Senior Associate or Associate, Executive Communications

Washington, DC, USA
Posted on  

Job Description


If you are the person everybody runs to when they need something written creatively, clearly, and quickly; if you see storytelling and messaging as important ways to contribute to causes you believe in; and if you enjoy the challenge of translating complex ideas into compelling language in order to advance an argument, then we should talk.


We’re SKDK, the public affairs and political communications firm honored repeatedly as our industry’s agency of the year, and we’re looking for a talented wordsmith to join our Executive Communications team. Our team of writers and coaches create sharp messages and smart narratives, craft polished speeches, and conduct intensive media trainings to help leaders of progressive causes, Democratic campaigns, and top businesses shape and share their ideas. We’ve partnered with high-profile speakers communicating from the White House and World Economic Forum, on “60 Minutes” and “The Daily Show,” and in cover stories and opinion pieces published around the globe.


As a key part of our team, you’ll collaborate closely with our colleagues and clients — including elected officials and candidates; philanthropists and foundation heads; advocates for cases before the Supreme Court and causes like racial justice, clean energy, global health, and economic fairness; and executives steering major American brands and innovative startups.


You’ll get the pen on speeches and op-eds, draft messaging about newsworthy issues, and prepare and participate in on-camera coaching sessions. And as a member of the SKDK family, you’ll be part of an award-winning, full-service public affairs firm filled with passionate communicators who take pride in our work — which includes helping elect Joe Biden and Kamala Harris.


SKDK is made whole by the diversity of our team. We are a firm that invites and celebrates the uniqueness of each member of our team and encourages individuals to bring their best selves into the workplace. Whether through participating in one of our Employee Resource Groups, serving on our DEI Council, volunteering with colleagues, or bringing a new perspective to client work, your individuality and experience matters.

Job responsibilities include:

  • Writing creatively and precisely in a range of longform formats, including speeches, op-eds, organizational narratives, memos, and proposals.
  • Researching persuasive and interesting content that makes clients’ communications concrete and memorable.
  • Assessing clients’ existing communications strategy, tactics, and writing.
  • Digesting qualitative and quantitative message research and making recommendations on tone and content.
  • Learning new material quickly and communicating complex subject matter in clear and compelling language.
  • Editing and copyediting written materials to align with message imperatives, tone, clarity, and AP Style.
  • Preparing media and public speaking training materials and coaching clients during training sessions.


A successful candidate will have:

  • One to four years of relevant writing or messaging experience in organizations such as political campaigns, government, issue advocacy groups, media, public affairs agencies, or similar.
  • Writing samples that demonstrate strong writing and research skills.
  • Ability to manage time and responsibilities while working on multiple projects with competing deadlines.
  • Excellent organizational and internal communications skills. 
  • Attention to detail.


SKDK is committed to pay equity. SKDK believes the target range of base compensation in this role is $58,500-$75,000. In addition to base salary, SKDK considers other key components as part of total compensation, including but not limited to an annual discretionary bonus, commission on new business, and a comprehensive benefits package. Actual base compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors, such as skillset, level of experience, and location.


What we offer: 

SKDK provides a generous benefits package including excellent coverage for health, vision, and dental insurance premiums; paid parental leave; time off including vacation, holidays, and sick time; 401(k) with an employer contribution, reimbursement for cellular service, public transportation benefits, and additional benefits.


SKDK believes in the growth and development of all our employees and therefore we offer:

Professional development and career guidance

Opportunities for advancement

Participation in Employee Resource Groups 

A collegial and supportive office environment


SKDK is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce. It is our policy to recruit, hire, train, and promote without regard to race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any protected category.