The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials is currently hiring a Communications Manager, a full-time position located in our Washington, DC office.

Nature of Position:

The Communications Manager has the primary responsibility of planning and executing a proactive strategy in support of AASHTO’s mission, to raise public awareness of the association’s key messages and the critical role AASHTO and state DOTs play in shaping national transportation policy and delivering a safe, multimodal, and resilient transportation system for communities across the country. Such activities shall include, but are not limited to communications planning, coordinating media interviews, development of key messages and talking points; drafting news releases; and cultivation of news media and association contacts with the overarching goal of generating earned media.

Under the direction of the Director of Communications and Marketing, the Communications Manager develops and implements a public affairs and communications program that highlights the work of AASHTO and state DOTs at the national level. The incumbent works with the AASHTO leadership to assist and advise in the development and execution of communications plans for specific policy issues and events. Additionally, the Communications Manager is responsible for executing the Daily Transportation Update, AASHTO’s weekly morning roundup of the top transportation news across the country.

The incumbent collaborates and serves as a resource to other Communications and Marketing division staff, particularly in the development of ideas for a variety of communication tools, presentations, and social media. In collaborating with the Marketing Manager, the Communications Manager provides support to write content for marketing projects as needed, and supports the execution of the annual America’s Transportation Awards program. 

The Communication Manager is also responsible for supporting AASHTO’s media relations activities. Specific responsibilities include the identification of potential video segments; writing and producing video scripts when needed; and serving as an instructor for media relations training for AASHTO members and annual meeting participants. Additionally, the Communications Manager will also assist state DOT communications staff through involvement in the AASHTO Committee on Communications (TransComm), serving as an advisor for media strategy and keeping state DOTs abreast of any national news stories or trends.

The Communications Manager may be called upon as needed to participate in a variety of different initiatives in support of the division’s goals, not all of which can be anticipated or planned for.

Position Requirements:

A successful candidate will have a minimum of eight years’ experience working in journalism and/or communications. Previous transportation industry experience and experience with association or non-profit work is desirable, but not required. A bachelor’s degree is required, preferably in journalism or communications, and a graduate degree in a related field is desirable.

The candidate must have excellent written and public speaking skills; the ability to conduct research and communicate effectively using social media; the ability to work under pressure, understand and break down complicated information; meet deadlines; assimilate information quickly, and work well with the public and coworkers. Demonstrated skills, knowledge and experience in the design and execution of communications activities are essential to this position. The incumbent must demonstrate evidence of professional growth and increasing responsibility.

How to Apply:

Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to recruiter@aashto.org by Friday, March 10, 2023.

Who We Are:

AASHTO is a nonprofit, nonpartisan association representing transportation departments in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. We represent all transportation modes including: air, highways, public transportation, active transportation, rail, and water. Our goal is to foster the development, operation, and maintenance of an integrated national transportation system that is safe and efficient for every individual. We strive to educate the public and key decision makers about the critical role that transportation plays in securing a good quality of life and sound economy for our nation.

The culture displayed at AASHTO is one of inclusiveness. AASHTO fosters a supportive working environment for staff and focuses on both the professional and personal successes of employees. Additionally, employees benefit from a collective workplace that genuinely cares about them and what they do.

Perks and Benefits:

This position would primarily report out of our Washington, DC office located in Metro Center. AASHTO offers employees hybrid work flexibilities and this role may be approved to work remotely up to 2-3 days per week.

Additionally, as a full-time employee, you are eligible for:

• A retirement plan with a highly competitive matching and contribution structure
• Comprehensive health insurance benefits
• A robust transit benefit
• Generous leave accrual
• Flexible work schedules and telework options

AASHTO is an equal opportunity employer. AASHTO has a COVID-vaccination policy in place which requires all employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19, unless they have an approved religious or medical accommodation.