Senior Communications Specialist, Human and Community Development

American Institutes for Research•Sacramento, CA

14h•Hybrid

About The Position

AIR is seeking a Senior Communications Specialist to join the Human and Community Development program to lead project teams dedicated to effectively communicating messages that promote healthy, thriving communities. The Senior Communications Specialist will oversee public health communications projects and tasks in collaboration with clients including federal, state, and local government agencies. This role is delivery-focused, translating public health and scientific information into clear, accurate, and accessible communications products. Projects will span communications planning, implementation and evaluation as well as the provision of communications technical assistance to clients and the field. The Senior Communications Specialist will join AIR’s Human and Community Development Program, which generates evidence-informed solutions and fosters cross-sector collaboration in justice, child and youth development, family well-being, and community health to facilitate safe, healthy, informed, and thriving communities and improve the systems that serve them. Candidates hired for the position may work remotely within the United States (U.S.) or from one of our U.S. office locations. This does not include U.S. territories. Founded in 1946 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, the American Institutes for Research (AIR) is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit organization that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance to address some of the most pressing challenges in the United States and globally. We generate evidence and apply data-driven solutions that expand opportunities and improve lives for all.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field
8+ years of experience in strategic communications
Proven experience managing communications for external clients and leading multi-channel campaigns
Advanced project management skills, including budgeting, scheduling, and team coordination
Excellent time management skills and ability to handle multiple projects involving numerous changes simultaneously
Exceptional writing and editing skills across technical, creative, and promotional formats
Expertise in social media strategy, analytics, and platform management
Proficiency in tools such as Google Analytics, Drupal, and design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite)
Strong leadership and stakeholder engagement abilities
Experience with business development strategy and proposal development
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred
Experience in a shared services or consulting environment is preferred

Responsibilities

Lead the development and execution of strategic communications plans that align with client goals and AIR’s mission.
Oversee the creation and dissemination of high-quality content across digital platforms, publications, and media outlets.
Guide messaging strategy and editorial direction for complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives.
Manage cross-functional teams and workflows to ensure timely delivery of communications products.
Conduct audience research and apply insights to optimize engagement and accessibility.
Analyze performance metrics across channels (e.g., social media, web, email) and use data to refine strategies.
Serve as a senior advisor to clients and internal teams on communications best practices, branding, and outreach.
Lead proposal development efforts related to communications strategy, budgeting, and staffing.
Ensure compliance with accessibility standards and AIR’s style and brand guidelines.
Mentor junior communications staff and contribute to professional development initiatives.