Communications & Research Associate

Position Title
Communications & Research ASSOCIATE

Location
Remote (proximity to Washington D.C. region is helpful but not required).

FLSA status
Exempt

About TRIP
TRIP® is a private, nonprofit organization that researches, evaluates, and communicates economic and technical data on surface transportation issues. Funded through voluntary contributions from companies and organizations in the highway construction sector, TRIP has advanced its mission for more than 50 years through a collaborative model of industry and public partners.

Through national and state-level research and strategic communications, TRIP generates significant earned media coverage to inform policymakers, stakeholders, and the public about transportation infrastructure needs, safety, and economic impact.

Position Overview
The Communications & Research Associate plays a central role in advancing TRIP’s mission by producing quality research and driving strategic communications that elevate surface transportation infrastructure issues nationwide.

This role combines policy research, data analysis, and proactive media engagement to translate complex transportation data into clear, compelling narratives that inform the public and influence decision makers.

Working within a small, collaborative team, this position helps plan and execute national and state-level report releases, generate significant earned media coverage, and positions TRIP as a trusted voice in transportation policy and investment.

Key Responsibilities
Research & Data Analysis

Research, write, and edit national and state-specific reports on transportation issues

Gather, maintain, and analyze transportation data from federal, state, and regional sources.

Translate technical data into clear, accessible, and media-friendly findings

Communications & Media Relations

Develop, write, and edit media materials, including news releases, media advisories, and support documents

Create targeted media lists for each report release, including local, state, and national outlets.

Distribute media materials and proactively pitch report findings and news conferences to media

Report Releases & Event Coordination

Plan and execute report rollouts, including coordinating news conferences and media briefings

Serve as TRIP’s primary liaison for organizing news events, including identifying locations, coordinating logistics, and working with local partners and speakers

External Engagement & Spokesperson Responsibilities

Respond to inquiries from reporters, policymakers, and stakeholders

When needed, serve as a media spokesperson providing presentations and legislative testimony

Stakeholder Collaboration & Outreach

Build and maintain relationships with media, elected officials, government agencies, business organizations, and advocacy groups

Coordinate with partners—including state DOTs, chambers of commerce, and safety advocates—to support report development and media outreach

Work Environment
This role operates within a highly collaborative team structure where research, communications, and outreach responsibilities are closely coordinated. Success in this position requires teamwork, clear communication, and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in communications, public policy, or a relevant field

Experience in communications, media relations, policy research, or related fields

Exceptional writing and editing skills, with the ability to translate complex data into clear, compelling content

Strong analytical and data interpretation skills

Experience working with public agencies, nonprofits, media, policymakers, or advocacy groups

Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment

Willingness to travel as needed (approximately 4 times per year)

Preferred Skills

Experience using professional software platforms such as Excel, Word, and Outlook

Experience coordinating virtual meetings, briefings, or events

Compensation & Benefits
Salary range: $70,000 - $85,000, commensurate with experience

TRIP offers a competitive benefits package, including:

Full Medical and Dental Insurance

Life Insurance

401(k) with employer Safe Harbor contribution and company match

*TRIP is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.

#J-18808-Ljbffr