Communications Manager

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?

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Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.

We believe transportation is more than movement, it’s the foundation of connected, thriving communities. As part of HDR’s Transportation Business Group, you’ll help shape the systems that move people and goods safely, efficiently, and sustainably. From designing resilient highways and iconic bridges to advancing transit, passenger and freight rail, aviation, federal transportation ports and marine infrastructure, your work will directly support economic vitality, public safety, sustainable and resilient communities and quality of life. We bring together planners, engineers, architects, construction management staff, environmental, strategic communications, economists, management consultants and specialists across disciplines to solve complex mobility challenges with innovation, technical excellence, and a deep understanding of community needs. Whether you're modernizing aging infrastructure or pioneering next-generation transportation solutions, your contributions will help define the future of mobility. This isn’t just a job, it’s a chance to lead progress, drive meaningful impact, and leave a legacy of smarter, more connected transportation networks. We are all employee-owners at HDR, which is the foundation of our collaborative culture that connects employees around the world.

HDR is looking for a Communications Manager to join our Transportation Business Group team in Charleston, SC. The Communications Manager will lead the development and implementation of strategic communications and public involvement plans for infrastructure and environmental projects, partnering with government clients, project managers, technical staff, and multidisciplinary teams to deliver successful project outcomes.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field
• Master's degree or certifications in a relevant field
• Media buying experience or public relations campaign development experience preferred
• 10 years of experience developing and implementing strategic communications campaigns and/or public involvement programs for infrastructure, transportation, environmental, or government projects, preferably in a consulting environment
• Demonstrated leadership experience working with prominent stakeholders and executives
• Public speaking experience at industry events or external presentations
• Demonstrated experience developing major communications plans, stakeholder engagement strategies, and outreach campaigns for complex projects
• Local candidates are preferred

Required Qualifications

• A minimum of 7 years relevant industry experience, including management experience
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Self-motivated and ability to work independent with multiple teams as well as team oriented
• Demonstrated leadership and organizational skills
• Great interpersonal and communication skills - positive outlook and attitude
• High aptitude for managing and solving tactical issues
• An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must
• Comfortable and competent while working with senior leaders and managing cross-functional efforts
• Demonstrated ability to operate both strategically and tactically in a high-energy, fast-paced environment
• Committed to quality, continuous improvement, and HDR values
• Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite - InDesign
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite

What We Believe

HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.

Our Commitment

As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.

Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

Primary Location: United States-South Carolina-Charleston Industry: Strategic Communications Schedule: Full-time Employee Status: Regular BusinessClass: Strategic Communications Job Posting: Oct 13, 2026

At HDR, we are committed to the principles of employment equity. We are an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer ( We consider all qualified applicants, regardless of criminal histories, arrest and conviction records.