Communications Assistant

Duration: May 2026 – November 2026

Location: Des Moines, Iowa

Salary: $4,134 per month

About The Iowa House Democrats & This Role

The Iowa House Democrats are now accepting applications for a press specialist to serve through the November 3 election to support Democratic candidates in Iowa. The press specialist will provide communications support for multiple candidates — including building relationships with candidates and key reporters, identifying and executing earned media opportunities, and drafting press releases and other materials as needed.

This is a full-time, in-person role based in Des Moines, Iowa.

People of color, people with disabilities, women, veterans, and LGBTQ+ candidates are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Performing daily communications functions — including media monitoring; drafting press materials including advisories, press releases, statements, and op-eds; and preparing candidates and other spokespeople for media events.
• Working with paid media vendors and Caucus leadership to identify press useful for paid media and pitch related stories.
• Managing campaign media lists and developing relationships with key Iowa reporters.
• Providing recommendations on proactive earned media opportunities and implementing them accordingly.
• Identifying and executing rapid response opportunities, including pitching and interfacing directly with reporters, editors, and producers on behalf of the candidates.
• Conceptualizing, organizing, and managing press events.
• Advising on strategy for the candidates’ social media platforms as it relates to getting press; for example, determining when it might make sense to share a statement or reach out to a reporter via social media.
• Coordinating with campaigns, state legislative caucuses, partner organizations, and consultants on a regular basis.
• Other duties as determined.
  
  

Qualifications

• Communications experience required; prior campaign experience strongly preferred.
• Strong writing and interpersonal skills and comfort working in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong knowledge of the current media landscape, including a sense of what’s newsworthy, familiarity with a wide range of news outlets and journalists, and experience directly pitching and interacting with reporters.
• High level of organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and ability to multitask.
• Technical fluency with tools such as Google Suite, Microsoft Office Suite, and social media platforms including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
• Access to a vehicle/reliable transportation and a valid U.S. Driver’s License.
  
  

Strongly Preferred But Not Required

• Work experience in or familiarity with Iowa.
• Work experience in a state legislature or state legislative campaign.
• Existing media relationships in Iowa markets.
  
  

Position Details & Compensation

• Full-time, beginning May 2026 and ending late November 2026, including some night and weekend work as necessary.
• Salary: $4,134 per month plus additional benefits.
• Please note: This role requires access to a vehicle and a valid U.S. Driver’s License.
  
  

How To Apply

Please submit a resume, references and salary requirements to Addie Cosgrove, Iowa House Victory Fund Executive Director, acosgrove@iowademocrats.org.

For accommodations, please reach out to Addie at acosgrove@iowademocrats.org.

While we accept applications on a rolling basis, priority will be given to candidates who apply by June 1, 2026.

The Iowa Democratic Party is an equal opportunity employer and employs without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, family medical status or genetic information, military service, age, national origin, ancestry, marital status, height, weight, creed, economic status or disability.