Thursday, August 20, 2026

50 Good Ones

50 good ones for your Thursday; we're pretty happy with these – hope there's something here to make you happy, too.

1) Privacy-first mobile telecom company Cape is seeking a Head of Government Relations with prior relevant experience in fast-paced environments, executive communications skills, and legislative/lobbying background – $250k-$350k – see also main career page 

2-3) The Wikimedia Foundation has let us know about two just-opened remote-based roles – see also main career page

  • Principal, Executive Communications – $144k-$220k – 10+ years of experience in communications required, including extensive work C-level executives, as well as unflappable composure
  • Head of Marketing – $143k-$217k – 12+ years of marketing experience sought, including time with a major website, online publisher/platform, growing & engaging audiences at scale globally.

4) TRM Labs combines expertise from law enforcement, data science, engineering, and financial intelligence to combat terrorist financing, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and other serious crimes, and you can be a part of it as their Head of Government Affairs – $150k-$210k – 8-12+ years in strategic communications/public affairs, with meaningful experience in or alongside government desired – see also main career page 

5-6) New from the Data Center Coalition – remote-based roles: 

  • Manager or Senior Manager, Energy Policy/Reliability & Security – $120k-$150k – 5+ years of experience advancing energy policy and/or regulatory initiatives related to grid reliability & security required, preferably in NERC committees and stakeholder processes, FERC proceedings and/or in RTO/ISO stakeholder processes.   
  • Research Manager – $70k-$100k – 3-5 years of demonstrated experience & strong skillset in research, data collection & analysis required 

7-8) DC & Seattle-based PR firm RH Strategic has passed along fresh opportunities in the local outpost – see also main career page

  • Account Director, Public Affairs – $90k-$135k – 6–10 years of policy, public affairs and/or policy communications experience with a demonstrated ability to operate in high-impact environments desired; Capitol Hill background preferred
  • Account Supervisor, Media Relations – $95k-$120k –  6+ years of experience leading earned media strategies and track record of securing high-impact national & policy-focused coverage sought, along with background in supporting clients in technology, education, and/or healthcare sectors

9) 340B HealthGovernment Relations Coordinator – $56k-$75k

10) Administrative Office of the U.S. CourtsDeputy Legislative Affairs Officer – $204k-$226k – note: apply deadline is Aug. 2027, which we imagine translates to “open until filled”

11-13) American Enterprise Institute

14-15) American Society of Clinical Oncology

16-17) Artemis ARC – opportunities supporting the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center – see also main career page

18) BAE SystemsDirector, Government Relations – $173k-$294k

19) Blue OriginIntegrated Communications Director – $157k-$219k – Arlington, Va; Space Coast, FL or Kent, WA – see also main career page 

20-21) Brady United Against Gun Violence – see also main career page

22) Civitas Public AffairsAssociate – $65k-$85k – DC or Boston – see also main career page

23) Common CauseVice President, Marketing & Communications – $153k-$185k – see also main career page 

24-25) CNN

26) DDCAccount Coordinator, Public Affairs – $60k – see also main career page 

27) Defenders of WildlifeDigital Marketing Associate – $73k-$80k – see also main career page 

28) EmbraerHead of Government & Public Relations supporting EVE Air Mobility – DC or Melbourne, FL – see also main career page 

29) Eversheds Sutherland LLP Public Relations Manager – $95k-$135k – see also main career page

30) Feeding AmericaManager, Neighbors Advocacy – $93k-$98k

31) Federal Highway AdministrationSupervisory Public Affairs Specialist – $169k-$197k – apply by Aug. 24; we also noted a similar non-supervisory-level role in Monday’s set 

32-34) Georgetown University

35-37) ICF International – * award-contingent opportunity

38) Johns Hopkins UniversitySenior Communications & Marketing Manager supporting the Bloomberg Center for Government Excellence – $77k-$135k – Baltimore, MD

39) Media Research CenterStaff Writer, Artificial Intelligence & Free Speech – $50k-$50k – Herndon, Va. or remote-based – search managed by Talent Market 

40) Navy MutualSocial Media Specialist – $72k-$85k – see also main career page 

41-42) Northrop Grumman

43) Our Lady of the Fields ParishDirector of Communications – $70k-$80k – Millersville, MD

44) Society for Human Resource ManagementBrand Specialist – $70k-$85k

45-46) Truth Initiative

47-48) VOX Global

49) Weber ShandwickVice President, Corporate – $119k-$155k

50) … and finally: Monumental Sports is recruiting for a pair of communications roles supporting the Capitals with similar responsibilities: Game Night Staff, Media Relations and Media Relations Intern – $18/hr – see also main career page

Best wishes for an awesome weekend from your favorite™ public affairs jobs resource; here's few happenings we found for our 2026 Festival Season spectacular:

Monday, August 17, 2026

Coalition, Council, Commission & Conservatory

Hello Monday! We keep bouncing along in heart & heat of August.

