Public Affairs Specialist

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers • Huntington, WV

3d • Onsite

About The Position

This position is with the Public Affairs Office of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Huntington, West Virginia. The Public Affairs Specialist directs the district’s public affairs program and devises and executes a comprehensive public information program. The role manages communication efforts across media relations, public outreach, and command information to prevent misconceptions and address public affairs issues. The specialist manages news media requests, prepares subject matter experts for media engagement, researches and responds to inquiries from the public, interest groups, and other organizations about agency policies and activities, and manages internal and external District website content for accuracy and appropriateness.

The position is at the GS-12 level. Applicants must qualify through experience, with no substitution of education for the required experience. The position requires one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level, as well as 52 weeks of Federal service at GS-11 or equivalent for applicants who have held a GS position within the last 52 weeks. Appointment may require a suitability or fitness determination and background investigation. The incumbent must sign a drug-testing condition of employment and pass a pre-employment drug test. A one-year probationary period is required.

Requirements

• One year of specialized experience writing or editing information materials for target audiences through traditional or non-traditional media, such as news and feature articles, press releases, speeches, social media posts, advisories, and scripts.
• Experience writing or implementing communication plans or guidance that include elements such as key messages, talking points, and Q&As.
• Experience performing media relations activities, such as facilitating media interviews, pitching to the media, or working with subject matter experts to respond to media queries.
• For applicants who have held a General Schedule position within the last 52 weeks: 52 weeks of Federal service at the next lower grade or equivalent (GS-11).
• Must qualify using experience alone; education cannot substitute for the required experience.
• Must sign DA Form 5019-R, Condition of Employment for Certain Civilian Positions Identified as Critical under the Drug Testing Program, and pass a pre-employment drug test.
• Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination based on a background investigation.
• Must provide proof of U.S. citizenship.
• Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
• Must complete a one-year probationary period.
• Direct deposit of pay is required.
• Applicants must meet at least one of the listed employment authority categories and provide required eligibility documents.

Responsibilities

• Direct the district’s public affairs program, including devising and executing a comprehensive public information program.
• Manage and synchronize media, public outreach, and command information efforts to prevent misconceptions and address public affairs issues.
• Manage news media requests and prepare subject matter experts for media engagement.
• Research and respond to inquiries from the public, interest groups, and other organizations regarding agency policies and activities.
• Manage internal and external District website content to ensure accuracy and appropriateness.

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: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed