Sr. Public Affairs / Communication Specialist

UIC Alaska•Patuxent River, MD

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Bowhead seeks a Sr. Public Affairs / Communication Specialist to support the NAVAIR contract located in Patuxent River, MD. The Sr. Public Affairs / Communication Specialist will provide strategic internal and external communications to strengthen organizational visibility, enhance stakeholder engagement, and maintain a consistent public image. This role requires a highly experienced communications professional with demonstrated expertise in communication strategy, content development, and program coordination.

Requirements

Minimum of ten (10+) years of relevant experience in public affairs, communications, media relations, or a related field.
MA/MS degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, public affairs, or a related discipline. (Bachelor’s Degree plus 2 years additional work experience may be substituted for a Master’s Degree).
Demonstrated ability to manage complex communication programs and produce high‑quality written content.
Strong understanding of media relations, internal communications, stakeholder engagement, and digital communication tools.
Experience with SharePoint Online and multimedia content development.
Ability to assess public sentiment and communication trends across digital platforms.
Must be able to maintain a clearance at the Secret level.
US Citizenship is a requirement for Secret clearance at this location.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute internal and external communication strategies that support organizational goals.
Maintain and reinforce the organization’s corporate image and identity through consistent messaging and branding.
Assess advertising, promotion, and public engagement activities to ensure alignment with communication objectives.
Create, curate, and publish a monthly Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) newsletter on SharePoint Online, including: A message from senior leadership “Get to Know Us” spotlight features highlighting team or program personnel A selection of 5–7 relevant news articles sourced internally and externally Interactive engagement elements with a non‑monetary prize system
Draft press releases, speeches, talking points, and executive communication materials.
Prepare content for distribution to media channels and respond to media inquiries.
Manage digital and social media efforts to monitor engagement and assess public sentiment.
Coordinate the organization’s internal awards program, including communication cycles, recognition activities, and event support.
Support steering groups, leadership boards, or similar organizational committees, including scheduling, correspondence, documentation, and communication products.
Arrange interviews, briefings, and public appearances for senior leadership.
Develop speeches or executive messaging to support major organizational initiatives and events.