Communications
Within Communications jobs you will prepare issue papers on topics for awareness, research and summarize news reports or social media trends. You will also draft news releases, assist with preparations for public meetings or special events, answer questions from media representatives on agency initiatives, draft a variety of communication products and materials such as speeches, correspondence or web/social media content, and assist agency staff preparing for media interviews. You may expand to analyzing complex, sensitive issues and developing effective communication strategies to positively address them.
Industry Insights
A high-level pulse check on talent demand, projected growth, compensation, and how work typically happens across this pathway.
Estimated employment nationwide in 2024
Projected change in employment through 2034
Mid-career annual salary (nationwide median)
How the work is typically performed
May involve travel and overtime
Career Pathways & Progression
Position Responsibilities
Early-career communications professionals support senior staff by drafting social media posts, editing newsletters, researching media contacts, assisting with event planning, and monitoring press coverage. Positions often include internships, fellowships, or assistant roles in public affairs offices or marketing teams.
Job Types & Titles
- Communications Assistant
- Public Relations Intern
- Social Media Assistant
- Public Affairs Trainee
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, environmental studies or a related field.
Certifications
Not typically required; students may pursue the PRSA Certificate in Principles of Public Relations to strengthen credentials.
Experience
Internship or volunteer experience with campus organizations, student media, or environmental NGOs; strong writing and digital media skills.
Position Responsibilities
Technicians implement communication plans and create content. They write press releases and feature stories, manage web and social media channels, produce photos and videos, coordinate media requests, and support outreach campaigns.
Job Types & Titles
- Public Affairs Specialist
- Communications Specialist
- Content Creator
- Science Writer
- Web/Social Media Coordinator
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, or environmental communication.
Certifications
Optional microcredentials such as Coursera’s Environmental Project Management: Stakeholder Outreach or FutureLearn’s Climate Change Communication microcredential.
Experience
1-3 years in a communications role; demonstrated ability to write and edit, manage digital platforms, and coordinate with diverse stakeholders.
Position Responsibilities
Professionals plan and oversee communication strategies that align with organizational goals. They develop messaging, manage media relations, lead campaigns, supervise junior staff, liaise with scientists and leadership, handle crisis communication, and evaluate outreach effectiveness.
Job Types & Titles
- Communications Manager
- Public Relations Officer
- Outreach Coordinator
- Media Relations Manager
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
Bachelor’s degree with significant coursework in communications, journalism, or public affairs; a master’s degree in environmental communication or public relations is advantageous.
Certifications
Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) offered by the Public Relations Society of America or specialized certificates in environmental communication and strategic communication.
Experience
3-5 years of professional experience in communications; proven leadership, strategic planning, and project management skills.
Position Responsibilities
Senior leaders direct the overall communications strategy and serve as spokespeople for the organization. They oversee staff and budgets, advise executives on messaging, manage complex campaigns and partnerships, and ensure compliance with policies and laws.
Job Types & Titles
- Communications Director
- Public Affairs Director
- Chief Communications Officer
- Deputy Communications Chief
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
Master’s degree in communications, public administration, or environmental management, or substantial professional experience.
Certifications
APR or other advanced public relations credentials are highly regarded.
Experience
5-10+ years of progressive experience leading communications teams and developing high-level strategies; strong record of media engagement and stakeholder management.
Who Hires Communications Professionals?
Explore leading organizations in this field and discover career opportunities.
U.S. Forest Service (USFS)
National Park Service (NPS)
Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS)
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
The Nature Conservancy
Sierra Club
National Audubon Society
Conservation International
World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
Fenton Communications
Weber Shandwick
Education & Certification
Lay the foundation for your career with the right education and stand out with professional certifications.
Academic Programs
Professional Certifications
Words from the Field
Hear from professionals who have built successful careers in communications.
Resources & Tools
Curated guides, videos, and communities to help you level up quickly.
Video Library
Jobs in Communications
Still Deciding?
Use our tools and resources to explore communications and related fields.
Explore Your Options
Not sure where to start? Let us help you match your skills to your next career move, or get alerts for jobs that fit your goals.