Public Engagement Manager

Vistra Communications is seeking a Public Engagement Manager to support strategic communications and community engagement initiatives for public sector, nonprofit and corporate clients. This role is responsible for planning and executing public engagement strategies, managing stakeholder relationships and delivering high-quality communications that support client objectives.

Reporting to the Vice President of Public Sector Programs, the Public Engagement Manager will lead project execution while collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment, quality and measurable results. The ideal candidate is a proactive communicator with experience in public outreach, stakeholder engagement and client management, particularly in government, infrastructure and transportation-related projects.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Communications & Public Engagement

• Plan and execute public engagement and strategic communications initiatives for client projects 
• Support the development of integrated communications plans aligned with client goals 
• Contribute to and develop messaging strategies that effectively reach and engage target audiences 

Stakeholder & Community Engagement

• Build and maintain relationships with community leaders, stakeholders, government agencies and partner organizations 
• Represent clients at public meetings, workshops and community events      
• Identify engagement opportunities and provide input on outreach strategies 

Content Development & Messaging

• Develop and edit communications materials including public information content, website and social media copy, media materials and proposals 
• Ensure consistency and clarity of messaging across all communication channels 

Project & Client Management

• Manage project timelines, budgets and deliverables to ensure successful execution 
• Collaborate with internal teams to meet or exceed client expectations 
• Support client relationships through responsive communication and high-quality service 

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Lead and support project teams, providing direction and coordination across workstreams 
• Collaborate with internal teams to deliver integrated solutions 

Business Development Support

• Assist in proposal development and contribute to new business opportunities 
• Provide input on project pursuits and strategic initiatives

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, planning, public relations, marketing or a related field 5 to 7 years of experience in public engagement, public relations, community outreach or related field
• Experience working with government clients (city, county or state) preferred
• Transportation or infrastructure project experience preferred
• Strong writing, editing and presentation skills
• Proven ability to manage projects, timelines and multiple priorities
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to engage stakeholders at all levels
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment

About Vistra:  Vistra Communications, doing business as Vistra and Vistra Federal Solutions, is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) headquartered in Tampa, FL with an office in Alexandria, VA providing professional support serviced to Defense, Federal, and Civilian Agencies.  Approximately 25% of our “team member” employees work in the National Capital Region, providing communications, outreach, and organizational transformation services to our public sector customers.  Vistra provides medical, dental, and vision benefits, life and disability insurance, employer matching 401(k) retirement plan, Paid Time Off, Parental and Bereavement Leave, and Professional Development, among other benefits. 

US Citizenship Required: Due to the requirements of the federal contract that this position supports, U.S. citizenship is required. Citizenship will be confirmed via I-9/E-Verify at the start of employment.