Senior Public Information Specialist

Job Description Overview

AtkinsRéalis is seeking a Senior Public Information Specialist to join our Public Outreach Group in Richmond, VA. In this role, you will lead and manage public outreach initiatives for both conventional and unconventional projects, serving as a trusted advisor to clients and project teams. You will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing strategic public engagement programs that foster stakeholder awareness, build community relationships, and support project objectives.

The Senior Public Information Specialist will oversee outreach activities, provide guidance to public engagement teams, and ensure the delivery of high-quality communications and stakeholder engagement strategies. This position may also supervise and mentor junior staff, supporting their professional development while providing quality assurance and oversight of project deliverables. The ideal candidate is a collaborative leader with strong communication, stakeholder engagement, and project management skills, as well as a proven ability to navigate complex public-facing initiatives and build positive relationships with diverse audiences.

• Your role Manages the public outreach efforts of major projects.
• Coordinates staff and subconsultants to ensure project office operates according to the contract with client.
• Identifies public outreach project goals and makes recommendations to the client of the best means to address the needs.
• Manages direct relationship with the client regarding public outreach.
• Coordinates and participates in government briefings and project presentations to external groups.
• Under the direction of the supervisor, monitors all public outreach expenses for the project.
• Organizes/manages project information files and coordinates the interchange of project outreach information with the client and among project team members.
• Develops and conducts online and in-person training opportunities, workshops for clients tailored to client needs and requirements.
• Produces and coordinates project publications, brochures, newsletters, web information and materials, social media; meets with the client to determine key messages and themes.
• Develops and implements individual project strategies, and/or, Public Outreach Plans in coordination with the client.
• Produces and distributes daily, weekly and monthly reports on public outreach efforts.
• May supervise the work of support staff and less experienced professionals, as assigned.
• Performs such other duties determined necessary by the supervisor.
• Analyzes project area demographics to determine best outreach approaches.
• Plans and executes stakeholder and public meetings, hearings, and other small group meetings.

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, English, Public Relations, or a related field from an accredited four-year college or university.
• Eleven (11) or more years of progressive professional experience in public relations, public outreach, community engagement, or related disciplines.
• Demonstrated knowledge of public relations, public involvement, stakeholder engagement, and media relations strategies and best practices.
• Proven ability to develop, write, and oversee the design and production of promotional, educational, and informational materials.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with media representatives, employees, management, community members, and appointed or elected officials.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to deliver persuasive presentations to diverse audiences.
• Strong active listening skills and the ability to respond effectively and professionally to citizens, stakeholders, and customers on a wide range of issues.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and other relevant computer software.
• Experience with graphic design, publishing, GIS applications, website management, and social media platforms and strategies preferred.
• Knowledge of instructional methods, training techniques, and adult…