Key Responsibilities

Public Affairs Planning and Execution

• Develop and implement comprehensive public affairs strategies to communicate DoD policies, operations, and programs to internal and external audiences.
• Craft and disseminate press releases, talking points, speeches, and other communication materials for public and senior leadership use.
• Build public trust and understanding by ensuring consistent, accurate, and mission-aligned messaging across all communication platforms.

Media Relations Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries, providing timely and accurate responses while adhering to DoD policies on classified information.
• Maintain and foster relationships with media outlets, journalists, and public affairs officials to promote positive coverage of DoD operations.
• Prepare and coach leadership for media interviews, press conferences, and public engagements.

Strategic Communication and Messaging

• Proactively identify opportunities to deliver the DoD’s message, highlight successes, and counter disinformation or misinformation.
• Research audience trends to develop strategies for communicating effectively to diverse stakeholders, including military personnel, policymakers, and the general public.
• Coordinate communication campaigns to enhance public knowledge of DoD programs, partnerships, and initiatives.

Internal Communications and Stakeholder Engagement

• Support internal communication efforts by creating newsletters, memos, and other resources to engage DoD staff and stakeholders.
• Organize and oversee community outreach programs, town halls, and engagement activities.
• Ensure classified information is handled securely and excluded from public communications materials.

Risk Mitigation and Crisis Communication

• Develop and execute public affairs plans during crises or emergencies, ensuring clear and decisive messaging aligned with DoD’s objectives.
• Lead media response efforts and provide expert guidance on managing public perception during high-pressure situations.
• Monitor news outlets and public sentiment to identify risks and recommend mitigation strategies.

Reporting and Analysis

• Prepare after-action reports to evaluate effectiveness of communication strategies and campaigns, identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Track media coverage and public sentiment, compiling analytics and insights for leadership review.
• Present findings and recommendations to senior officials to influence communication strategies.

Key Competencies

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills to convey messages clearly and persuasively.
• Knowledge of DoD policies, public affairs regulations, and security protocols surrounding information dissemination.
• Proficiency in handling high-pressure situations, including media crises and emergency communications.
• Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with various stakeholders, including leadership, media personnel, and community groups.
• Capability to balance transparency with discretion, safeguarding classified information while ensuring public comprehension.

Basic Qualifications

• Security Clearance: Active Top Secret clearance with eligibility for Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI).
• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Political Science, or related field. Equivalent military or professional experience may be considered.
• Experience:
• Minimum of 6 years in public affairs, strategic communications, or media relations, preferably in DoD or government environments.
• Demonstrated experience developing communication strategies and managing public affairs efforts.
• Certifications:
• Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) or similar certifications are preferred but not required.
• Familiarity with social media management tools and analytics platforms is an asset.