Associate

Steer PR; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Steer PR is seeking a full-time Associate to support client strategy, research, and execution across a diverse portfolio in national security, defense, foreign policy, and technology.

You will track policy and media developments, assist in content creation, coordinate deliverables, and help shape communications for Washington and beyond. Regular in-person collaboration at our Arlington area office is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in communications, political science, international affairs, public policy, or a related field.
• Prior experience in communications, on Capitol Hill, within the defense or national security community, or at a public affairs firm.
• Demonstrated interest and understanding of U.S. national security and foreign policy issues.
• Exceptional research, writing, and editing skills with an eye for detail and clarity.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities; able to manage competing priorities under tight deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Support the planning, coordination, and execution of client initiatives, meetings, and deliverables.
• Draft and edit a range of communications materials, including talking points, briefing memos, one-pagers, press materials, and digital content.
• Conduct research and analysis on policy, media, and industry trends relevant to client objectives.
• Track and summarize key developments—such as congressional hearings, public statements, and stakeholder engagements—impacting client priorities.
• Monitor traditional and digital media to identify opportunities and risks; develop and maintain targeted media lists using tools such as Muck Rack.
• Contribute to creative brainstorming sessions, campaign planning, and digital storytelling strategies.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment, ensuring quality and timeliness across client deliverables.

Skills

Research skills

Writing

Editing

Project management

Media monitoring

Policy understanding

Education

Bachelor's degree in communications, political science, international affairs, public policy, or related field

Tools

Muck Rack

Microsoft Office

Google Workspace

Canva

Job description

Based right outside of Washington, DC, Steer PR is a full-service boutique strategic communications and public affairs firm operating at the nexus of national security, policy, and business.

We help mission-driven organizations navigate complexity, build credibility, and communicate with purpose. Combining decades of experience in national security with public affairs, communications, and marketing expertise, we provide strategic counsel and hands‑on execution that strengthens brands, supports critical initiatives, and advances missions that serve America's and our allies interests at home and abroad.

Position Overview

Steer PR is seeking a full-time Associate to join our growing team. The ideal candidate is deeply curious about national security, defense, foreign policy, and technology—and passionate about translating complex issues into compelling, accessible narratives.

Associates play an integral role in supporting client strategy, research, and execution across a diverse portfolio of accounts. You’ll track key policy and media developments, support content creation, coordinate client deliverables, and help shape communications that advance our clients’ missions in Washington and beyond.

Candidates must be available for regular in-person collaboration at our Arlington area office.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the planning, coordination, and execution of client initiatives, meetings, and deliverables.
• Draft and edit a range of communications materials, including talking points, briefing memos, one‑pagers, press materials, and digital content.
• Conduct research and analysis on policy, media, and industry trends relevant to client objectives.
• Track and summarize key developments—such as congressional hearings, public statements, and stakeholder engagements—impacting client priorities.
• Monitor traditional and digital media to identify opportunities and risks; develop and maintain targeted media lists using tools such as Muck Rack.
• Contribute to creative brainstorming sessions, campaign planning, and digital storytelling strategies.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast‑paced environment, ensuring quality and timeliness across client deliverables.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in communications, political science, international affairs, public policy, or a related field.
• Prior experience working or interning in communications, on Capitol Hill, within the defense or national security community, or at a public affairs firm.
• Demonstrated interest and understanding of U.S. national security and foreign policy issues.
• Exceptional research, writing, and editing skills with an eye for detail and clarity.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities; able to manage competing priorities under tight deadlines.
• Proficiency in digital communications tools, including social media platforms, Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Canva, and media monitoring platforms.
• A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset, with the ability to anticipate client needs and work collaboratively in a high-performing team.
• A commitment to integrity, discretion, and professionalism in all client engagements.