Strategic Communications & Media Relations Specialist

careers-cfr; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 63,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is seeking a Communications Specialist to support earned media for CFR’s Studies department, drafting press releases, advisories, and pitches. You’ll help maintain media lists and track mentions, and contribute to event staffing and briefings from CFR’s Washington, DC office.

Based in DC with on-site involvement required three days a week (anchor days Tue–Thu); effective Sept 14, 2026, onsite four days weekly. Remote scheduling may change.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred, or equivalent.
• At least 2 years in media relations, communications, media industry, or journalism.
• Experience with monitoring databases and engagement tools (e.g., Muck Rack, Cision/PR Newswire, Meltwater).
• Experience with CRMs and ESPs.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute earned media strategies for CFR Studies.
• Draft and edit news releases and media advisories.
• Develop resource materials for journalists and editors.
• Maintain press distribution lists and media mentions.
• Staff DC-based events and support virtual briefings.
• Monitor media inquiries and assist with intern recruitment.

Skills

Media relations

Press writing

Deadline-driven

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree preferred, or equivalent

Tools

Muck Rack

Cision/PR Newswire

Meltwater

CRMs

ESPs

Job description

The Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) is seeking a Communications Specialist to support earned media for CFR’s Studies department, drafting press releases, advisories, and pitches. You’ll help maintain media lists and track mentions, and contribute to event staffing and briefings from CFR’s Washington, DC office.

Based in DC with on-site involvement required three days a week (anchor days Tue–Thu); effective Sept 14, 2026, onsite four days weekly. Remote scheduling may change.