1) The Campaign Legal Center is seeking a Communications Associate with 1-3+ years of communications or journalism experience, along with strong project management, writing & editing chops – $67k-$87k – see also main career page 

2) Demand Justice is recruiting for a Senior Communications Advisor with 12+ years of communications experience in politics and/or advocacy campaigns, a strong instinct for powerful storytelling, plus a record of building relationships with reporters and generating high-impact placements – $175k-$205k – search managed by Grossman Solutions 

3) The Data Center Coalition is seeking a State Policy Communications Manager with 3-5 years of experience working in communications, public relations, journalism, policy, or a related field, as well as strong media relations skills & track record securing coverage – $70k-$100k – remote-based

4) AFL-CIOWriter/Researcher – temporary position through Nov. 2026 – $78k

5) American Choral Directors AssociationCommunications Manager (pdf) – remote-based – apply by Sept. 1 – see also main career page 

6) American Physical Therapy AssociationState Legislative Affairs Specialist – $65k-$75k – see also main career page 

7) American Property Casualty Insurance Association – Assistant Vice President, State Government Relations/Western Region – $178k-$180k – location not specified, but we do see APCIA has a Sacramento office on their main career page 

8-9) American University

10-12) Amnesty International USA – remote-based roles – see also main career page

13) Association of American RailroadsDirector, Congressional Affairs (scroll to find) – $137k-$163k

14) Booz AllenProgram Appropriations & Congressional Analyst supporting a U.S. Navy office – Secret clearance required – $55k-$126k

15) British EmbassyPress, Politics & Public Affairs Officer – $68k – Boston, MA – apply by Sept. 2

16) CardinalHealthSenior Manager, Federal Government Relations – $131k-$168k

17) Chesapeake Bay FoundationWatershed Policy Specialist – $60k-$64k – Annapolis, MD

18) City of AlexandriaLegislative Director – $141k-$153k – apply by Sept. 14

19) Eli LillySenior Director, Global Data Storytelling Communications – $154k-$256k – Indianapolis, IN

20) Elizabeth Dole FoundationDirector of Corporate Relations – search manager by Freeman Philanthropic Services 

21) EveryMindDirector, Individual & Corporate Giving – $135k – search managed by Good Insight

22) Federal Highway AdministrationPublic Affairs Specialist – $121-$158k – apply by Aug. 24

23-24) Google

25) Information Technology Industry CouncilVice President, State Government Affairs – $260k-$285k – see also main career page 

26) Internal Revenue ServiceSupervisory Public Affairs Specialist – $143k-$187k – apply by Aug. 19 

27) The Joint CommissionGovernment Relations & Health Policy Fellow – see also main career page

28) MISO/Midwest Independent System OperatorSenior Analyst, Federal Government Relations – $96k-$121k – see also main career page

29) The Monitoring AssociationMarketing & Communications Coordinator

30) Mystery educational institution/museumAdvancement Associate – $31/hr – search managed by The Choice, Inc. 

31-32) Searches managed by Hawthorne Lane

33-35) National Retail Federation – see also main career page

36-37) National Waste Recycling Association – see more about NWRA here

38) NBC NewsWeekend Anchor/Reporter, NBC4 – $110k-$130k

39) The New Foreign AssistancePolicy Associate – $80k-$120k – see more about them here 

40) Oberlin College & ConservatoryVice President of Communications – Oberlin, OH – search managed by Isaacson, Miller 

41) SanofiHead of US Public Affairs & Patient Advocacy, Immunology – $232k-$335k – DC, Morristown, NJ or Cambridge, MA

42) Society of Interventional RadiologySenior Director, Advocacy & Practice Development – $165k-$180k – see also main career page 

43) Spotify Head of Strategic Programs, Government Affairs – $236k-$337k

44) United Automobile, Aerospace & Agricultural Implement Workers of AmericaAssistant Legislative Director – $151k – see also main career page 

45) … and finally: this is a little outside the usual DCPA+CJ focus, but perhaps someone has the hospitality & food/beverage events experience, creativity & flexibility sought for this Conference Services Manager role w/ Kimpton Hotels at their Hotel Monaco outpost – $35-$36/hr

46) … and finally, part 2: here’s a news-business role that is newsworthy itself – the Washington Post describes their call for a Chief AI Officer as a rare mandate that spans the newsroom, engineering, advertising, and subscriptions, and it treats AI not as a cost-cutting tool but as a way to build the products that will define the next era of news – $281k-$489k

Thursday, August 13, 2026

47 Great Jobs

Hello Thursday job-browsers! Here's some great fresh jobs to check out before you start looking forward to the weekend.

1) Computer chip manufacturing equipment company ASML is seeking a Senior Media Relations Manager with  experience in issues communications across government affairs/public policy & geopolitically sensitive topics, as well as familiarity w/ tech/semiconductor sector – $110k-$165k – see also main career page 

2-3) The Brookings Institution has passed along two opportunities:

  • Media Relations Coordinator – $60k-$63k – 1-3+ years of experience in communications, journalism, media relations, public affairs, public policy, or a related field desired
  • Managing Director supporting the Hamilton Project – $170k-$190k –$10+ years of relevant experience in government, public policy, a think tank, or a similar policy-focused environment sought, along w/ a background in economics & demonstrated project management experience.

