Staff External Communications Manager

About the Role

Aurora is seeking a Media Relations Manager to own our media presence in Texas, build and sustain relationships with key reporters and outlets, and shape how the public understands autonomous freight. This mid-senior-level role blends strategic thinking with hands-on execution, working closely with cross-functional partners—including executive leadership, operations, business development, and government relations—to develop announcements, drive news, and create standout media moments in the heart of our commercial operations.

Texas is central to Aurora's DNA, where our trucks are running today and where our story is being written in real time. As the primary point of contact for media in Texas, you will be embedded in Dallas, develop engaging on-site media experiences, and ensure Aurora tells a compelling, accurate, and proactive story.

Responsibilities

• Own Aurora's media strategy in Texas, developing and executing plans that drive proactive coverage and build long-term credibility with regional and national press.
• Cultivate and maintain a robust network of regional and national reporters covering transportation, technology, business, and policy.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for media visits in Texas, delivering an excellent reporter experience—responsive, informed, and ahead of the story.
• Partner with internal stakeholders across communications, government relations, marketing, operations, and executive leadership to align on announcements, messaging, and timing.
• Prepare and support Aurora spokespeople for media interviews, press events, and on-site engagements in Texas.
• Develop media materials including press releases, briefing documents, Q&As, and talking points tailored to specific audiences.

Requirements

• 7+ years of communications experience—either at an agency or in-house—with a track record of driving earned coverage in high-stakes environments.
• Deep familiarity and passion for media relations, with a network of established relationships with reporters covering business, technology, transportation, or related beats.
• Experience serving or acting as a company spokesperson, working with and media training C-level executives.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex, technical topics into clear and compelling narratives.
• Experience working cross-functionally to align on announcements and manage multi-stakeholder communications processes.

Qualifications

• Desirable: Experience in autonomous vehicles, transportation, logistics, or technology.
• Desirable: Captivated by self-driving technology and its potential to transform how goods move.
• Desirable: Crisis communications experience in a high-scrutiny industry.

Pay

The base salary range for this position is $115,000–$184,000 per year. Aurora’s pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, the successful candidate’s starting base pay will be determined based on factors including job-related skills, experience, qualifications, relevant education or training, and market conditions. The successful candidate will also be eligible for an annual bonus, equity compensation, and benefits.

Schedule

Aurora operates in a hybrid work environment where employees are in the office at least 3 days per week.

Benefits

Aurora offers a collaborative and inclusive culture, where employees are united by shared values and have access to professional growth opportunities. The role includes comprehensive benefits, equity compensation, and an annual bonus.