Communications Specialist

Responsibilities

• Serves as a trusted advisor supporting leadership and stakeholder engagement activities for a high-visibility, busy major weapons systems acquisition program.
• Led the development and execution of strategic communications supporting acquisition programs, modernization initiatives, congressional engagement, and organizational priorities.
• Identifies messaging gaps and applies solutions in a dynamic, collaborative environment.
• Resourceful when facing knowledge gaps and able to quickly ingest new information and build trust and strong working relationships.
• Provides meaningful insight on effective internal and external stakeholder engagement, recommending specific messaging actions that advance program priorities with Congressional, industry, professional association, and media stakeholders.
• Contributes to strengthening relationships by translating technical information into compelling messaging.
• Familiar with the inner workings of Congress and preferably has Capitol Hill experience; knowledge of the HAC/HASC/SAC/SASC, and the annual appropriations process.
• Uses this expertise to identify areas needing additional messaging supported by analysis to align with budget cycles.
• Maintains awareness of media coverage to identify prevailing opinions, misconceptions, sentiment, and strategic opportunities.
• Able to optimize communications by creating structured strategic messaging and engagement plans that foster alignment and informed decision-making.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a technical or communications-related field.
• Demonstrated experience in Congressional budgeting and procurement processes, development, and oversight.
• 7+ years' demonstrated experience in strategic communications, targeted messaging development, funding proposal development, and key stakeholder engagement.
• Demonstrated understanding of DoD fiscal and resource priorities, processes, and strategies as they relate to acquisition of complex programs and initiatives.
• DoD Secret clearance, and the ability to maintain it throughout employment.