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Public Relations Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

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Public Relations Assistant information

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How much do public relations assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for public relations assistant in Reston, VA is $22.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $26.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a public relations assistant do?

Public relations (PR) assistants are support or administrative positions at a public relations firm or within a PR team. In this role, you research relevant trends and data for your company's current public relations campaign, help create and select marketing materials, develop and maintain relationships with clients, and work to find new potential clients. You may also be responsible for keeping accurate correspondence records and monitoring social media accounts for the duration of the project. Many companies consider this an entry-level position; they typically have the public relations assistants train alongside PR specialists and managers to gain all the skills necessary to move up to higher-level roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public relations assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Relations Assistant, you need strong written and verbal communication skills, organizational abilities, and a relevant degree such as in communications, marketing, or public relations. Familiarity with media monitoring tools, social media platforms, and public relations management software is often required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work well under pressure make someone stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively supporting PR campaigns, managing media relations, and ensuring a positive public image for clients or organizations.

What are some typical challenges public relations assistants may face when juggling multiple projects, and how can they manage competing deadlines effectively?

Public Relations Assistants often work on several campaigns or events simultaneously, which can make prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines challenging. To manage this, it's important to maintain clear communication with supervisors and team members, utilize project management tools, and regularly update to-do lists. Setting realistic goals, breaking projects into manageable steps, and proactively seeking clarification on urgent tasks can help ensure nothing falls through the cracks. Developing strong organizational skills and flexibility will help you thrive in this fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Public Relations Assistant vs Public Relations Coordinator?

AspectPublic Relations AssistantPublic Relations Coordinator
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant experienceBachelor's degree in communications, marketing, or related field
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supporting PR team, administrative tasksMid-level, managing media relations, campaigns
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in PR agencies, corporate PR departmentsUsed in similar settings, often with more responsibilities
Search & Comparison IntentOften searched by those starting in PR rolesCompared for career advancement or role differentiation

The Public Relations Assistant typically handles entry-level tasks supporting PR campaigns, requiring less experience. The Public Relations Coordinator has more responsibilities, managing media relations and campaigns, often with a bachelor's degree. Both roles are common in PR agencies and corporate environments, but the Coordinator position usually involves greater independence and strategic planning.

Can I work in public relations assistant without a degree?

While a degree in communications, marketing, or a related field is often preferred for a public relations assistant role, some employers may consider candidates with relevant experience, strong communication skills, and a good understanding of media tools. Certification in public relations or related areas can also enhance prospects, but formal education requirements vary by employer.

Is public relations assistant a good paying job?

Public relations assistants typically earn a starting salary that is below average for entry-level roles but can increase with experience and additional skills such as media relations and communication. Salaries vary by location, employer, and industry, with some positions offering opportunities for advancement and higher pay over time.

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Relations jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Public Relations jobs in Reston, VA are:

What job categories do people searching Public Relations Assistant jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Relations Assistant jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Public Relations Assistant jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Public Relations Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Public Relations Assistant job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,696 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Public Relations Associate (IT/Cyber)

Ripple Effect

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site

$64K - $88K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 hours ago


Job description

General Information
  • Job Code: PRO-PR-01/PRO-PR-02
  • Location: Client/Arlington, VA
  • Employee Type: Exempt, Full-Time Regular (may also hire Non-Exempt, Part-Time)
  • Telework: Partial
  • Citizenship: US Citizenship Required
  • Salary Range: $64,281-$88,708 per year

Are you passionate about advancing a mission through strategic communication and outreach that elevate complex IT and cybersecurity initiatives.
Ripple Effect is seeking a Public Relations Associate (IT/Cyber) to support the execution of public affairs and communications initiatives, including strategic communications planning, media relations, campaign execution, and stakeholder engagement. This role supports technology- and cyber-focused programs and requires the ability to translate complex topics into clear, accessible messaging for diverse audiences.
Responsibilities:
  • Public Affairs Support: Contribute to public affairs initiatives by developing issue-based content, supporting outreach campaigns, and assisting with stakeholder engagement activities. Provide input into communications strategies and execute tasks under the direction of senior team members.
  • Media Relations Activities: Assist with media outreach efforts, draft press materials, and support preparation for interviews and briefings. Monitor media coverage and compile summaries to help inform messaging and track outcomes.
  • Communication & Representation: Communicate clearly and professionally in both internal and external settings. Support organizational representation at events, conferences, and engagements, contributing to consistent and effective messaging.
  • Schedule & Timeline Coordination: Help manage timelines across multiple public relations tasks and campaigns, ensuring deliverables such as press releases, media outreach, and communications materials are completed on schedule. Escalate risks or delays as needed.
  • Documentation & Organization: Maintain organized and up-to-date documentation of PR activities, including press materials, media lists, campaign trackers, and partnership records to support team coordination and knowledge sharing.
  • Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement: Identify and address routine communications challenges, seeking guidance for more complex issues. Contribute ideas to improve processes, tools, and campaign effectiveness, and incorporate feedback to strengthen performance.

Requirements
Minimum Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Public Relations, Communications, or a related field
  • Minimum of three (3) years of experience planning and executing comprehensive public relations campaigns, including strategic direction, message development, and implementation
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DHS Fitness Determination

Basic Requirements
  • Proven experience collaborating with clients, leadership, and cross-functional teams to execute public relations initiatives from concept through delivery
  • Experience partnering with internal teams and external stakeholders to coordinate PR projects and ensure alignment with communication objectives
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience developing messaging, press materials, and campaign content
  • Experience reviewing communications products for quality, consistency, and alignment with organizational standards
  • High degree of professionalism, judgment, and discretion when handling sensitive or high-visibility communications
  • Intermediate experience with Microsoft Office productivity software and collaboration tools such as Microsoft Teams and SharePoint
  • Must be a U.S. citizen to be eligible for this role

Skills That Set You Apart
  • Experience supporting IT, cybersecurity, technology modernization, or digital programs
  • Background working in federal, contractor, or highly regulated environments
  • Experience coordinating campaigns that involve media outreach, events, or multi-channel communications
  • Ability to translate complex or technical subject matter into clear, compelling messages for varied audiences
  • Strong client-facing skills with experience advising stakeholders on messaging and campaign approaches

Benefits
Ripple Effect rewards our employees for their contributions to our mission in many ways, from competitive pay and exceptional benefits to a range of work/life programs based on your employment classification and personalized preferences.
Ripple Effect is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, political affiliation, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation during the hiring process, please let us know by contacting our HR department at HR@rippleeffect.com or your recruiter. Eligibility for employment will be verified using E-verify.