Media Relations Associate

Reports to: Vice President, Communications

Staff reporting to this position: None

Department: Communications

Position classification: Exempt, full time; Union – Level 3

Minimum compensation: $55,000

Work site: Hybrid (on-site two days per week, Washington, D.C., office)

Summary

American Progress has an immediate opening for a Media Relations Associate on the Press team. The Associate will have two distinct portfolios of work supporting American Progress’ mission to improve the lives of all Americans through bold, progressive ideas, as well as strong leadership and concerted action, with the aim of not only changing the conversation, but changing the country.

This hire will be part of a dynamic Communications department that supports work across American Progress’ five crosscutting priorities:

• Building an economy for all
• Restoring social trust in democracy
• Advancing racial equity and justice
• Tackling climate change and environmental injustice
• Strengthening health

Responsibilities:

About 75 percent of the Associate’s time will be spent helping American Progress experts reach targeted audiences through media outreach, including assisting Press team members with research, writing, and editing materials for a media audience.

About 25 percent of the Associate’s time will be spent helping the team with administrative duties, including assisting with scheduling, coordinating emails, and assisting with the organization’s daily clips email.

Media relations and research: 75 percent

• Work under the direction of the Vice President of Communications and other members of the Press team to coordinate outreach to the press.
• Assist in researching, drafting, and editing press releases, advisories, op-eds, pitches, social media posts, talking points, briefing memos, and other projects for a media audience.
• Build and maintain press lists for the team.
• Assist in managing and responding to press inquiries.
• Assist in longer-term institutional and research projects as needed.

Administrative: 25 percent

• Coordinate meetings, events, and agendas.
• Monitor the news and help compile daily press clips.
• Provide additional administrative capacity to support the team’s work as assigned.

Requirements and qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience.
• At least two years of experience in communications, media relations, government, nonprofit work, or a related field.
• Excellent writing and editing skills, a desire and willingness to stay on top of the daily news cycle, and an eye for great content.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well on a team.
• Ability to multitask, initiate new projects, meet tight deadlines, and work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Creative and entrepreneurial with strong problem-solving skills.
• Knowledge of key stakeholders and thought leaders in progressive policy and politics.
• Possession of good news and editorial judgment.
• Strong organizational skills and close attention to detail.
• Familiarity with WordPress, Cision, the AP Stylebook, and Adobe Audition or other audio software is a plus.
• Commitment to American Progress’ mission and goals.

American Progress offers full and competitive benefit packages. Candidates from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by IFPTE Local 70 and has a minimum salary of $55,000.

American Progress’ hybrid work policy is posted on our Jobs page. Please visit this page for updates. Any changes to this policy will also be communicated at the time of hire.