External Communications Manager (III)

Openkrill; United States; Remote; USD 121,000 - 143,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work for CA-based candidates

Healthcare coverage (medical, dental,

401(k) retirement savings plan

Life and disability insurance

Employee assistance program

Legal support

Pet insurance and vendor discounts

Job summary

Openkrill is seeking an External Communications Manager (III) to lead strategic communications for a technology-focused organization in the United States. You will craft high-quality content, shape narratives around AI and emerging tech, and work with cross-functional teams to amplify the company’s external presence.

The role emphasizes building media relationships with AI reporters and tech journalists, translating complex tech concepts into clear stories, and delivering measurable

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, or a related field; equivalent experience may substitute for the degree.

Responsibilities

• Develop external communications content (blog posts, social updates, talking points, media briefs).
• Develop and execute long-term communications plans aligned with business goals.
• Collaborate with engineering, product, and leadership to craft AI/tech stories.
• Build relationships with AI reporters, technology journalists, and industry influencers.

Skills

External communications

Media relations

Content development

Strategic planning

Storytelling

Writing

Cross-functional collaboration

Public speaking

Education

Bachelors in Communications/Journalism or related field

Job description

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, which manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for an External Communications Manager (III) based in the United States.

The External Communications Manager (III) will drive strategic communications initiatives for a leading organization in the technology sector, helping shape compelling stories and strengthen its external presence. This role focuses on developing high-quality content that supports business objectives and delivers measurable communications outcomes. Working closely with engineering, product, and cross-functional leadership teams, the successful candidate will identify and communicate impactful developments in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. The position also involves building strong relationships with technology journalists, AI reporters, and industry influencers to expand visibility and engagement. This is an opportunity for an experienced communications professional to contribute to a fast-paced, innovation-driven environment. The role is offered on a six-month contract, with remote work available for candidates based in California.

Accountabilities

• Develop External Communications Content: Lead the creation and delivery of high-quality content, including blog posts, social media updates, talking points, and media briefing materials.
• Drive Strategic Communications Planning: Develop and execute long-term communications plans aligned with broader business goals, ensuring initiatives contribute to measurable outcomes.
• Collaborate Across Teams: Partner with engineering, product, and cross-functional leadership teams to identify, develop, and scale compelling stories about artificial intelligence and technological innovation.
• Build Media Relationships: Proactively cultivate and maintain relationships with AI reporters, technology journalists, and influential industry voices.
• Shape Technology Narratives: Translate complex technical concepts into clear, engaging, and accessible stories for external audiences.
• Manage Content Pipelines: Coordinate the development and flow of communications materials, ensuring content is relevant, timely, consistent, and aligned with strategic priorities.
• Support External Engagement: Help strengthen the organization's visibility and reputation through effective media engagement and targeted communications initiatives.
• Measure Communications Impact: Contribute to communications programs that demonstrate measurable results and support long-term strategic objectives.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, or a related field. An additional five or more years of relevant professional experience may substitute for the degree.
• Professional Experience: At least seven years of direct professional experience in technology communications.
• Technology Knowledge: Familiarity with artificial intelligence, machine learning, and autonomous driving technologies.
• Content Development Expertise: Demonstrated ability to create compelling external communications materials, including blog content, social media updates, talking points, and media briefings.
• Media Relations Skills: Experience building and maintaining relationships with journalists, reporters, and industry influencers.
• Strategic Communication: Ability to develop communications plans aligned with business priorities and deliver measurable outcomes.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with engineering, product, and leadership teams.
• Communication Skills: Excellent writing, storytelling, and communication abilities, including the capacity to explain complex technology topics clearly.
• Adaptability: Ability to manage competing priorities, work independently, and contribute effectively in a dynamic technology environment.
• Preferred Experience: Experience in a fast-paced technology startup environment is beneficial.
• Additional Advantage: Familiarity with the autonomous vehicle industry and its regulatory landscape is a plus.
• Location Requirement: Candidates must be based in California to meet the stated remote-work eligibility for this position.

Benefits

• Hourly Compensation: $88.93–$103.90 per hour, with the posting also citing a rounded range of $88–$103 per hour.
• Contract Duration: Six-month contract.
• Work Arrangement: Remote work for eligible candidates based in California.
• Healthcare Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees.
• Supplemental Insurance: Access to accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity coverage.
• Retirement Savings: 401(k) retirement savings plan.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Coverage options for eligible employees.
• Employee Assistance Program: Access to employee support resources.
• Additional Perks: Legal support, pet insurance, and discounts with preferred vendors. Auto and home insurance options may also be available under the listed benefits package.
• Equal Opportunity and Accessibility: Commitment to equal employment opportunity and reasonable accommodations throughout the application and interview process.