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Communications Analyst Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Ability to effectively demonstrate and communicate analytical products to both technical and non-technical audiences. * Experience interpreting data models and working with multiple data sources and ...

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Communications Analyst information

See Virginia salary details

$45.6K

$92.8K

$120K

How much do communications analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for communications analyst in Virginia is $92,791.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,300.00 and $104,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a communications analyst?

A Communications Analyst is a professional responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating communication strategies within an organization. They analyze internal and external communications, assess the effectiveness of messaging, and provide recommendations to improve clarity and engagement. Their duties often include monitoring media channels, preparing reports, and supporting public relations or marketing efforts. This role requires strong analytical, writing, and organizational skills.

What is a communications analyst?

A communications analyst is a skilled technician who works on electronic communication systems and computer networks. Your job duties as a communications analyst include monitoring information system networks, troubleshooting communications equipment, and determining the structure of a computer network system. To pursue a career as a communications analyst, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer information systems, or a related field, as well as experience working with LAN, WAN, intranet, and internet network environments. Additional qualifications include excellent analytical and critical thinking skills, along with industry-specific certifications to demonstrate expertise with software or hardware applications.

How does a communications analyst typically collaborate with different departments within an organization?

Communications Analysts often work closely with various departments such as marketing, public relations, and executive leadership to ensure messaging is consistent and aligned with organizational goals. They may facilitate cross-functional meetings, gather input on key initiatives, and translate technical or departmental information into clear communications for both internal and external audiences. This role requires strong interpersonal skills and the ability to adapt messaging for different stakeholders, making effective collaboration a core part of the daily workflow.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a communications analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Communications Analyst, you need strong analytical abilities, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and a relevant degree such as communications, public relations, or journalism. Proficiency with data analysis tools, content management systems, and digital analytics platforms like Google Analytics is typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, adaptability, and attention to detail help you effectively convey complex information and collaborate across teams. These skills ensure accurate data-driven insights, effective messaging, and the ability to support organizational communication strategies.

What is the difference between Communications Analyst vs Public Relations Specialist?

AspectCommunications AnalystPublic Relations Specialist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Communications, Marketing, or related field; certifications like APR (Accredited in Public Relations) are commonBachelor's in Communications, Public Relations, or related; certifications like APR are also common
Work EnvironmentCorporate, agency, or government settings focusing on internal/external communication analysisPublic-facing roles in media, agencies, or organizations managing brand reputation
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across various industries including corporate, tech, and government for communication strategyPrimarily in PR firms, corporate communications, and media relations

While both roles require strong communication skills and similar educational backgrounds, Communications Analysts focus on analyzing and improving communication strategies within organizations, whereas Public Relations Specialists primarily manage external image and media relations. The roles often overlap but differ in focus and daily responsibilities.

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Communications Analyst jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Communications Analyst job openings:

Infographic showing various Communications Analyst job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,791 per year, or $44.6 per hour.

Director, External & Financial Communications

Sunrise Senior Living

Mclean, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Why Join Sunrise Senior Living
At Sunrise Senior Living, we believe meaningful work starts with purpose. Our team members are passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of residents every day.
Sunrise Senior Living is seeking a Director of External Communications to lead corporate communications, media relations, thought leadership, and reputation management. This strategic leader will shape Sunrise's market narrative, strengthen brand awareness, position executives as industry authorities, and support strategic growth, business development, M&A, and investor communications.
Key Responsibilities
  • Support Development, Growth, Marketing Communications, and M&A initiatives with strategic messaging and external communications.
  • Develop and execute an integrated external communications and corporate communications strategy aligned with business and growth objectives.
  • Build compelling corporate narratives and messaging that differentiate Sunrise and establish category leadership.
  • Lead media relations, public relations, earned media, thought leadership, and executive positioning across business, industry, and financial media.
  • Build relationships with journalists, analysts, industry influencers, and key external stakeholders.
  • Lead crisis communications, issues management, reputation management, and rapid-response strategies in partnership with Legal and executive leadership.
  • Partner with Finance and senior leadership on financial and investor communications, acquisitions, corporate announcements, and market-moving initiatives.
  • Develop executive thought leadership, including op-eds, speaking opportunities, media appearances, and industry recognition.
  • Manage PR agencies, communications vendors, budgets, KPIs, and program performance.
  • Establish communications analytics and reporting to measure media coverage, brand perception, stakeholder engagement, investor sentiment, and ROI.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, Public Relations, or related field required.
  • 10+ years of progressive corporate communications, public relations, media relations, or strategic communications experience.
  • Experience with financial and investor communications and communicating complex business and financial information.
  • Demonstrated success developing external communications strategies and shaping corporate narratives.
  • Strong experience with media relations, thought leadership, crisis communications, executive communications, and reputation management.
  • Exceptional writing, editing, presentation, and executive communication skills.
  • Experience managing PR agencies, vendors, budgets, and strategic communications programs.
  • Strong analytical and business acumen with experience measuring communications effectiveness and ROI.
  • Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, highly visible corporate environment and influence senior executives.

Director, External & Financial Communications | Corporate Communications | Media Relations | PR
Pay Range:
175,013.33 - 218,766.66
Ready to take the next step and make a bigger impact than you ever imagined? As part of our team, you will help brighten the future for everyone at Sunrise and beyond. That is why we make it a priority to celebrate the unique ways you bring moments of togetherness and joy to everyone you serve. And when combined with the support, benefits, and growth opportunities we offer, the result is a career that PositivelyShines with everything you need to reach your goals - at work and in your life.
We also offer benefits and other compensation that include:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and Disability Plans
  • Retirement Savings Plans
  • Employee Assistant Program / Discount Program
  • Paid time off (PTO), sick time, and holiday pay
  • myFlexPay offered to get paid within hours of a shift
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • In addition to base compensation, Sunrise may offer discretionary and/or non-discretionary bonuses. The eligibility to receive such a bonus will depend on the employee's position, plan/program offered by Sunrise at the time, and required performance pursuant to the plan/program.
  • Some benefits have eligibility requirements

Apply today to learn why Sunrise Senior Living is a certified Great Place to Work®
Equal Opportunity Employer
Sunrise Senior Living is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.