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Public Relations Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

As we move from technical breakthrough to mainstream adoption, we need a Public Relations Manager to own our narrative. You will be the primary bridge between our core engineering milestones and the ...

Public Relations Specialist Apply now Job no: 5109087 Work type: Full-Time (Salaried) Location: Staunton, Virginia Categories: Educational and Media Services Title: Public Relations Specialist State ...

We're searching for our next Jr. Public Relations Specialist. This role requires a public affairs or strategic communications background in the public sector and will focus on communications-related ...

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Public Relations information

See Virginia salary details

$34.2K

$82.9K

$132.9K

How much do public relations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for public relations in Virginia is $82,908.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,400.00 and $96,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is public relations?

Public relations (PR) is the practice of managing and shaping the public image and reputation of an individual, company, or organization. PR professionals use various communication strategies to build positive relationships with the media, customers, employees, and the general public. Their work often involves writing press releases, organizing events, handling crisis communications, and monitoring public opinion. The goal of public relations is to generate positive publicity and maintain a favorable public perception.

What is public relations?

Public relations, as the name implies, is anything having to do with a company’s or individual’s public facing image or brand. PR can relate to publicity in writing, print, social media, or other platforms. In today’s world, information moves very quickly, so most larger companies have a PR person or department to handle day to day branding and messaging, as well as special events and crisis response.

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

To thrive as a Public Relations professional, you need strong written and verbal communication skills, media relations expertise, and typically a degree in communications, PR, or a related field. Familiarity with media monitoring tools, press release distribution platforms, and social media management systems is usually expected. Creativity, adaptability, and relationship-building are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for crafting effective messages, managing brand reputation, and fostering positive stakeholder engagement.

What are some common challenges faced by public relations professionals, and how can they be managed effectively?

Public Relations professionals often encounter challenges such as managing crisis communications, balancing multiple client or stakeholder expectations, and staying ahead of rapidly evolving media landscapes. To manage these effectively, strong organizational skills, adaptability, and clear communication are essential. Building solid relationships with media contacts and proactively developing crisis response plans can help PR professionals navigate high-pressure situations and maintain a positive public image for their organization or clients.

What is the difference between Public Relations vs Marketing Coordinator?

AspectPublic RelationsMarketing Coordinator
Primary FocusManaging company reputation and media relationsPromoting products/services and sales campaigns
Required SkillsMedia communication, writing, crisis managementAdvertising, market research, campaign planning
Work EnvironmentMedia outlets, PR agencies, corporate communicationsMarketing departments, advertising agencies
Common CertificationsPRSA, APR certificationDigital marketing certifications, Google Analytics

Public Relations and Marketing Coordinators often collaborate but focus on different goals. PR emphasizes reputation management and media relations, while Marketing Coordinators concentrate on promoting products and driving sales. Both roles require strong communication skills and may share some certifications, but their daily tasks and objectives differ significantly.

Do public relations people get paid well?

Public relations professionals' salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, but generally, they earn a median annual wage that is competitive with other communication roles. Entry-level positions tend to pay less, while experienced PR specialists or managers can earn higher salaries, especially with strong media relations and strategic skills.

What does a job in public relations do?

A public relations professional manages an organization’s image and communication with the public, media, and stakeholders. They create press releases, handle media inquiries, develop communication strategies, and often use tools like media monitoring and social media platforms to promote positive public perception.

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Relations jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Public Relations jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Public Relations jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Public Relations job openings:

Infographic showing various Public Relations job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,908 per year, or $39.9 per hour.

Public Relations Manager

QTS Realty Trust, Inc.

Ashburn, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

The Public Relations Manager is responsible for leading QTS' public and analyst relations efforts to enhance image branding and reputation. This in-house role will work closely with marketing operations, public policy and agencies to create and promote the corporate identity and mission to the public, prospects, and customers. They will also manage media relations and serve as the company's liaison, responding to inquiries from the press including reporters and journalists.
Responsibilities, other duties as assigned:
  • Develop and implement data-driven public relations strategies that align with QTS' overall goals and objectives.
  • Create and lead public relations content across a broad array of channels including press releases, media advisories, website updates, and company statements/quotes.
  • Execute our analyst relations strategy by providing information about QTS' services to engaged industry analysts, external agencies, and vendors.
  • Serve as the QTS point-of-contact in company interviews, briefings, events, and other general public-facing opportunities.
  • Manage media relations including pitching stories and responding to inquiries from reporters & journalists.
  • Actively track and report data findings on industry news/trends, market activities, competitive practices, inquiries, and client surveys to identify opportunities to better position the company.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure consistency in messaging and branding.
  • Build and maintain positive relationships with key stakeholders including Blackstone, industry analysts, thought leaders, industry influencers, partners, press/media contacts, and customers.
  • Monitor, analyze, and report on key metrics related to analyst relations activities including media coverage, sentiment, and influence.
  • Promotes and attends special events/functions as needed; reports on corporate milestones and activities.
  • Develop and execute crisis communication plans as needed.

Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Marketing, Journalism, English, or a related field; equivalent professional experience in lieu of a degree
  • Ten or more years of experience in public/media relations.
  • Demonstrates strong media relations skills through excellent oral and written communication in accordance with Associated Press style guidelines and creating compelling public content.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience working in the technology or data center industry.
  • Experience with a public relations and earned media software (Cision).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Strong organizational and analytical skills with the ability to report on key metrics and insights to leaders.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects with competing priorities simultaneously.
  • Knowledge of crisis communication best practices.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to interface across all levels of the organization.
  • Highly organized and detail-oriented.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented work environment.
  • Strong service and support orientation.
  • An enthusiastic positive team player who can support and serve those around them.

Total Rewards:
  • This role is also eligible for a competitive benefits package that includes: medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, 401(k) retirement plan, flexible spending and HSA accounts, paid holidays, paid time off, paid volunteer days, employee assistance program, tuition assistance, parental leave, military leave assistance, QTS scholarship for dependents, wellness program, and other company benefits.
  • This position is bonus eligible.

We conform to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply to all of our job openings. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, age, disability status, Genetic Information & Testing, Family & Medical Leave, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibit retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or discrimination claim.
The "Know Your Rights" Poster is included here:
Know Your Rights (English)
Know Your Rights (Spanish)
The pay transparency policy is available here:
Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Poster-Formatted
QTS is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to talentacquisition@qtsdatacenters.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.