4-5) Airlink – see also main career page

6) American Heart AssociationEvent Planning Coordinator 

7) Anheuser-BuschDirector, Public Affairs – $133k-$158k

8-9) The Atlantic

10-12) Boscobel Marketing Communications – see also main career page

13-15) Center for American Progress

16-17) CNN

18) Davis ConstructionMarketing Communications Coordinator – $65k-$80k

19) Drug Enforcement AdministrationPublic Affairs Specialist – $143k-$187k – apply by Aug. 20

20) Equal Employment Opportunity CommissionPublic Affairs Specialist – $121k-$158k – apply by Aug. 19 

21) Feeding AmericaGovernment Affairs Specialist – $88k-$93k

22-23) Fox News

24) FTI ConsultingDigital Intelligence Senior Consultant – $77k-$118k – DC, New York or Chicago

25-26) Georgetown University

27) GMMBAccount Exec – $60k-$70k – see also main career page 

28-29) Guidehouse – see also main career page

30) Heritage FoundationPolicy Analyst, Center for Technology & the Human Person – $90k-$115k

31) Hudson InstituteMedia Relations Manager – $60k-$80k

32-35) ICF International – * award-contingent opportunity

36) Lutheran Social Services National Capital AreaDirector of Marketing & Communications – $113k-$125k – see also main career page 

37) One Federal SolutionStrategic Communications Specialist supporting the Office of Naval Research – see also main career page 

38-39) Securities and Exchange CommissionBranch Chief, Strategic Communications – $162k-$280k – apply by Aug. 20; subject to early closure

40-42) Pacific Legal Foundation – Arlington, Va. or remote-based – see also main career page

43-45) World Bank

46) … and finally: we’ve had lot of oyster-related peripheral content of late and now we have some that’s in line with the main job-finding mission here – Oyster Recovery ProjectChief Operating Officer/Director of Operations – $90k-$100k – Annapolis, MD 

47) … and finally, part 2: Nesquik is still a thing? There's your challenge as Senior Manager, Brand Marketing Communications for that NestlĂ© USA brand – $165k-$200k

Best wishes for a great mid-August weekend from your favorite™ public affairs jobs resource – here's some opportunities to enliven it further – check out our 2026 Festival Season rundown to plan ahead for future weekend planning:

Monday, August 10, 2026

Some Great Jobs for You

It's Monday & we're back to it.

1) Fusion power pioneer Helion is recruiting for a Manager of Multistate Public Affairs with 7+ years of experience in government affairs, public affairs, policy, or stakeholder engagement & proven ability working across multiple states or at the national level with policy, regulatory, or political audiences – $150k-$180k – DC or Everett, WA – see also main career page

2) The Trust for the National Mall is seeking a Communications Coordinator with 2-3+ years' experience in social media, graphic design, communications, marketing and brand management; knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, particularly InDesign and Photoshop, highly valued – $55k-$60k – see also main career page 

3) The American College of Gastroenterology has shared this new Social Media & Community Manager role suited for candidates with 5-7 years of communications experience, including in social media management; background in in health/science communications a plus – more about AGC here 

4-6) DC-based public affairs and marketing firm CLYDE has let us know they are hiring for these junior- to mid-level positions – see also main career page

7) The Partnership for Public Service is seeking an Associate, Public Policy & Stakeholder Engagement with 1-2 years of relevant experience, along with project management skills and ability to organize tasks, track deadlines & follow through on assigned work with minimal oversight – $52k-$54k – see also main career page 

8) Per the comments, we see that the American Federation of Government Employees is seeking a Digital Communications Specialist (pdf) with 3+ years of video production & post-production experience and demonstrated understanding of storytelling, design, and editorial processes, along with as the ability to integrate them with high production value – $85k-$133k – see also main career page 

9) American Flood CoalitionSenior State Policy Associate – $77k-$99k

10) America's Essential HospitalsDirector of Health Policy – $165k-$195k – see also main career page

11) American Institutes for ResearchResearch Associate, Education Systems & Policy – $33-$40/hr – Arlington, Va., Chapel Hill, NC; Austin, Chicago or Sacramento

12) Center for Climate & Energy SolutionsEvents Manager – $82k-$103k

13) Chicago Council on Global AffairsSenior Editor/Writer, Executive & Editorial Communications – $150k-$180k – Chicago, IL – see also main career page; other fresh roles available

14) Conservation InternationalDirector of Social Media – $105k-$115k – see also main career page 

15) Georgetown UniversityEvents Coordinator supporting the Institute for Women, Peace & Security – $44k-$73k

16) Global Business AllianceSenior Director, Communications & Media Relations – $135k-$150k – see also main career page 

17-18) HNTB Corp. – Arlington or Glen Allen, Va. – see also main career page

19-20) Independent Community Bankers of America – see also main career page

21) Internal Revenue ServiceFederal Register Liaison – $70k-$111k – apply by Aug. 12 

22) Issue OneDigital Content Manager – $70k-$80k

23) Leidos Senior Communications Specialist supporting their Intel Sector Analysis Solutions Business Area– $105k-$190k – Secret clearance required

24-25) Mamatoto Village – see also main career page

26) MastercardManager, Government Affairs & Policy – $159k-$254k

27) MedalliaSocial Media Manager – $111k-$17k – see also main career page 

28) Montgomery County Public SchoolsCommunications Specialist, Social Media Marketing – $34-$60/hr – apply by Aug. 13 

29) Monumental SportsCommunications Coordinator, Basketball/Wizards – $55k-$60k

30-31) Netflix

32-33) Pew Research Center

34) Seafarers International UnionSocial Media Coordinator – $45k-$60k

35) Southern Poverty Law CenterDeputy Director, Digital Fundraising & Advertising – $115k – DC, Atlanta or Montgomery

