Communications Specialist

JOB SUMMARY:  

This position, located in Washington, DC, assists in communicating AOPA’s advocacy efforts through strategic and creative channels in order to ensure AOPA members, the aviation community at large, and the general public are aware of AOPA’s role, influence, and effectiveness in advocating for aircraft owners and pilots. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:  

Collaborate and Coordinate with both Government Affairs and Communications teams. 

Write and coordinate approval of articles and social posts, relating to AOPA’s advocacy initiatives. 

Develop network with key aviation/transportation outlets and reporters in order to increase AOPA advocacy profile and thought leadership. 

Assist with writing, editing, proofing, advocacy articles and social posts. 

Government Affairs department liaison to Social team for content. 

**Although this job description aims to capture the majority of the position duties, other duties may be assigned based on business and departmental needs. 

REQUIRED JOB QUALIFICATIONS:    

Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline (Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Political Science, etc.) 

Demonstrated ability to draft and edit written materials for public audiences 

Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills 

Positive demeanor 

At least 2 years' experience in corporate communications, public relations, journalism 

Excellent project and time management skills, with emphasis on organization and prioritization 

Ability to work independently and collaboratively and handle time-sensitive requests 

Highly proficient with a variety of platforms including Office 365 (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive) 

Aviation-related experience or demonstrated interest in the field  

PREFERRED JOB QUALIFICATIONS:  

Private Pilot Certificate 

WORKING CONDITIONS:  

This position works in an office setting located in the heart of D.C. 

Typical working hours are 8:30 am – 5 pm, Monday through Friday, with a one-hour lunch break.  

Generally, a climate-controlled environment with occasional exposure to outdoor weather conditions when attending aviation related events, including exposure to higher altitudes and confined spaces if in a general aviation aircraft. 

This position may require occasional travel in and around the D.C. area (The Hill) and to the Frederick, MD headquarters, subject to the direction/approval of the SVP of Government Affairs and Advocacy. Travel is generally by automobile, foot, or rail.   

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:  

The physical demands of this position are typical of a standard office environment. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will regularly be required to: 

Sit for extended periods while working at a computer or attending meetings. 

Use hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment. 

Communicate effectively via email, phone, and in-person, which requires clear speech, hearing, and vision. 

Occasionally lift or move items weighing up to 15 pounds, such as boxes of materials or equipment. 

Occasionally stand, walk, and reach with hands and arms during the course of normal office activities. 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:  

 This position is located at AOPA’s Washington, D.C. office.    

The salary range for this position is: $65,000 - $80,000, depending on education and experience.  

BENEFIT INFORMATION:  

Flight Training (earn your Private Pilot License for free) & Annual Flight Proficiency Program (so you can keep flying and remain proficient)  

Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance is available for employees and their dependents the 1st of the month following their start date  

Flexible Spending Plans  

Health Savings Plan with employer contribution (for eligible participants)  

401(k) Retirement Plan with a company match, and annual discretionary supplemental employer contribution  

Company paid Short and Long-term Disability Insurance  

Company paid Life Insurance and AD&D insurance with the option to buy up   

Paid Time Off (PTO): 17 days accrued during first year (accruals increase based on tenure)  

Paid Holidays: 12 holidays  

Personal days: 3 (prorated based on hire date)  

Volunteer day: 1 (prorated based on hire date)   

Work From Home Fridays  

Paid Parental Leave   

AOPA Membership  

Employee Assistance Program  

Wellness Program (earn medical insurance premium discounts)  

Gym Reimbursement Program  

Supplemental insurance options (critical illness, accident, hospital indemnity)  

Tuition Reimbursement Program   

Discount on AOPA swag  

Business casual dress code