaging aligned across multiple channels.

The position is based at Walbridge’s headquarters in Detroit, Michigan. The successful candidate must be available to work onsite at headquarters regularly. Occasional travel may be required for off-site events, jobsite visits, and meetings. The ideal candidate is proactive, works independently, and has a strong background in communications, public relations, or journalism.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Five or more years of experience in communications, public relations, or a related role.
• Demonstrated experience developing and executing internal and external communications strategies.
• Media relations experience, including pitching stories, managing press inquiries, and building relationships with journalists and industry contacts.
• Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills.
• Advanced proficiency with PR and media intelligence platforms for media monitoring, media list building, and outreach.
• Advanced proficiency using and optimizing press release distribution services such as PR Newswire, Cision, or Business Wire.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and SharePoint.
• Proficiency with generative AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini, Claude, or similar for research, drafting, content optimization, and productivity.
• Experience with Canva to design and produce polished, on-brand marketing and communications materials.
• Sound judgment and composure under pressure, including the ability to manage sensitive or time-critical communications with minimal oversight.
• Experience presenting to or advising senior leadership.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and mentor other team members as needed.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, including managing multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaborative approach and confidence working with the marketing and communications team, leadership, and cross-functional partners.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in the AEC or professional services industries.
• Familiarity with rebranding initiatives.
• Video content development or podcast/series production experience.

Responsibilities

• Build and manage relationships with journalists, editors, and industry contacts; proactively identify and pitch stories to secure earned media coverage.
• Draft, edit, and distribute press releases and media statements; manage media inquiries and interview logistics; and prepare key messages for spokespeople.
• Write executive communications, including talking points and briefing documents, and help prepare leadership for speaking engagements and public appearances.
• Manage internal communications planning and execution, including leadership messages, change communications, and content for internal channels.
• Serve as a backup for issues and crisis communications by drafting holding statements and helping coordinate rapid response alongside the Senior Corporate Communications Manager.
• Partner with the Senior Marketing Communications Associate and Social Media Manager to align messaging across press, social, internal, and marketing channels, and elevate media stories across platforms.
• Track and report on media coverage and communications initiative performance, using data to inform strategy and recommendations.
• Lead or support special projects, presentations, and other communications, marketing, special events, and initiatives.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

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