36) StatesideLegislative Issue Manager – $58k-$62k – see also main career page 

37) SpaceXSenior Satellite Policy Manager – $125k-$180k

38) Taxpayers Protection AllianceDirector, Federal Affairs & Coalitions 

39) United Food & Commercial WorkersSenior Political Coordinator – $66k-$85k – DC, Little Falls, NJ or Media, PA

40) Washington PostDeputy Editor, National – $174k-$243k – apply by Aug. 23

41) Wounded Warrior ProjectSenior Government Affairs Associate – $90k-$112k

42) … and finally: the Office of Hawaiian Affairs is seeking a Washington DC Bureau Chief (scroll way down to find) with 8+ years of experience in federal policy, legislative affairs, governmental relations, or regulatory advocacy & demonstrated background working with Congress and/or federal agencies – $102k-$130k – a possible catch for DC-area aspirants: employment is subject to a residency requirement which is determined by domicile and intent to maintain Hawaii as one’s permanent home, regardless of duty location.

43) … and finally, part 2: the British Embassy is recruiting for a Social Secretary & Residence Director to provide leadership, direction and oversight across the Embassy's social engagement, visits, events and Residence operations functions – $119k – apply by Aug. 27 – fantastic!

Thursday, August 6, 2026

Festival Season 2026

A DCPA+CJ tradition since 2015! Here's your 2026 rundown of Oktoberfests, county fairs, oyster showcases, BBQ bashes, and other festivals/happenings that brighten the Fall season – with our earliest starting point yet. We'll also highlight these events at the end of Thursday/Friday posts. Shoot us an email for any we've missed or mis-linked, and we'll continue to expand the list throughout the season – so definitely check back.

Get out there and have some fun – but please don't drink & drive!

Port to Port Beer Festival – Port City Brewing, Alexandria, Va. – Aug. 8
Shipgarten 4 Year Anniversary Party – Tyson’s Corner, Va. – Aug. 8
Taste of Leesburg – Leesburg, Va. – Aug. 8
BBQ & Bluegrass – Breaux Vinyards, Purcellville Va. – Aug. 8
80th Annual Howard County Fair – West Friendship, MD – Aug. 8-15 

Clarke County Fair – Berryville, Va. – Aug. 9-16 
Arlington County Fair – Arlington, Va. – Aug. 12-16
Rossyln LIVE – Gateway Park, Rosslyn/Arlington – Aug. 13
10th Annual Crabfest – Upperville, Va. – Aug. 14
Montgomery County Agricultural Fair – Gaithersburg, MD – Aug. 14-22
Del Ray Bands & Brews Bar Crawl – Alexandria, Va. – Aug. 15
Coastal Craft Beer Festival – Virginia Beach – Aug. 15
Panda Fest (Asian food festival) – 6th St. & Pennsylvania Ave. NW – Aug. 15-16 

Norfolk Waterfront Jazz Festival – Norfolk, Va. – Aug. 21-22
Pancakes & Bourbon Festival – Williamsburg, Va. – Aug. 22
Asia in a Bite Food Festival – Tingey Plaza/Navy Yard DC – Aug. 22-23
C&O Canal Days – Williamsport, MD – Aug. 22-23 – see also FB page

Maryland State Fair – State Fairgrounds/Timonium, MD – Thursdays-thru-Sundays, Aug. 27-Sept. 13
Around the World Cultural Food Festival – Old Town Alexandria, Va. – Aug. 29
Aslin Bikes & Beers – Herndon, Va. – Aug. 29
Washington Chinese Culture Festival – 3rd & Pennsylvania Ave NW – Aug. 29
Ocean City Seafood Festival – Ocean City, MD – Aug. 29
Celebrate Mount Airy – Mount Airy, MD – Aug. 29

80th National Hard Crab Derby – Crisfield, MD – Sept. 3-6
Front Porch Festival – Stuart, Va. – Sept. 3-6
AFRO+ Fest – Northwest Stadium/Landover, MD – Sept. 4-6
Greenbelt Labor Day Festival – Greenbelt, MD – Sept. 4-7
Capital House Music Festival – Silver Spring, MD – Sept. 5
Orange Street Festival – Orange, Va. – Sept. 5
Taste of Freedom in the Mountains Festival – Madison, Va. – Sept. 5
15th Annual Labor Day Wine & Music Fest – Rebec Vineyard, Amherst, Va. – Sept. 5
Patsy Cline House Block Party – Winchester, Va. – Sept. 5 – note: alcohol-free event
DC Jazzfest – DC Wharf – Sept. 5-6 – events at other venues starting Sept. 2 
Virginia Scottish Games – The Plains, Va. – Sept. 5-6
Middle Eastern Food Festival – McLean, Va. – Sept. 5-6
Glen Echo Park Labor Day Weekend Art Show – Glen Echo, MD – Sept. 5-6
DC State Fair – Downtown DC – Sept. 6
Loudoun County Musician’s Festival – Hillsboro, Va. – Sept. 6
Western Maryland Craft Beverage Festival – Frostburg, MD – Sept. 6 

