Public Relations Specialist

Agency: Office of the Assistant to the Secretary of War for Public Affairs (OATSW(PA))

Series/Grade: GS-1035-14

Position Title: Public Affairs Specialist

Location: Arlington, VA (The Pentagon)

Clearance: Top Secret / SCI Eligibility Required

About the Role:

The Office of the Assistant to the Secretary of War for Public Affairs (OATSW(PA)) is seeking a senior GS-14 Public Affairs Specialist to serve as a primary communication advisor and media strategist within our Press Operations division. In this dynamic, fast-paced role, you will be on the front lines of the Department of War's public engagement, shaping the narrative on the nation's most critical defense issues.

You will serve as the trusted public affairs advisor to senior Department Principals (e.g., Comptroller, Policy, Acquisition & Sustainment), preparing them for media engagements and providing expert counsel. You will design, execute, and evaluate national-level communication campaigns and direct high-profile events, including news conferences and interviews with top policy-making officials.

Who We Are Looking For (Mandatory Qualifications):

This role requires a seasoned, confident, and media-savvy professional who can navigate the intense demands of the Pentagon press corps and build relationships with senior executives.

• You MUST be an expert in media operations. Your resume must demonstrate extensive experience directly engaging with national and international news media, responding to queries on the record, and arranging interviews for senior leaders.
• You MUST be a trusted advisor. You must have experience providing direct communication counsel to senior executive-level principals on high-stakes, sensitive, and complex issues.
• You MUST be an exceptional executor. Your background must include successfully planning and leading major public affairs campaigns and events, such as national-level press conferences and strategic media rollouts.
• You MUST possess an active Top Secret security clearance with the ability to obtain and maintain SCI access. This is a condition of employment.
• You MUST be a U.S. Citizen.