Public Relations Specialist, Media Intelligence

AeroVironment•Arlington, VA

1d•$93,000 - $141,750•Onsite

About The Position

AV is seeking a Public Relations Specialist to support media relations, news monitoring, rapid-response communications and proactive storytelling across the enterprise. This role will help the communications team identify emerging news opportunities, develop media outreach, support messaging and build communications plans around company programs, announcements, executive travel and external events. The ideal candidate is highly tuned into the national security and technology news environment, understands how the media cycle works and can quickly identify where AV has a relevant voice or story.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, political science, international relations or a related field.
3–5 years of experience in media relations, communications, journalism, public affairs, government affairs or a related field.
Strong understanding of the news cycle and demonstrated interest in national security, defense or technology.
Excellent research, writing and organizational skills.
Ability to work quickly and accurately under deadline.
Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple simultaneous projects.
Ability to identify newsworthy angles and translate complex information into clear communications products.

Nice To Haves

Masters degree in communications, public relations, political science, international affairs, or related field
Experience in defense, aerospace, government, Capitol Hill, military public affairs or national security communications.
Familiarity with defense and national security media.
Experience using media monitoring and analytics platforms.
Experience supporting executives, government officials or senior leaders.
Knowledge of congressional, Pentagon and defense-industry communications environments.

Responsibilities

Monitor national security, defense, aerospace, technology, policy and business news for issues relevant to AV.
Identify real-time opportunities for proactive media engagement based on breaking news and emerging trends.
Develop media pitches, reporter lists, background materials and supporting research.
Assist with development of messaging, talking points, Q&As, briefing cards and media preparation materials.
Track AV media coverage and identify trends, opportunities and potential reputational issues.
Support press release development and distribution.
Research reporters, outlets, podcasts, broadcast programs and other media opportunities.
Build PR plans around executive travel, customer events, demonstrations, conferences and trade shows.
Coordinate with government relations and other internal teams to identify relevant Hill, policy and national security communications opportunities.
Maintain media lists, engagement records and communications calendars.
Support media logistics for interviews, briefings, events and facility visits.
Assist senior communications leaders with rapid-response and crisis communications.
Develop routine media intelligence reports and summaries for communications and company leadership.