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Public Affairs Specialist

DC Government Careers, Washington, District of Columbia, us, 20022

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Job Summary

This position is located in the Department of Employment Services (DOES), Bureau of Economics and Stability, Office of Unemployment Compensation (OUC). This position is located in the Department of Employment Services (DOES), Bureau of Economic Stability and Benefits, Office of Unemployment Compensation (OUC). This position is established to serve as one of the primary communications resources for the Office of Unemployment Compensation (OUC). The Public Affairs Specialist will advance the Program's communication objective by developing and coordinating clear, accurate, and timely information for internal and external audiences. Core duties include drafting and editing internal and external newsletters, preparing talking points and briefing materials for senior leadership, and supporting stakeholder communications across multiple channels. The specialist will contribute to communication and media plans that reinforce agency and program priorities and ensure message alignment with federal standards. This position also requires direct engagement with the public during agency-hosted events, serving as a professional representative of the organization. Strong writing and editing skills, sound judgement, and the ability to translate complex policy or program information into accessible messaging are essential. The position directly impacts public trust, operational continuity, and compliance with U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) requirements by ensuring information is communicated consistently through digital platforms, customer-facing materials, internal leadership messaging, and time-sensitive communications.

Duties and Responsibilities

Assists in the development of communication plans including such factors as specific topics or aspects to emphasize, the most effective media to utilize in communicating with target audiences, etc. provides input to management on the possible public and media reactions to agency actions, as well as the information needs of the general public and various specialized groups. Helps develop and maintain effective working relationships with print and broadcast media representatives in disseminating information or answering inquiries about the agency's operations or activities. Plans and designs print and online material for public events, social media, workshops, and special projects, as assigned, Communications staff and Agency Director.

Coordinates the outreach and community relations program, which involved arranging meetings with District Council Members, ANC Commissioners, members of the clergy, school and university officials, non-profit organizations, advocacy groups, local and national law enforcement agencies, and/or others, as appropriate.

Qualifications and Education

Specialized Experience:

Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled. To be creditable, specialized experience must have been equivalent to at least the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression.

Licensures, Certifications, and other Requirements

None

Work Conditions/Environment

The work is performed in a normal office setting.

Other Significant Facts

Tour of Duty:

Monday-Friday 8:30 am- 5:00 pm or Varies

Operating Status:

In-Person reporting, flexible and limited telework options available upon position eligibility and operational needs.

Promotion Potential:

No known promotion potential

Duration of Appointment:

Career Service Term NTE 13-Months

Pay Plan, Series and Grade:

CS-1035-12

Salary:

$80,784- $103,333; Based on qualifications and funding

Collective Bargaining Unit (Union):

This position is not covered by a Collective Bargaining Unit.

Position Designation:

This position has been designated as Security sensitive therefore the incumbent of this position will be subject to enhanced suitability screening pursuant to Chapter 4 of DC Personnel Regulations, Suitability and as such, incumbents of this position shall be subject to criminal background checks, background investigations, and mandatory drug and alcohol testing, as applicable.

Residency Requirement:

Applicants claiming Residency Preference will be required to maintain residency in the District of Columbia for a minimum of seven (7) years. Failure to do so may result in forfeiture of employment.

EEO Statement:

The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, physical handicap, or political affiliation.