Tickets go on sale for November's Old Ebbitt Oyster Riot – Sept. 8
Watermelon Picker's Festival (bluegrass, etc.) – Berryville, Va. – Sept. 10-12
DC Art All Night and DC Dine All Night – various locations – Sept. 10-13
Prince George's County Fair – Upper Marlboro, MD – Sept. 10-13
Arte Agave Tequila & Mezcal Festival – The Schuyler, Downtown DC – Sept. 11
29th Annual Fall Wine Festival – Virginia Beach – Sept. 11-12
Maryland Seafood Festival – Sandy Point State Park, Annapolis, MD – Sept. 11-13
Fells Point Oyster Festival – Baltimore, MD – Sept. 11-13
Saints Constantine & Helen Greek Festival – Silver Spring, MD – Sept. 11-13
Fall Makers Market with Made in ALX – and Scoville Showdown Hot Wings Challenge – Port City Brewing, Alexandria Va. – Sept 12
Rosslyn Jazz Fest – Gateway Park, Arlington – Sept. 12
Silver Spring Jazz Festival – Veterans Plaza – Sept. 12
Shipgarten Fall Festival – Tyson’s Corner – Sept. 12
Apple Harvest Cider Festival – Frederick, MD – Sept. 12
Virginia Cider Festival – Fredericksburg, Va. – Sept. 12
Fredtoberfest – 6 Bears & a Goat Brewery/Fredricksburg, Va. – Sept. 12
30th Annual (and final?) Chestertown Jazz Festival – Chestertown, MD – Sept. 12
Rockbridge Beer & Wine Festival – Lexington, Va. – Sept. 12
Bear Chase Brewing Oktoberfest – Bluemont, Va. – Sept. 12 – more details will probably be shared here
757 Battle of the Beers – Virginia Beach – Sept. 12
Bethesda Row Arts Festival – Bethesda, MD – Sept. 12-13
Wheatland Spring Oktoberfest – Waterford, Va. – Sept. 12-13
Adams Morgan Day – where else? – Sept. 13
OktoberForest Fest – Fine Creek Brewing/Powhatan, Va. – Sept. 13 

Anne Arundel County Fair – Crownsville, MD – Sept. 16-20
Alliance for the Bay Taste in DC – Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital, Capitol Hill DC – Sept. 17
Nothin’ Fancy Bluegrass Festival – Buena Vista, Va. – Sept. 17-19
Charles County Fair – La Plata, MD – Sept. 17-20
2 Silos Oktoberfest – Manassas, Va – Sept. 18-20
Washington Ukrainian Festival – Silver Spring, MD – Sept. 18-20 
St. Benedict Oktoberfest – Richmond. Va. – Sept. 18-20
Delaware Saengerbund Oktoberfest – Newark, DE – Sept. 18-20
Wundergarten Oktoberfest (scroll down for events) – NOMA DC – Sept. 18-Oct. 11
Silver Branch Brewing Oktoberfest – Silver Spring, MD – Sept. 19
Falls Church Festival/Taste of FC – Falls Church, Va. – Sept. 19
H Street Festival – NE DC – Sept. 19
Alexandria Oktoberfest – John Carlyle Square – Sept. 19
RhinO'fest – Lost Rhino Brewing, Ashburn, Va. – Sept. 19
Shipgarten Oktoberfest Kickoff – Tyson’s Corner – Sept. 19
Reston Multicultural Festival – Reston Town Center – Sept. 19
Middleburg Oktoberfest – Middleburg, Va. – Sept. 19
Lynchburg Beer, Wine & Cider Festival – Lynchburg, Va. – Sept. 19
5th Annual Susquehanna Wine & Seafood Fest – Havre De Grace, MD – Sept. 19
Festival of Grapes and Hops – Petersburg, Va. – Sept. 19
Bluemont Fair – Bluemont, Va. – Sept. 19-20
Stratford Hall Wine & Oyster Festival – Stratford, Va – Sept. 19-20
Baygrass Music Festival – Sandy Point State Park/Annapolis, MD – Sept. 19-20
Lake Anna Jazz Festival – Mineral, Va. – Sept. 19-20
Iron Blossom Festival – Richmond, Va. – Sept. 19-20

J. Millard Tawes Crab & Clambake – Crisfield, MD – Sept. 23
State Fair of Virginia – Meadow Event Park/Doswell, Va. – Sept. 24-Oct. 4
St. Theodore Greek Festival – Lanham, MD – Sept. 25-27
Ocean’s Calling Festival – Ocean City, MD – Sept. 25-27
Williamsburg Pancake Festival – Williamsburg, Va. – Sept. 25-27
Clarendon Day – Clarendon Metro Park – Sept. 26
Rocktobierfest – Rockville Town Center – Sept. 26
Shipgarten Dogtoberfest – Tyson’s Corner – Sept. 26
Lovettsville Oktoberfest – Lovettsville, Va. – Sept. 26
Maryland Microbrewery Festival – Westminster, MD – Sept. 26
Legacy Chase Steeplechase – Shawan Downs, Cockeysville, MD – Sept. 26
Fiesta DC Latino Festival – 7th & Pennsylvania Ave NW DC – Sept. 26-27
Mosaic Fall Festival – Fairfax, Va. – Sept. 26-27
Alexandria Art Festival – John Carlyle Square – Sept. 26-27
Takoma Park Folk Festival – Takoma Park, MD – Sept. 27
West Annapolis Oktoberfest – West Annapolis, MD – Sept. 27 

