Communications External Affairs Manager

The Communications & External Affairs Manager at Democrats for Education Reform (DFER) is a strategic communications professional responsible for regional press, digital campaigns, and messaging support to promote education reform policies and narratives in priority states.

Location: Remote

Salary: $80,000 - $100,000

Responsibilities

• Draft press releases, statements, and campaign communications for regional audiences.
• Develop and execute social media strategies across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Substack, LinkedIn, and X.
• Build and maintain relationships with reporters, editors, and media outlets in priority regions.
• Serve as a regional spokesperson and monitor media narratives.
• Plan and execute digital campaigns in collaboration with the National Director and Digital Manager.
• Create and review social media content, including copy and creative briefs.
• Shape paid digital strategies and analyze performance metrics.
• Support messaging and political strategy development, including rapid-response operations.
• Collaborate with cross-team partners to align press and digital efforts.

Requirements

• 4+ years of experience in press, media relations, or public affairs, preferably in political campaigns, government, or advocacy.
• Exceptional writing skills with the ability to adapt tone and voice quickly.
• Strong political acumen, especially in center-left environments.
• Hands-on experience with digital and social media campaign planning and execution.
• Existing relationships with media and political figures in priority states are a plus.
• Interest or familiarity with K–12 education policy and a commitment to educational equity.
• Ability to operate effectively under tight timelines and in dynamic environments.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work across teams and independently.
• Knowledge of compliance regulations for 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and PAC activities or willingness to learn.

Benefits

• Health, vision, and dental coverage.
• Cell phone and internet reimbursement.
• Flexible spending plan.
• Life insurance.
• Short- and long-term disability insurance.
• 401K plan with a match.
• Paid family leave.
• Paid time off including vacation, sick leave, holidays.

Additional Information

• Position is full-time, exempt, with a 20% travel requirement.
• Start date is ASAP.
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
• DFER encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, including women, people of color, people with disabilities, immigrants, refugees, and LGBTQ individuals.