Director of Communications at Firehawk Aerospace Inc – Addison, Texas

Location: Addison, TX (preferred) or Washington, DC

About Firehawk Aerospace
Firehawk Aerospace is revolutionizing rocket propulsion systems through advanced manufacturing and innovative engineering. Our mission is to deliver safer, more reliable, and cost-effective solutions for space exploration and defense. As a fast-growing startup in the aerospace and defense sector, we are seeking a dynamic Director of Communications to lead our strategic communications efforts and elevate Firehawk’s brand and mission across government, industry, and public audiences.

Job Summary
The Director of Communications will be responsible for developing and executing Firehawk Aerospace’s comprehensive communications strategy, ensuring alignment with our business objectives and brand identity. This role requires a seasoned professional with deep experience in the defense sector, strategic communications, and media relations. The ideal candidate will be a builder, capable of creating scalable processes, managing external and internal communications, and driving impactful storytelling about Firehawk’s groundbreaking technology and achievements.

Key Responsibilities
Strategic Communications: Develop and implement a strategic roadmap for communications, including KPIs to measure success, while ensuring alignment with Firehawk’s vision and objectives.
Media Relations: Build and maintain relationships with defense, aerospace, and technology reporters. Secure high-impact media coverage and manage press releases, announcements, and thought leadership pieces.
Press Releases: Draft, edit, and distribute press releases to highlight major milestones, product launches, partnerships, and other key achievements.
Storytelling and Content Creation: Translate complex technical concepts into compelling narratives for diverse audiences, including government, industry, and public stakeholders.
Conference and Event Representation: Represent Firehawk Aerospace at industry conferences and events, sharing stories about our technology and achievements.
Internal Communications: Collaborate with leadership to craft internal messaging that aligns with external communications and reinforces company culture and values.
Crisis Communications: Manage sensitive communications, including approvals from government entities such as the Air Force or General Dynamics, ensuring compliance with timelines and regulatory requirements.
Process Development: Build scalable communications processes, including internship programs and content channels, to support long-term growth.

Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field.
Minimum of 10 years of experience in strategic communications, with a strong focus on the defense sector.
Proven track record of managing media relations and securing impactful coverage in defense and aerospace industries.
Experience developing and executing comprehensive communications strategies across government and private sectors.
Strong understanding of the defense industry, including familiarity with government approval processes and timelines.
Exceptional writing, storytelling, and editing skills, with the ability to craft compelling narratives for technical and non-technical audiences.
Willingness to travel (approximately 25–35%) to conferences, events, and test sites.
U.S. Citizenship required to comply with ITAR regulations.

Preferred Qualifications
Existing media relationships within the defense and aerospace sectors.
Experience translating technical engineering concepts into clear and engaging messaging.
Background in startups or high-growth environments, with a builder mindset.
Familiarity with video production and social media content creation.

ITAR Requirements:
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements:
Employees in these positions must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and to use standard office equipment, including a computer; stamina to sit and to maintain attention to detail despite interruptions; may occasionally lift/carry/push/pull up to 25 pounds; may require minimal walking, standing for extended amounts of time, climbing, crouching, and/or bending; and vision to read printed materials and a computer screen, and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. May require the ability to travel by air or auto. May require the use of personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coat. These positions may be expected to work varying shifts and hours to ensure successful operation of activities in the organization.

Security Clearance:
May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance at the appropriate level. Requires U.S. Citizenship. Must also be able to satisfy federal government requirements for access to government information, and having dual citizenship may preclude you from being able to meet this requirement.

Benefits at Firehawk Aerospace
At Firehawk Aerospace, we are committed to supporting the well-being of our employees and their families. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to provide peace of mind and help you thrive both personally and professionally.
•Health Coverage: We offer 100% employer-paid medical premiums for employees and up to 75% coverage for dependents under select plans, with additional options for PPO and HDHP plans. Coverage begins the first of the month following your hire date.
•Dental and Vision Plans: Affordable dental and vision plans with extensive coverage options, including preventive care, orthodontics, and allowances for contacts and frames.
•Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Access to free, confidential services, including counseling, legal consultations, wellness coaching, and virtual concierge services to support your work-life balance.
•Flexible Work Schedule: Enjoy a 9/80 schedule option, allowing for greater flexibility and work-life balance.
•On-Site Perks: Complimentary snacks and refreshments to keep you energized throughout the day.
•Professional Growth: Mentorship opportunities with industry-leading engineers and engagement in cutting-edge projects at the forefront of aerospace innovation.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
Firehawk Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Firehawk Aerospace is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.