Calvert County Fair – Barstow, MD – Sept. 30-Oct. 4
Charlottesville's Finest & Brewer's Ball – Ting Pavillion, C’ville – Oct. 1
Virginia Oyster Week – various locations – Oct. 1-7
Frederick’s Oktoberfest – Frederick, MD Fairgrounds – Oct. 2-3
West Point Crab Festival – West Point. Va. – Oct. 2-3
60th Annual Fells Point Fun Festival – Baltimore, MD – Oct. 2-4
Waterford Fair – Waterford, Va. – Oct. 2-4
Vienna Oktoberfest – Vienna, Va. – Oct. 3
Wharf Oktoberfest/Wiener Dog Races – DC Wharf – Oct. 3
Home Rule Music Festival – Alethia Tanner Park, NE DC – Oct. 3
Taste of Bethesda – Woodmont Triangle – Oct. 3
Art on the Avenue – Del Ray/Alexandria – Oct. 3
German International School Oktoberfest – Potomac, MD – Oct. 3
Mount Airy Oktoberfest – Mount Airy, MD – Oct. 3
Quad State Beer Fest – Boonsboro, MD – Oct. 3
Manassas Fall Jubilee – Manassas. Va. – Oct. 3
Warrenton Fall Festival – Old Town Warrenton, Va. – Oct. 3
Gordonsville Fried Chicken Festival – Gordonsville, Va. – Oct. 3
Festival of the Grape – Powhaten, Va. – Oct. 3
Yorktown Wine & Oyster Festival – Yorktown. Va. – Oct. 3
Uptown Martinsville Oktoberfest – Martinsville, Va. – Oct. 3
DC Coffee Festival – Union Market, NE DC – Oct. 3-4
Takoma Park Street Festival – Takoma Park, MD – Oct. 4
Piketoberfest – North Bethesda – Oct. 4
Foxfield Fall Races – Charlottesville, Va. – Oct. 4 

Good Beer Festival – Salisbury, MD – Oct. 9-10
Maryland State BBQ Bash – Bel Air, MD – Oct. 9-10
Mt. Vernon Fall Wine Festival – George Washington’s Mt. Vernon – Oct. 9-11
Snallygaster 2026 – Downtown DC – Oct. 10
50th Annual City of Fairfax Fall Festival – Old Town FFX – Oct. 10
Germantown October Fest – Germantown Town Center – Oct. 10
5th Annual Pierogi Festival – Settle Down Easy Brewing, Falls Church, Va. – Oct. 10
Das Best Oktoberfest – State Fairgrounds/Timonium, MD – Oct. 10
Pike Fest – Penrose Square, Columbia Pike/Arlington – Oct. 10
Springfield Fall Fest – Springfield Town Center – Oct. 10
Fall Fest – Rock Hall, MD – Oct. 10
Virginia Fall Races – Middleburg, Va. – Oct. 10
Chincoteague Oyster Festival – Chincoteague Island, Va. – Oct. 10
Chesapeake Wine Festival – Chesapeake, Va. – Oct. 10
Virginia Wine & Garlic Festival – Rebec Vineyard, Amherst, Va. – Oct. 10-11
Crozet Arts & Crafts Festival – Crozet, Va. – Oct. 10—11
Kentlands Oktoberfest – Gaithersburg, MD – Oct. 11
Clifton Day – Clifton, Va. – Oct. 11
Georgetown Canal Day – wherever the Mule Yard is – Oct. 11

Yardfest – Howard University – Oct. 16
Richmond Oktoberfest – Richmond Raceway – Oct. 16-17
Boo at the Zoo – National Zoo – Oct. 16-18
MoCo Smoke Show – Kensington, MD – Oct. 17
Haymarket Day – Haymarket, Va. – Oct. 17
Berlin Oktoberfest – Berlin, MD – Oct. 17
Virginia Beach Seafood Festival – JT’s Camp Grom – Oct. 17
Tilghman Island Day – Tilghman, MD – Oct. 17
Georgetown Fall Market – Wisconsin Ave. NW – Oct. 17-18
DC Wine Fest – Union Market, NE DC – Oct. 17-18
Oktoberfest at Schifferstadt – Frederick, MD – Pct. 17-18
60th Annual U.S. Oyster Festival – St. Mary’s County Fairgrounds/Leonardtown, MD – Oct. 17-18
Turkish Festival – 6th & Pennsylvania Ave NW DC – Oct. 18
Cattail Chase Races – Brookeville, MD – Oct. 18 

Virginia Gold Cup – The Plains, Va. – Oct. 24
Shore Craft Beer Fest – Ocean City, MD – Oct. 24
Wanderland Maryland Craft Beverage Festival – Symphony Woods/Columbia, MD – Oct. 24
Mactoberfest Mac & Cheese Festival – Chesapeake Culinary Center/Denton MD – Oct. 24
Chesapeake Academy Oyster Roast – Irvington, Va. – Oct. 24
Asia in a Bite Food Festival – Tingey Plaza/Navy Yard DC – Oct. 24-25
30th Annual Del Ray Halloween Parade – Alexandria, Va. – Oct 25
Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum Pig & Oyster Festival – 24th Street Park – Oct 25
Yorktoberfest – Yorktown. Va. – Oct. 25 

Fall Back Hallo-Wine Fest – Boonsboro, MD – Oct. 31
Wharf DC DĂ­a de los Muertos Festival – SW DC – Nov. 1 

