Public Affairs Specialist

Public Affairs Specialist

Duties will include, but may not be limited to the following:
Conducts special studies involving communications, organization and operation of Medical Center functions.
Developing reports along with recommendations to the Medical Center Director including implementation and monitoring strategies
Analyzes internal communication needs and develops publications or other information materials for staff, patients, volunteers and others who contribute to the Medical Center effectiveness and responsiveness.
Analyzes Medical Center information needs, goals and resources and tailors specific communication strategies using all media to reach target audiences both internal and external.
Advises and makes recommendations to the Medical Center director regarding the handling of media and community issue or concerns that have possible implications on the Medical Center.
Establishes and maintains professional working relationships with representatives of the news media, responding in a timely fashion to information requests from the media in writing and orally to ensure the fair representation of the Medical Center.
Localizes material prepared for general release to the media; works with the VHACO and VACO Public Affairs Program Offices in the development of
unified action on news stories that may have significant impact; markets information items to appropriate local and regional print and electronic media and utilizes general and specialized news media to disseminate consumer information to various publics.
Sets up systematic programs for collecting information of news interest concerning Medical Center activities and personnel.
Regularly prepares news releases and photos for submission to regional and local publications and electronic media.
Prepares briefing packaged and slide presentations for VA guests from regional and central offices as well as congressional staff, veterans' organizations and all other community representatives and groups.
Seeks and develops opportunities to increase Medical Center use by veterans, community groups and other related organizations.
Evaluates the effectiveness and efficiency of the public information programs for internal communications, media relations and community relations with the ultimate goal of achieving greater understanding of their facility's mission and programs.
Plans, initiates and implements comprehensive public affairs activities to enhance the understanding of the Medical Center's programs among the general public and specialized groups and organizations.
Undertakes other assignments, such as speech writing or coordination of special events/projects at the direction of the Medical Center director.
Coordinates photo coverage of programs and activities with medical media production service.
Provides guidance in the area of photography for public information purposes.
Coordinates the production and dissemination of information, material, and, where necessary, works with contractors who design, write or produce materials for the Medical Center.
Develops and utilizes a variety of methods and techniques in achieving communication goals, such as news releases, radio and television scripts,
personal appearances, brochures, pamphlets, etc.
Develops and maintains a beakers' bureau of facility resources and distributes the list to media and other interested organizations as appropriate.
Prepares and updates brochures on the Medical Center, its personnel and activities.
Performs other related duties as assigned.
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 7:30am - 4:00pm
Telework: VA supports the use of telework as a way to help attract and retain talented individuals in public service, increase worker productivity, and better prepare the agency to operate during emergencies. This position may be authorized for Ad-hoc telework only. Telework eligibility will be discussed during the interview process.
Virtual: This is not a virtual position.
Position Description/PD#: Public Affairs Specialist/ PD303790
Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized
Critical Skills Incentive (CSI): Not Approved
Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized
The VA Midwest Health Care Network advocates for a Whole Health System of care in each of the Medical Centers. This is an approach to healthcare that empowers and equips people to take charge of their health and well-being and live their lives to the fullest. As an employee operating in a Whole Health System of care, you will operate in a model with three core elements, seeking to create a personalized health plan for each Veteran. This is done in the context of healing relationships and healing environments and a connection back to the Veteran's community. This aligns with the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Mission Statement to Honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional health care that improves their health and well-being.