Associate Director, Communications and Public Relations

We are seeking an entrepreneurial, high-autonomy Associate Director of Communications & Public Relations to serve as the strategic architect and hands-on leader of our external and internal messaging. This isn't a "maintenance" role — we are looking for a builder ready to take full ownership of our existing PR and communications framework, evaluate what’s working, and elevate it into a best-in-class program. You will have the strategic latitude to define our narrative, cultivate high-impact media relationships, and safeguard our brand reputation.

As the program scales and proves its impact, you will have the mandate and budget to eventually build out your own team, starting with hiring and mentoring direct reports. This role reports directly to the SVP, Head of Investor Relations and Public Affairs and offers a clear runway for organizational influence and long-term career progression.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute internal and external communications strategies that support business objectives and corporate priorities
• Partner with executive leadership to develop messaging, presentations, speeches, talking points, and corporate announcements
• Lead media relations activities, including press releases, media inquiries, and proactive engagement with key media outlets
• Develop communication plans supporting major business initiatives, employee engagement efforts, recruiting campaigns, and community outreach
• Manage corporate communication channels, including the website, intranet, newsletters, social media, and other digital platforms
• Collaborate with Human Resources, Investor Relations, Government Relations, Legal, Operations, and other business partners to ensure consistent, accurate messaging
• Support crisis and executive communications while monitoring media coverage and identifying opportunities to strengthen the company's reputation
• Measure communication effectiveness and recommend continuous improvements to maximize engagement and impact

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field
• 8+ years of progressive experience in corporate communications, public relations, strategic communications, or a related discipline
• Demonstrated experience developing and executing internal and external communications strategies, including media relations, executive communications, and employee communications
• Exceptional written, verbal, presentation, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with employees, leaders, media, and external stakeholders
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize competing deadlines, and collaborate effectively across cross-functional teams

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Business Administration, or a related field
• Experience in the energy, nuclear, manufacturing, government contracting, or other highly regulated industries
• Experience supporting executive leadership with strategic communications, crisis communications, and reputation management initiatives
• Experience collaborating with Government Relations, Investor Relations, Legal, and Human Resources to develop integrated communications strategies

Pay

Estimated Starting Base Salary Range: $175,000–$205,000. This position is bonus eligible. Compensation above the range may be considered for candidates with exceptional qualifications and directly relevant experience.

Benefits

• 401(k) savings plan with immediate eligibility, a generous company match of up to 7% when you contribute 6%, and immediate 100% vesting
• Paid vacation
• Paid parental leave
• Twelve paid holidays each year
• Company-paid life insurance for up to one times your salary, with the option to purchase additional insurance for yourself and your dependents
• Company-subsidized health insurance including PPO, HDHP, as well as dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage
• Tax savings accounts: Health Savings Accounts, Flexible Spending Account, Limited Purposes FSA, and Flexible Dependent Care
• Company-paid long- and short-term disability insurance
• Tuition reimbursement for courses taken at an accredited college or university when certain criteria are met
• Employer-paid employee assistance program available to support both employees and members of their household
• Free parking

This position requires a pre-employment background check and drug test, as well as vetting to meet federal access requirements for export-controlled information and Unclassified Controlled Nuclear Information.