Williamsburg Beer Festival – Williamsburg, Va. – Nov. 6
Urbanna Oyster Festival – Urbanna, Va. – Nov. 6-7
Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum OysterFest – St. Michaels, MD – Nov. 7
Patterson Park Brewfest – Baltimore, MD – Nov. 7
Montpelier Races – Montpelier, Va. – Nov. 7
Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup Festival – Strasburg, Va. – Nov. 7
Thomas Jefferson Fall Wine Festival – Poplar Forest/Lynchburg, Va. – Nov. 7 

Maryland Irish Festival – State Fair Grounds/Timonium – Nov. 13-15
Sykesville Craft Beer Festival – Sykesville, MD – Nov. 14
Fisherman's Museum Oyster Roast – Reedville, Va. – Nov. 14

Whiskey Washback – The Schuyler, Downtown DC – Nov. 20
Old Ebbitt Oyster Riot
 – Downtown DC – Nov. 21-22 (tickets on sale Sept. 8)

Tuesday, August 4, 2026

42 Today; Festivitity Tomorrow

We're bringing you this set of 42 jobs & internships a day earlier than usual to make room for our Festival Season 2026 compendium tomorrow. [edit: this post was supposed to appear on Wednesday but we inadvertently hit the publish button on Tuesday a.m. – the Festival rundown will publish on Thursday].

1) Space-tech company Umbra is recruiting for a Director of Congressional Affairs with 12+ years of combined congressional, executive branch, and/or industry government affairs experience along with senior-level Capitol Hill service with an intelligence, armed services, or commerce committee or as a senior defense/national security policy advisor – $225k-$275k – see also main career page 

2) Roblox is seeking a Senior Director, Policy Communications with 12+ years of experience in public affairs, policy communications & crisis communications as well as understanding of global regulations and policies for diverse age ranges of users and creators – $294k-$350k – see also main career page 

3) The Center for Science in the Public Interest is seeking a part-time, remote-based Social Media Content Creator to pitch, ideate, draft scripts, film/create, and edit 2–3 short-form videos per week, primarily for TikTok w/ content repurposed to other channels – $3,000/mo. – see also main career page 

4-5) American Diabetes Association (scroll to find)

6) American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees Maryland Council 3Legislative & Political Advocate – $60k-$92k – Baltimore, MD

7) American Hospital AssociationSenior Associate Director, Media Relations – $97k-$145k

8) BAE SystemsDirector, Leadership & Change Communications – $138k-$235k

9) Center for Responsible LendingDirector, Federal Policy – $117k-$153k – see also main career page 

10) Competitive Enterprise InstituteCounsel, Litigation & Regulatory Affairs – $130k-$150k – JD required – search managed by Talent Market 

11-13) Council on Foreign Relations

14) Dept. for Professional Employees, AFL-CIOCommunications Manager – $70k-$80k

15) Dept. of Transportation – Public Affairs Specialist – $85k-$158k – apply by Aug. 27; subject to early closure

16) Edelman PRSenior Account Exec, Health – $60k-$80k – DC, New York, Atlanta, Chicago, Austin, Dallas, San Francisco or Seattle

17-18) Easterseals DC MD VA – see also main career page

19) Economic Development AdministrationCongressional Affairs Specialist – $120k-$156k – apply by Aug. 10 

20) Falls Church Public SchoolsDirector of Communications – see also main career page 

21) Hispanic FederationPolicy Analyst – $60k-$65k – bilingual w/ Spanish preferred – apply by Aug. 30 – see also main career page

22 ) Institute of Makers of ExplosivesDirector of Communications & Marketing – $110k-$125k

23) International Fund for Animal WelfareProgram Assistant, Policy & Advocacy – $24-$27/hr – see also main career page 

24) Insured Retirement InstituteChief Government & Political Affairs Officer – $300k-$350k – see also main career page 

25) Mystery national advocacy groupDirector of Government Affairs – $140k – search managed by The Choice, Inc. 

26-27) National Breast Cancer Coalition – see also main career page

28) National Multifamily Housing Council Vice President of Legislative Advocacy  

29) PfizerSenior Director, International Trade & Market Access Policy – apply by Aug. 14

30-33) OpenAI

34) Retail Industry Leaders AssociationDirector, Government Affairs – $90k-$115k – see also main career page 

35) Rock the VoteInterns – Fall 2026 – $18/hr – apply by Aug. 12

36) R Street Institute Director of Communications – $115k-$135k – see also main career page 

37) SAIC Public Affairs Specialist supporting the Office of the Under Secretary of War for Research & Engineering – Secret clearance required

38) United Food & Commercial Workers Union Local 400Communications Manager – $70k-$80k

39) U.S. House of RepresentativesPublic Information Specialist – $73k – apply by Aug. 15

40) … and finally: the trade deadline has passed but your Washington Nationals aren’t done with trying to improve the roster as evidenced by this Communications Coordinator role – cap-friendly $24/hr pay grade is part of the deal

41) … and finally, part 2: did you know that 500-year-old Italian firearms pioneer Beretta’s U.S. HQ is in nearby Accokeek, MD? They’re recruiting for a Director, Marketing & Content with 10+ years of experience in marketing, with a strong focus in the areas of branding, Influencers marketing and content production; additional skills in PR management & events a plus – see also main career page 

42) … and finally, part 3: sign on with the Ocean Conservancy as a Communications Strategist focusing on ghost gear (lost, abandoned or discarded fishing gear) which is pound-for-pound the deadliest form of debris to marine life – part-time; 2-year contract – $90-$100/hr – remote-based in DC, MD, VA, AK, CA, FL, OR, TX, WA or WV – see also main career page

