Public Affairs Specialist

Army National Guard Units • Camp Dodge Military Reservation, IA

26d • Onsite

About The Position

This is a Title 32 excepted-service position with the Iowa Army National Guard, restricted to current members of the Iowa Army National Guard. The position is located at CSAR in Johnston, Iowa, and is classified as GS-1035-9. The role develops and distributes public-affairs content, responds to information requests, evaluates media coverage and public reaction, and recommends improvements to communication campaigns. It also involves working with program specialists and building relationships with government personnel, community groups, and other audiences. The selectee must serve in a compatible military assignment and wear the military uniform.

Requirements

• Current membership in the Iowa Army National Guard and a compatible military assignment are required; the selectee must wear the military uniform.
• Military rank eligibility includes officers, warrant officers, and enlisted members at O-3 and below.
• Meet minimum requirements through experience, education, or training in administrative, professional, investigative, or technical work; evaluating information or using analytical skills to communicate effectively; compiling reports, letters, and memoranda and conveying information through person-to-person contacts; and using computers and automation systems.
• For GS-1035-9, have one year of experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, or qualifying education substitution.
• Have experience, education, or training involving writing and communication principles, methods, and techniques related to an agency's public affairs; applying and adapting knowledge in strictly controlled agency situations; writing about routine, non-controversial events; responding appropriately and promptly to information requests about agency programs and services; and participating in meetings with specialized groups to hear and understand feedback on agency programs.
• Provide a resume that clearly and specifically describes the applicant's own experience and addresses the minimum and specialized experience requirements. Verbatim resumes will not be considered.
• Obtain and maintain the security clearance required for the position. If the selectee does not have the applicable clearance when hired, apply for it within 30 days of the start date.
• Serve a two-year trial period, or a one-year trial period for veterans' preference eligibles.
• Submit complete application materials by October 23, 2026.
• Participate in mandatory direct deposit.

Responsibilities

• Develop news releases and feature articles about Guard-sponsored activities, events, and presentation ceremonies, and distribute them to local and national print and broadcast media.
• Respond orally and in writing to information requests from Guard members, member associations, external audiences, and special-interest groups.
• Assess whether requested information is sensitive or controversial and coordinate its release with a senior Public Affairs Specialist when appropriate.
• Evaluate local media programming about National Guard events, activities, and communication campaigns to identify potential public-relations issues; advise management on potential causes and suggest solutions.
• Gather and analyze public-reaction data about communication campaigns, draw conclusions, and submit recommendations to the Public Affairs Officer for improving campaign appeal to the general public or a target audience.
• Prepare and disseminate news releases and feature articles for print media, incorporating photographs, film footage, or other visual material to enhance the message.
• Consult program specialists to obtain current information for news releases, radio spots, print articles, meetings, and electronic broadcasts.
• Develop semi-technical written materials explaining National Guard programs, policies, and practices to specific audiences.
• Develop positive working relationships with state and local government personnel, community and special-interest groups, and individuals seeking input on state-level National Guard policy, practices, or programs.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Federal employees and their families have access to a comprehensive benefits package; specific eligibility depends on position type, and applicants are directed to contact the hiring agency for details.

What This Job Offers

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