Sr External Communications Specialist

DPR Construction•San Diego, CA

1d•$90,000 - $120,000

About The Position

At DPR, roles and responsibilities are more than describing a job title—they are a commitment to building great things together. The job description(s) below defines core responsibilities and the scope of the role and is a starting point. Every employee is expected to lead from where they are, take ownership of outcomes, and always act in the best interest of the team, customer, project and organization. As a purpose-driven organization on a journey to be most admired, we rely on trust, shared leadership, open communication, disciplined action and a deep respect for the individual to drive exceptional performance. Success is not just about what we build, but who we build and how we build it: with integrity, enjoyment, uniqueness and an ever-forward mindset. Job Summary: Develops and executes external communications plans that enhance organizational reputation and visibility. Leads the creation of advanced content and storytelling across multiple channels, applying expert writing and editing skills to ensure alignment with brand and business objectives. Partners with internal teams to identify and promote key stories, initiatives, and thought leadership opportunities. Provides guidance to peers and contributes to process improvements and best practices within the communications function.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, or a related field, or equivalent experience required.
5–7 years of experience in communications, journalism, or a related field required.

Nice To Haves

APR or CMP certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Develops and implements communications plans for specific initiatives, campaigns, or projects in collaboration with business and Communications + Brand partners.
Leads drafting and editing of complex external materials, including executive messaging, feature stories, and press releases.
Cultivates and manages relationships with external media, industry partners, and community organizations to support earned media strategies.
Analyzes communication performance metrics and develops recommendations for improving message reach and engagement.
Mentors less experienced specialists, reviewing materials to ensure quality and adherence to organizational standards.
Coordinates cross-functional contributions to ensure integrated communication outcomes.
Ensures alignment of all messaging and materials with organizational strategy, values, and compliance requirements.
Partners with construction and marketing teams on project communications plans, proactively pitches stories, builds reporter relationships, and manages routine media inquiries.
Manages business journal surveys and award submissions recognizing employees and construction projects through business and trade publications.