Media Research Analyst

Pantheon Data • Washington, DC

17h • Onsite

About The Position

The Media Research Analyst supports a high-visibility defense organization's public affairs and strategic communication objectives by monitoring, analyzing, and reporting on the information environment across traditional media, digital and social media platforms, trade publications, and influential commentators. The Analyst provides timely situational awareness, sentiment assessments, and trend analysis to support leadership decision-making, message development, and strategic communications planning.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Political Science, International Affairs, or related field.
• Minimum of three years of experience in media analysis, public affairs, strategic communications, journalism, intelligence analysis, or related discipline.
• Experience monitoring and analyzing traditional, digital, and social media.
• Knowledge of media analytics tools and content monitoring platforms.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to synthesize large volumes of information into concise, actionable products.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work effectively remotely in cross-functional teams.
• Ability to meet deadlines and produce quality work.
• Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements.
• Secret Clearance is required for continued employment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience supporting Department of Defense, Department of the Navy, or federal government communications programs.
• Familiarity with defense, maritime, and national security issues.
• Experience using media monitoring and analytics platforms such as Meltwater, Cision, Sprinklr, or similar tools.
• Understanding of information operations, misinformation/disinformation trends, and strategic communications principles.
• Active Secret security clearance or ability to obtain and maintain one.

Responsibilities

• Monitor national, regional, and international news outlets, broadcast media, and online publications for issues affecting programs, operations, and maritime interests.
• Track coverage across defense, maritime, and industry trade publications to identify emerging narratives, trends, and stakeholder perspectives.
• Analyze media tone, themes, and message penetration to assess public understanding and perception.
• Identify potential reputational risks and emerging issues requiring communication response.
• Monitor social media platforms, blogs, podcasts, forums, and other digital channels for conversations relevant to missions and programs.
• Assess sentiment, engagement trends, and narrative development across online communities.
• Identify viral content, misinformation, disinformation, and other information threats that may impact public understanding or stakeholder confidence.
• Produce social media analytics and trend reports to inform communication strategies.
• Track commentary from defense analysts, journalists, academics, think tanks, retired military leaders, and other influential voices shaping public discourse.
• Evaluate opinions and narratives presented by subject matter experts and media personalities within the defense and maritime communities.
• Assess the impact of influential commentators on stakeholder perceptions and policy discussions.
• Maintain awareness of key voices and emerging influencers affecting the information environment.
• Produce daily media summaries, executive briefings, and issue reports (one key deliverable due at 0600).
• Develop media assessments, sentiment analyses, and communication effectiveness metrics.
• Prepare rapid-response reports for high-visibility events or emerging issues.
• Provide recommendations regarding messaging opportunities, audience engagement, and potential communication risks.
• Support after-action reviews and communication campaign assessments.
• Maintain awareness of Department of War, Department of the Navy, congressional, industry, and public stakeholder interests.
• Monitor issues related to shipbuilding, maintenance, acquisition, readiness, maritime operations, and defense policy.
• Coordinate with public affairs personnel and communication teams to ensure awareness of significant media developments.
• Support a dynamic operational environment requiring timely production of media monitoring products, executive summaries, and communication assessments.
• Provide flexibility to support nontraditional work hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, as mission requirements dictate.
• Maintain the ability to respond to emerging events, breaking news, crisis communications, and high-visibility issues to ensure delivery of time-sensitive products and situational awareness reports.
• Support surge operations and short-notice tasking to meet customer requirements and reporting deadlines.
• Coordinate with government personnel and communication teams to ensure continuity of media monitoring and analysis during periods of heightened operational tempo.

Benefits

• Competitive salaries and benefits
• SmartBenefits through the Washington Metro Area Transportation Authority
• Tuition assistance may be available for continuing education expenses and certifications related to their position.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level