Communications Specialist, Education Systems & Policy

American Institutes for Research (AIR) is seeking a Communications Specialist to develop and implement strategic communications initiatives for its Education Systems & Policy program. The role translates complex research and technical content into accessible products, leads dissemination campaigns, advises project teams and clients, and coordinates communications planning and delivery.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and implementation of strategic communications and dissemination plans that advance project goals and increase the visibility and impact of AIR's education work
• Serve as a trusted communications advisor to education project teams and clients, providing guidance on messaging, audience engagement, and outreach strategies
• Translate complex research, policy, and technical content into clear, accessible, and audience-centered communications products including infographics, videos, and short briefs
• Lead integrated communications campaigns and dissemination activities across digital, social, web, multimedia, and event platforms
• Oversee editorial planning, content development, and communications workflows to ensure high-quality, accessible deliverables
• Analyze communications metrics and audience data to assess performance and recommend strategies for continuous improvement
• Coordinate communications activities across multidisciplinary teams and manage multiple project priorities simultaneously
• Contribute to business development efforts, including proposal development, communications planning, and strategic growth initiatives

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 5 years of experience in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Public Policy, or a related field; or a Master's degree with a minimum of 4 years of experience in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Public Policy, or a related field
• Experience supporting external clients, managing small teams, and working in a shared services model
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically and align communications approaches with organizational, client, and project objectives
• Knowledge of dissemination and communication strategies that promote awareness, understanding, and use of research and evidence-based practices
• Strong consulting and relationship-management skills, including experience working with diverse stakeholders and client-facing teams
• Excellent writing, editing, and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and effectively to varied audiences
• Strong analytical skills and experience using audience, web, and communications performance data to inform planning
• Excellent project management and organizational skills, including managing competing priorities in fast-paced environments
• Proficiency with digital communications platforms, content management systems, analytics tools, and accessible communications technologies used to create, disseminate, and evaluate communications products
• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis
• Employment-based visa sponsorship (including H-1B sponsorship) is not available for this position