Public Affairs Specialist

Drug Enforcement Administration • San Antonio, TX

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About The Position

This position is with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), San Antonio Division. Its primary purpose is to direct internal and external communications for the San Antonio Field Division. Working closely with local division leadership, the incumbent serves as the primary media spokesperson for DEA programs and activities within the Division. The role plans and implements media programs, coordinates communications with partner agencies, advises management on public information matters, and directs outreach events intended to build public and media interest.

Applicants may qualify at the GS-12 or GS-13 level based on specialized experience. GS-12 applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-11; GS-13 applicants must have one year equivalent to GS-12. The vacancy has no education requirement. Applicants must also meet applicable time-in-grade requirements. Employment requires U.S. citizenship, a successful background investigation, the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, random drug testing, and successful completion of E-Verify requirements.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Successful completion of a background investigation is required.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
• Subject to random drug testing.
• Must successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check.
• Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with Selective Service or exempt.
• GS-12: One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-11, including drafting press releases, media statements, talking points, reporter responses, or attributable quotes; advising management on public information, media inquiries, interview preparation, or engagement with news organizations; and developing and maintaining professional relationships with news media representatives.
• GS-12: In addition to the listed core experience, experience in at least one of the specified areas is required: media spokesperson or spokesperson support; direct engagement with news media through inquiries, statements, interviews, press conferences, or briefings; or support for media relations/public information programs that increase awareness and understanding of an organization's mission, programs, operations, or accomplishments.
• GS-13: One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-12, including writing communications or briefing materials on critical incidents, emerging issues, or organizational priorities; advising management around high-stakes public engagements; and developing professional relationships with news media representatives.
• GS-13: In addition to the listed core experience, experience in at least one of the specified areas is required: media spokesperson or spokesperson support; interviews, press conferences, briefings, or real-time responses on complex, sensitive, high-profile, or rapidly developing matters; or developing or executing media relations and strategic communication plans for such matters.
• Qualifying specialized experience may be paid or unpaid, including volunteer work.
• Must meet time-in-grade and time-after-competitive-appointment requirements by the announcement closing date.

Responsibilities

• Plan, develop, and implement media programs for DEA leaders and the Division, which covers multiple states, to increase understanding and support for the mission.
• Coordinate local press conferences, statements, and press releases with appropriate partner agencies during joint law enforcement investigations.
• Advise management at various Division levels on public information matters.
• Plan and direct special outreach events, ceremonies, tours, and other activities intended to develop public and media interest within the Division.
• Serve as the primary media spokesperson for DEA programs and activities within the Division.

Benefits

• Federal employees and their families have access to a comprehensive benefits package; specific benefits depend on position type and should be confirmed with the hiring agency.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed