Communications Manager (National Center for Infrastructure Transformation - NCIT)

Job Title

Communications Manager (National Center for Infrastructure Transformation - NCIT)

Agency

Prairie View A&M University

Department

Department of Civil Engineering

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

Prairie View, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

The salary is determined in accordance with the University's compensation structure and will be commensurate with the candidates' education and experience, within the assigned salary range for this position.

The Communications Manager will work under the supervision of the Director of the National Center for Infrastructure Transformation (NCIT). The individual will be responsible for leading the development and implementation of comprehensive and integrated communication strategies that align with NCIT's vision, mission, and the strategic goals of the U.S Department of Transportation. This role combines high-level strategic communication planning with hands-on multimedia content creation, media relations, internal communications, and stakeholder engagement. This position demands a high degree of independence, discretion, and critical thinking.

This position is funded by a grant or restricted funds. Continued employment is contingent on the renewal of grant or restricted funding.

Responsibilities

• Develops and executes integrated communication strategies; aligns messaging with NCIT and US Department of Transportation priorities; coordinates with directors and partner universities. Writes, edits, and supervises production of articles, newsletters, annual reports, and press releases. Ensures clarity, tone, and branding consistency across all media.
• Builds and maintains media partnerships; handles interviews, press kits, and media inquiries; drafts press releases; supports federal and state visibility campaigns.
• Oversees design of visual materials - reports, brochures, infographics, social graphics, and branding templates. Manages internal/external designers as needed.
• Oversees NCIT's website and social platforms; ensures regular updates, analytics tracking, and content alignment with NCIT's mission. Supervises the multimedia journalist's online posting cadence.
• Facilitates information flow between NCIT leadership, university partners, and project teams.
• Collaborates with event planners to design communication plans for NCIT workshops, symposia, and conferences. Develops and executes promotional campaigns and collateral.
• Engages with stakeholders and academic partners to communicate NCIT's value, collect impact stories, and align with external communication expectations.
• Tracks communication performance, compiles engagement metrics, prepares quarterly visibility reports for NCIT leadership and US Department of Transportation deliverables.
• Manages communication project timelines, budgets, and equipment inventory. Provides direction to communication assistants or interns.
• Work collaboratively with the University's Office of Marketing and Communications to align and support strategic communications and marketing efforts that enhance institutional awareness and engagement.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Communications or related field.
• Five years of related experience including two years of related supervisory experience.

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet applications.
• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skill.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, or a related field.
• More than 5 years of experience in a communications role, preferably within a research, academic, or government organization.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and executing strategic communication plans.
• Experience with web design, photography, videography, and/or graphic design.
• Exceptional written and verbal (presentation) communication skills.
• Proficiency in digital communication tools and platforms.
• Strong organizational and project management abilities.
• Ability to translate complex technical information into accessible content.
• Experience with media relations, podcasting, writing blogs, and public speaking.
• Show a progression of demonstrated experience in developing and executing strategic communication plans.
• Familiarity with transportation infrastructure topics and research dissemination.
• Experience in crisis communication and reputation management.
• Knowledge of federal research funding and reporting requirements.

Job Posting Close Date

04/30/2026

Required Attachments

• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Cover Letter

Application Submission Guidelines

All applicants are required to apply via our Career Site on or before the closing date indicated on the job posting. Applicant inquiries received via email and websites such as Indeed, HigherEdJobs, etc. will not be considered unless the individual has applied to the available position via the PVAMU Career site.

The required documents listed in the above "Required Attachments" section must be attached to the application prior to the job closing date indicated to ensure full consideration for the application submitted. Please contact the Office of Human Resource on or before the closing date indicated above at 936-261-1730 or jobs@pvamu.edu should you need assistance with the online application process.

Background Check Requirements

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution's verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution's procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.