Strategic Communications Project Manager

August 23, 2023 11:45 AM | Dina Storz (Administrator)

About Us

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists. That's why we believe diversity is our greatest strength. HDR is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and an affirmative action employer.

Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story'

We believe that the way we work can add meaning and value to the world. That ideas inspire positive change. That coloring outside the lines can illuminate fresh perspectives. And that small details yield important realizations. Above all, we believe that collaboration is the best way forward.

HDR is looking for a Strategic Communications Project Manager to join our team in Charleston, SC. The Strategic Communications Project Manager will develop, execute, and manage communication and outreach activities on a variety of infrastructure projects. They must be passionate about community engagement, love to collaborate, and have a habit of thinking outside the box as a member of a high-performing team. They must also:

  • be a forward-thinking person who is comfortable working on multi-disciplinary teams and collaborating effectively with colleagues in both content and technical development.
  • have a deep understanding of NEPA and how infrastructure projects are developed under these guidelines.
  • not be afraid of leading and facilitating contentious public meetings, public hearings, open houses and other meetings with the public, clients and other project stakeholders.
  • be a great writer, skilled at defining and articulating a message.
  • be a storyteller.
  • be exceptionally organized and highly driven with the ability to manage several projects and meet deadlines.
  • have a record of accomplishment, creating and implementing communications plans that include target audience strategies, marketing and advertising plans, event planning, and collateral material development and implementation.
  • have a demonstrated track record of successfully managing projects, including preparing and monitoring scope and budget, preparing and implementing schedule, and coordinating with team members to deliver successful projects.
  • be a highly creative person who understands the importance of clear communication across multiple channels and mediums.
  • be a lifelong learner who is constantly researching new technologies and trends, pushing clients and the team to innovate.
  • be a self-starter who thrives and adapts in fast-paced environments.

On a day-to-day basis, the Strategic Communications Project Manager will be expected to:

  • lead the development of scope, schedule and budget for tasks and standalone projects.
  • interface with client and/or client-facing teams to coordinate delivery of successful projects.
  • lead communications strategy development for planning, design and construction projects.
  • lead campaign development activities including target audience analysis, branding, messaging, and market research.
  • direct customer-facing communication in a variety of mediums including social, print, video and web.
  • lead concept development, writing and editing of collateral materials such as surveys, newsletters, websites, handouts, videos, advertisements, press releases and public notices.
  • coordinate with creative disciplines including graphic design, web development and social media to maintain consistency of brand, saturation of messaging, and user experience.

Required Qualifications

  • Associate's degree in a closely related field
  • Minimum 5 years related experience in communications, public relations, public involvement and/or community engagement
  • Deep knowledge of communications plans and campaigns for public involvement, stakeholder engagement and public relations
  • Proven ability to develop compelling stories that strengthen messaging and engagement strategies for a program, initiative or project
  • Strong project management skills
  • Commitment to a rigorous quality control process
  • Willingness to travel
  • Experience collaborating with graphic designers, web developers and social media strategists to ensure cohesive message and user experience
  • Experience writing for multiple mediums including social, print, audio/video, and web
  • Client service-oriented personality with previous consulting experience
  • Self-starter, with the ability to work independently or in a team environment
  • Experience leading social media campaigns
  • Working knowledge of local, state and federal requirements for public involvement
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

Preferred Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing or relevant field
  • Previous work experience in the infrastructure industry
  • 6 years of experience
  • Experience or knowledge in community advocacy, NEPA, CEQA and infrastructure projects is a plus
  • Local candidates are preferred

Why HDR

At HDR, we know work isn't only about who you work for it's also about what you do and how you do it. Led by the strength of our values and a culture shaped by employee ownership, we network with each other, build on each other's contributions, and collaborate together to make great things possible. When you join HDR, we give you license to do the same. We help you take charge of your career, giving you multiple growth opportunities along the way.  



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