JOC Media Analyst

The Red Gate Group, founded in 2006, is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Company based in Chantilly, VA. As an SDVOSB, we deliver high-quality, customer-centric solutions in intelligence analysis, strategic planning, program management, policy development, operational design, and technology integration—from the foxhole to the highest levels of Government. Our motto, "Making a Difference for Country and Client," reflects our deep commitment to national security and service excellence.

About the role

The JOC Media Operations Analyst will serve as a watch-stander for U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) Public Affairs Directorate (CCPA) on a rotational basis in the CENTCOM Joint Operations Center (JOC). The role is physically located in the JOC (24/7/365) and follows shift schedules approved by the CCPA Media Operations Team Chief. The analyst will coordinate with JOC team members, component staff, and headquarters counterparts to formulate initial courses of action during crisis events, research and write media responses, distribute approved releases, and report significant AOR events. The position requires confidence, strong briefing skills, a neat appearance, sound judgment, and the ability to interact with senior leaders.

Responsibilities

• Draft, research, and coordinate accurate, timely responses to media inquiries in alignment with CENTCOM messaging and public affairs guidance.
• Develop press releases, talking points, response-to-query (RTQ) products, Flash Reports, and official statements to support strategic communication objectives.
• Prepare senior leaders for media engagements by providing briefing materials, messaging guidance, and interview preparation support.
• Conduct real-time monitoring and analysis of global media coverage related to CENTCOM operations, identifying emerging issues and potential impacts.
• Provide rapid-response media analysis and recommended messaging to counter misinformation, clarify reporting, and address breaking news.
• Deliver data-driven insights to inform leadership decision-making on media trends and public affairs risks.
• Provide crisis communication support during contingency operations, ensuring coordinated, effective, and timely messaging.
• Support Crisis Action Teams (CAT) during high-tempo operations and participate in 24/7 surge operations as required.
• Conduct media training for senior leaders to enhance effectiveness during press engagements.
• Coordinate and facilitate media embeds and high-visibility press events, ensuring alignment with U.S. strategic objectives.
• Liaise with U.S. Embassies, DoD agencies, partner nations, and media stakeholders to ensure seamless coordination of media activities.
• Travel as required to the National Capital Region (NCR), the CENTCOM Area of Responsibility (AOR), and other locations to provide on-site public affairs and continuity of operations (COOP) support.
• Support senior leadership engagements across multiple regions, ensuring media operations align with broader operational goals.

Requirements

• Active Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) clearance required.
• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in public affairs, public relations, corporate communications, or a related field.
• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated ability to produce clear, concise, and effective media products, including press releases, talking points, and briefing materials.
• Strong understanding of media operations, crisis communication strategies, and media engagement at the national and international levels.
• Proven ability to work under pressure, manage complex and time-sensitive situations, and interact confidently with senior military and civilian leadership.
• Experience building and maintaining professional relationships with the Pentagon Press Corps and regional or international media.
• Exceptional written, verbal, and briefing communication skills.
• Familiarity with AP Style, Microsoft Office Suite, and SharePoint.
• Knowledge of global communication strategies, media relations, and social media platforms.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous public affairs experience.
• Previous experience supporting 24/7 shift operations.
• Master's degree preferred.
• Prior military public affairs experience preferred but not required.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits including flexible time off and 11 paid holidays.
• Immediate 401(k) eligibility with a generous match.
• Full medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 100% company-paid life insurance and disability benefits.
• Professional development assistance for degrees and certifications.