Public Affairs Specialist 

MUST HAVE A CURRENT SECRET SECURITY CLEARANCE

QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience working with the press is a must. 
• The ability to research information, monitor media and the development of U.S. democracy promotion and human rights protection policies and global communications in this field.
• The ability to digest data and draft press materials, such as statements or remarks.
• Experience with these software products: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access); Microsoft Outlook; Adobe Products, G-Suite.
• Knowledge of U.S. foreign affairs/policy, especially pertaining to democracy promotion and human rights protection.
• Knowledge of the Department of State policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of communications and public relations theories and best practices.
• Knowledge of documentaries, podcasts, and other story-telling approaches.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Support Press Guidance and Daily Press Cycle: Fully engage in the Department-wide process of press guidance collection on a number of regional and thematic portfolios as assigned. Draft, edit, coordinate, and clear related materials—including press guidance, media notes, statements, fact sheets, written responses to media inquiries, written materials for public release, and other documents as assigned. Liaise with counterparts in DRL policy offices and in the Press Offices of the regional and functional bureaus, in the Bureau of Global Public Affairs, and with interagency partners as required. Demonstrate strong command of U.S. policy and communications strategies in the development of these materials, and strong communication and interpersonal skills in coordinating their clearance. Inform and advise counterparts in DRL policy offices of best practices in developing and clearing communications materials. Respond to journalists with final, cleared material as directed by office leadership.
• Support for Interviews, Public Speaking Requests, and Major Events: Assist in the preparation of department and DRL principals and other officials for media engagements, domestic public appearances. Draft, edit, clear, and coordinate background briefing papers, communications strategy planning documents, remarks, speeches, building blocks, and supporting materials for public release in advance of such engagements, as appropriate. Support all logistical and technological requirements of such engagements as required, including for prep sessions/murder boards. Similarly support the press elements of certain major media events—such as the rollout of Congressionally-mandated reports—as required. Pitch activities for DRL principals’ engagement to outside media and other professional contacts, in coordination with office leadership. Liaise with counterparts in DRL policy offices and in the Press Offices of the regional and functional bureaus, in Bureau of Global Public Affairs, and with interagency partners as required. Demonstrate strong command of U.S. policy and communications strategies in the development of these materials, and strong communication and interpersonal skills in coordinating their clearance.
• Public Diplomacy Support: In coordination with the PD team, ensure messaging across public diplomacy products, activities, and platforms is consistent with bureau and Department strategic messaging. As needed, support the development of public diplomacy content and participate in public diplomacy activities; and back up press officer colleagues as needed.
• Congressional Outreach Coordination: In coordination with the PPD team, ensure messaging across public diplomacy products, activities, and platforms is consistent with bureau and Department press messaging. As needed, in coordination with the Congressional Liaison, ensure DRL and Department press messaging is consistent with Congressional outreach products. As needed, provide the Congressional Liaison with the latest press points on key issues and raise upcoming news-making activities by the Department and/or DRL.
 

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

If you do not find interest in this opportunity but know of someone who may, we kindly ask that you refer the individual to RWD Consulting, LLC by forwarding this job posting.


Established in 2004, RWD Consulting, LLC (RWD) provides tomorrow’s solutions today. We achieve mission-critical results for federal, public and private sectors through our core competencies: Data Management & Analytics, Information Technology, Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Facility Operations & Management, and Project Management, Administrative & Technical Support. Our services enhance our clients’ capabilities and allow them to focus on their mission and goals.

RWD Consulting, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.