Best wishes for a cheerful National Oyster Day today, plus a superb rest-of-week & weekend from your favorite™ public affairs jobs resource! Here's a preview of this weekend's happenings from tomorrow's Festival Season listings:

Monday, August 3, 2026

Oysters & More Oysters & Bikes

We’ll start your Monday with a look ahead to Wednesday’s National Oyster Day (Aug. 5) & note that the Old Ebbitt Grill & some Clyde's locations are offering oyster & seafood happy hour pricing all day; we're guessing some other local oyster dens are also celebrating (update: Hanks Oyster Bar locations are also doing all-day HH). Virginia Oyster Week is set for Oct. 1-7 and legendary Old Ebbitt 2026 Oyster Riot has been officially announced for Nov. 21-22; tickets on sale Sept. 8.  

Also looking ahead: while working on our 2026 Festival Season run-down (publishing Thursday!), we came across this Aslin Bikes & Beers ride & imbibe event set for Aug. 29, which were highlighting today since it's currently 85% sold out – Aslin's long-standing Herndon outpost is the start-&-finish point.

Now dive into the jobs!

1) Venture-backed defense-tech company Shield AI is seeking a Communications Associate with 2-4 years of experience in defense technology, corporate communications, or public relations – $76k-$110k – see also main career page 

2) Gartner is recruiting for a Senior Director Analyst, Public Affairs Leadership with 12+ years of relevant experience that demonstrates a first-hand understanding of the challenges facing heads of communications as leaders – $172k-$205k – Arlington, Va. or remote-based – see also main career page 

3) Capital One has shared this very fresh Director, Global Enterprise Communications role suited for candidates with with 8+ years of communications experience that includes managing & developing staff; background designing and executing integrated communications strategies include high-impact executive and internal associate engagement preferred – $173k-$217k – McLean or Richmond, Va.

4) AccentureMedia Relations Manager, Health & Public Services – $87k-$224k – Arlington, Va. & other major-to-medium-sized cities across U.S.

5-6) Aerospace Industries Association (scroll to find)

7) American Enterprise InstituteEditorial Associate or Editor – $58k-$65k

8) American Financial Services AssociationManager, Federal Government Affairs – $70k-$85k

9-11) American Institute of Architects – see also main career page

12-16) Capitol Hill

17) Center on Budget & Policy PrioritiesResearch Assistant/Research Associate, Health & Housing Policy – $55k-$63k

18) Disney/National GeographicTravel Editor – $79k-$106k – digital content focus

19) EarthjusticeStewardship Specialist, Principal Gifts – $96k-$119k – DC, New York, Miami or Philadelphia – apply by Aug. 23

20) Fairfax County Federation of Teachers Communications Director – $80k-$90k – more about FCTC here

 21) Georgetown UniversityHealth Communications Specialist supporting the Office of Minority Health & Health Disparities Research – $44k-$73k

22-23) George Washington University

24-25) German Marshall Fund of the U.S. – see also main career page

26) Immune Deficiency FoundationSocial Media & Engagement Manager – $60k-$70k – remote-based – see also main career page

27-28) Information Technology Industry Council – scroll to find

29) Johns Hopkins UniversityAssociate Director, Digital Marketing supporting the Office of Alumni Relations – $85k-$95k – Baltimore, MD

30-33) Meta

34-35) Montgomery County

36) Mystery DC law firmSenior Policy Specialist – $95k-$185k – search managed by the Ford Agency

37) Mystery national membership organizationMarketing Communications Specialist – 6-month term – search managed by Creative Circle 

38) Mystery social service nonprofit serving the DMV regionDirector of Development – $100k – search managed by Elite Personnel 

39) National Motor Freight Traffic AssociationDigital Marketing Coordinator 

40-41) Northrop Grumman

42-43) Orchestra – see also main career page

44) Project on Government OversightFact Checker/Editor – $68k-$80k – see also main career page 

45-46) Public Knowledge – see also main career page

47) Radiological Society of North AmericaGovernment Relations Manager – $70k-$75k – DC or Oak Brook, IL – see also main career page 

48) Sempra InfrastructureU.S. Federal Public Affairs Manager – $173k-$305k – see also main career page 

49) Sinclair Broadcasting/WJLA TVGeneral Assignment Reporter – $43-$53/hr

50) Southern Poverty Law Center Lead, Public and Media Relations Strategist – $78k+ – DC, New Orleans, Miami, Montgomery, or Jackson, MS – see also main career page 

51) Tatitlek Corp.Public Affairs/Media Relations Specialist supporting the Diplomatic Security Service – Secret clearance required

52) United Motorcoach AssociationDirector of Marketing & Communications 

53) Washingtonian MagazineAssistant Research Editor – $45k-$50k

54) … and finally: the White House Historical Association is recruiting for a Managing Director (pdf) with experience serving as in a senior managerial position at a museum, nonprofit organization, or business, as well as the ability to provide strong leadership & vision for the 33,000-square-foot gallery & exhibit space – $160k+ – alternate listing here – search managed by DSG|Koya  

55) … and finally, part 2: Fox is recruiting for Fall 2026 TMZ Interns to help chase down Members of Congress & whatever other hijinks go with the gig – could be fun & at least you’ll get some exercise – $20/hr