Public Affairs Specialist

Agriculture, Rural Development • Richmond, VA

5d

About The Position

This position serves as the Public Information Officer (PIO) for the Virginia State Office, developing and administering a statewide public information program designed to maximize public exposure and affirm the mission and objectives of Rural Development (RD). The role provides information about RD programs and services, gathers information about community needs and stakeholder perspectives, and supports communication with the public, officials, media, and other organizations.

Requirements

• For the GS-11 level, one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GS-9 or its non-Federal equivalent, demonstrating experience in one or more of the following: writing, editing, and reviewing news advisories, releases, government or professional correspondence, talking points, or questions and answers; implementing organizational communication plans; developing written communications about organizational programs; or analyzing information program materials and recommending improvements to program information delivery.
• For the GS-11 level, qualifying education may substitute for experience: a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree; three full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree; or an LL.M. if related. A combination of qualifying education and specialized experience may also qualify. A transcript must be uploaded when relying on education.
• For the GS-12 level, one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GS-11 or its non-Federal equivalent, demonstrating experience designing, planning, directing, or advising on an agency or organizational public affairs program; analyzing alternative approaches and advising management on major aspects of the program; developing and disseminating information materials to the general public or specialized groups; writing annual reports to Congress; speechwriting; and developing and writing for the web. Education cannot substitute for experience at this grade level.
• Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the announcement closing date, including applicable time-in-grade requirements.
• Current federal employees applying for a promotion must have 52 weeks of service at the next lower grade in the normal line of progression.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or U.S. national.
• Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with Selective Service or exempt.
• Must pass the required background investigation and/or fingerprint check and remain subject to continuous vetting.
• Must use direct deposit for federal payments.
• Must successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check.
• Must serve a one-year probationary period and receive written certification that continued employment advances the public interest to remain employed after the probationary period.

Responsibilities

• Design, convene, and conduct public involvement programs and meetings to gather information on community needs, stakeholder viewpoints, and local community development activities.
• Provide in-depth information about Rural Development programs.
• Prepare and coordinate responses to inquiries and concerns about Rural Development programs, policies, and activities from the public, public officials, stakeholders, community groups, and special interest groups.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with media representatives, state legislative delegations, and state and local governments to ensure broad dissemination of information about Rural Development programs and services.
• Coordinate and develop newsletters and articles for non-Rural Development publications, journals, magazines, and newsletters concerning the nature and purpose of State Rural Development programs and activities.

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: Ph.D. or professional degree