Public Affairs and Media Engagement Specialist

Key Responsibilities:

• Research and draft public affairs guidance, responses to media inquiries, and talking points on key issues affecting the DoD client.
• Develop and coordinate official responses to media queries in conjunction with the Communication and Public Affairs Directorate, additional staff sections, and higher headquarters.
• When authorized and under U.S. government supervision, respond to media inquiries on a non-attributable basis.
• Support media operations surge requirements, including 24/7 shift work during crisis or high-visibility events as directed.
• Monitor traditional and digital media coverage relevant to the organization’s mission, and provide real-time feedback and analysis to leadership.
• Alert leadership to breaking media coverage and assist in correcting inaccurate reporting.
• Plan and conduct conference calls with public affairs counterparts across the client’s enterprise and higher headquarters.
• Provide media training support to key senior leaders and designated spokespersons.
• Develop and prepare briefing materials and read-ahead packages for senior leaders ahead of key media engagements.
• Produce timely rollup summaries and after-action reports on significant media events and engagements.
• Assist senior personnel in the planning and execution of weekly public affairs briefings, including talking point development, note taking, and real-time research.

Qualifications:

• Current Top Secret security clearance with SCI eligibility.
• Bachelor’s degree.
• Five or more years of experience developing public affairs plans and media campaigns for government, military, or similar organizations.
• Strong proficiency with the AP Stylebook.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook).
• Current U.S. passport.
• Demonstrated sound judgment in high-visibility, time-sensitive, and politically complex environments.
• Excellent organizational, time management, writing, editorial, and presentation skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with senior military and civilian leaders and work in a multidisciplinary team environment.

Desired:

• Defense Information School (DINFOS) Public Affairs Officer Qualification Course (PAOQC) or equivalent.
• Experience in military public affairs at the service, joint, or headquarters level.
• Experience living or working in regions pertinent to the client’s mission, including the Middle East or Central Asia.
• Joint Professional Military Education (JPME).