What are the responsibilities and job description for the Stakeholder Engagement Manager position at AURA?
The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) is seeking a Stakeholder Engagement Manager to represent the multi-mission science and operations center for NASA’s flagship observatories. Our world-class astronomical research center is based on the Johns Hopkins University Homewood campus in Baltimore, Maryland. (Click here to learn more about our missions). The Stakeholder Engagement Manager will play a crucial role in shaping and executing strategic communications and engagement initiatives for the Space Telescope Science Institute.
STScI offers an excellent benefits package, tuition reimbursement, competitive salaries, and a stimulating and collaborative work environment. This position can support hybrid work (2 day in-office each week). Candidates must reside in or be willing to relocate to our local market. (MD, DE, VA, PA, DC & WV). This position requires US Citizenship or Permanent Residence in order to meet ITAR requirements.
The Stakeholder Engagement Manager will be responsible for fostering strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring effective communication of STScI's mission, goals, and scientific achievements. The ideal candidate is a versatile communicator and change agent who can adapt to a range of projects and priorities within a dynamic environment. This role requires a proactive and results-oriented individual with excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills. The Stakeholder Engagement Manager will collaborate with various departments and leadership to develop and implement communication strategies that enhance STScI's reputation and support its strategic objectives.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Stakeholder Engagement & Communication
- In coordination with the Chief of Staff and the Office of Public Outreach (OPO), maintain and communicate a consistent strategic message framework that resonates with diverse audiences, including NASA, the scientific community, the public, and internal stakeholders (STScI staff and leadership).
- Develop and implement comprehensive communication plans and materials to effectively engage key stakeholders, ensuring alignment with STScI's mission and strategic goals.
- Coordinate development of content for and oversee execution of high-profile speaking events, board meetings, and stakeholder visits to ensure consistent messaging and branding.
- Change Management
- Develop and execute program level change management strategies and plans aligned with STScI transformation objectives.
- Foster a people-centric approach to change management, building strong relationships with stakeholders to inform the development of data-driven change management strategies.
- Support organizational change initiatives by developing and implementing communication strategies that inform, engage, and empower employees.
- Support STScI leadership in effectively communicating change initiatives, addressing employee questions, and promoting adoption of the change.
- Serve as a trusted advisor to leadership on change-related issues, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
- Internal Communications
- Develop and execute internal communication strategies to enable change management activities and keep employees generally informed about STScI's activities, initiatives, and achievements.
- Create and distribute internal newsletters, announcements, and other communication materials to promote employee engagement and a sense of community.
- Facilitate internal communication channels (e.g., intranet, town halls) to encourage open dialogue and feedback from employees.
- Analytics & Reporting
- Track and analyze the effectiveness of communication and engagement initiatives, using data to inform future strategies and improve outcomes.
- Prepare regular reports on stakeholder engagement activities, providing insights into reach, impact, and areas for improvement.
- Utilize data analytics to identify trends and patterns in stakeholder engagement, informing decision-making and resource allocation.
Requirements & Qualifications:
A Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Marketing, Organizational Development, Public Affairs, Public Administration, Public Policy or a related field required. Minimum of 5 years of experience in communications, stakeholder engagement, or public relations. Experience writing for different audiences (e.g., scientists, general public, policymakers) and conducting stakeholder analyses and associated engagement strategies to achieve engagement goals. Preferred: Experience working in scientific, research or academic environments. Change Management certification (e.g. Prosci) Substitution of additional relevant education or experience for stated qualifications may be considered.
- Strategic Communications: In-depth knowledge of strategic communication principles, practices, and techniques.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Understanding of stakeholder engagement methodologies and best practices.
- Change Management Principles: Understanding of change management methodologies and best practices, with experience in supporting change initiatives.
- Data Analysis and Reporting: Knowledge of data analysis techniques and reporting tools for measuring the effectiveness of communication and engagement initiatives.
- Communication Skills (Verbal & Written): Excellent communication skills, including the ability to present information effectively and tailor messaging to different audiences.
- Interpersonal Skills: Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
- Project Management: Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet competing deadlines.
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to think strategically and align communication initiatives with business goals.
- Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and draw meaningful conclusions.
- Critical Thinking: Ability to evaluate information objectively and make sound judgments.
Salary range is 119-130K. Compensation is commensurate with education and experience. Explore our Benefits
- Employer retirement contribution – direct STScI contribution of 10% of your salary from your first day.
- 12 days sick leave, up to 24 days’ vacation, and 10 paid holidays
- Flexible work schedule with work/life balance
- Comprehensive medical/dental/vision/prescription plans, and more!
TO APPLY: Please complete an online application upload a resume and cover letter. Applicants are encouraged to provide up to three work samples that demonstrate your expertise with stakeholder engagement and communications. Samples could include: stakeholder analyses, engagement plans, strategic message frameworks, newsletters, content writing, change management plans, crisis communications, campaign case studies, or reports & analytics. Applications received by 04/11/25 will receive full consideration.
Please only use this link to apply: https://stsci.slideroom.com/#/permalink/program/83529
Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at careers@stsci.edu.
