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

Rational 360

Associate

Washington, DC

Associates have experience in public relations, research, writing, digital media, media pitching, and have an interest in public affairs and American politics. Associates deliver timely new updates ...

Orchestra

Associate

Washington, DC · On-site

ABOUT THE GLEN ECHO GROUP Glen Echo Group seeks an Associate to join our fast-growing, DC-based ... One to three years of public relations and strategic communications experience, translating ...

Glen Echo Group

Associate

Washington, DC · On-site

ABOUT THE GLEN ECHO GROUP Glen Echo Group seeks an Associate to join our fast-growing, DC-based ... One to three years of public relations and strategic communications experience, translating ...

Glen Echo Group

Associate

Washington, DC · Hybrid

... Onward and Small Girls PR. It also launched Brightmode, a talent acquisition firm for ... ABOUT THE GLEN ECHO GROUP Glen Echo Group seeks an Associate to join our fast-growing, DC-based ...

Orchestra

Associate

Washington, DC · Hybrid

... Onward and Small Girls PR. It also launched Brightmode, a talent acquisition firm for ... ABOUT THE GLEN ECHO GROUP Glen Echo Group seeks an Associate to join our fast-growing, DC-based ...

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Public Relations Associate information

See Reston, VA salary details

$13

$28

$75

How much do public relations associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for public relations associate in Reston, VA is $28.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.02 and $32.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a public relations associate?

A public relations associate meets with the press to create and develop a favorable image of an organization. Responsibilities include the design of advertising materials on a variety of platforms including social media. You must have experience with marketing and ad campaigns along with knowledge of analytics, media relations strategies, and current technologies to succeed in this job. Excellent verbal and communication skills are imperative to implement the vision of a client with creative solutions. Duties also involve advanced written documentation such as case studies, media talking points, and presentations. Work is full-time with most employers preferring individuals with experience in public relations.

What does a public relations associate do?

A Public Relations Associate helps manage and improve the public image of a company or organization. They assist with writing press releases, coordinating media outreach, managing social media presence, and organizing events. Their goal is to foster positive relationships with the media and the public, ensuring that their employer’s message is communicated effectively. Public Relations Associates often work closely with other communications professionals to develop and implement PR strategies.

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

To thrive as a Public Relations Associate, you need strong written and verbal communication skills, media relations experience, and typically a bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, or a related field. Familiarity with media monitoring tools, press release distribution platforms, and social media management systems is often required. Creativity, adaptability, and relationship-building are essential soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure effective brand messaging, positive media coverage, and successful collaboration in a fast-paced environment.

How does a public relations associate typically collaborate with other departments within an organization?

As a Public Relations Associate, you'll frequently work with teams such as marketing, social media, and customer service to ensure consistent messaging and effective communication strategies. Collaboration often involves coordinating on campaigns, sharing media insights, and preparing unified responses to public inquiries or crises. Building strong working relationships across departments helps enhance the organization's reputation and ensures that all external communications align with broader business goals. Expect regular meetings and cross-functional projects to be a core part of your routine.

How much do public relations associates make?

Public relations associates typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals or those in larger markets can earn higher salaries. Skills in communication, media relations, and familiarity with PR tools can influence earning potential.
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Public Relations Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Relations Associate job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,906 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

Associate

Rational 360

Washington, DC

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Rational 360 is seeking to hire an Associate to support several client accounts. Associates have experience in public relations, research, writing, digital media, media pitching, and have an interest in public affairs and American politics. Associates deliver timely new updates and analysis-media, legislation, and political stakeholder- and are able to develop a strong understanding of clients' issues and businesses. They prepare key client documents, particularly press and stakeholder lists, play an active role in coordinating and implementing daily account activities, and often lead research efforts.

Associates should have a working knowledge of Washington, be eager to work in a fast-paced environment and be able to manage a diverse workload.

The firm is committed to high-quality, personal service and specialize in strategic public affairs communications, reputation management, business and consumer public relations, and interactive communications.

About Rational 360 

Rational 360 is a full-service strategic communications and digital company that helps organizations win in high-stakes public affairs, corporate communications, and reputation management. We combine data-driven insights, creative storytelling, and cutting-edge technology to deliver results for clients across industries. Our team is collaborative, entrepreneurial, and driven by impact.

With a staff of approximately 120 and growing, Rational 360 is partially employee-owned and deeply invested in professional development, mentorship, and career advancement. Our teams work at the forefront of strategic communications, public policy, and media engagement across a wide variety of sectors.

Requirements

Key responsibilities:

  • Monitor client news, often in real-time; alert internal teams and clients to key client issues
  • Prepare reporter backgrounders and media lists.
  • Perform competitive analyses of clients and peer groups; identify and analyze research and media coverage on industry trends.
  • Effectively handle logistics around media and client meetings, announcement days, and other client events.
  • Identify and assess media and visibility opportunities for clients.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

At Rational, we look to hire smart, ambitious individuals who are dedicated to learning and growth.

In addition to considering experience when reviewing talent, we look to see potential, strong work ethic, and excellent written and verbal communications skills. Standout candidates demonstrate the following:

  • Strong interest in politics, legislative issues, and communication strategy
  • Ability to operate effectively in an entrepreneurial, fast-paced environment
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication ability
  • Energetic team player with strong self-motivation
  • Ability to think strategically and creatively, with strong problem-solving skills
  • Strong attention to detail with the ability to multitask in high-pressure situations and manage multiple projects
  • Ability to development and edit high quality written materials including press and marketing materials, fact sheets, talking points, and other essential internal/external communications
  • Ability to exhibit discretion with confidential client matters
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Office products and digital media tools
  • Media relations experience with proven results and demonstrated experience working with and pitching to reporters is a plus
  • 2+ years of communications, public relations, digital media or comparable job experience
  • Bachelor's Degree

Benefits

Why Join Rational 360? 

  • Collaborative, mission-driven team environment 
  • Exposure to high-impact work across public affairs, communications, and digital 
  • Competitive compensation and benefits 
  • Hybrid work model with flexibility- this role will be required to adhere to our hybrid work policy which requires employees to work in-person from our HQ located in downtown DC on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays

Salary range for this role is 60,000 to 65,500 USD annually.

This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship now or in the future.

Rational 360 is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to building an inclusive workplace.

Apply