Communications Specialist, Media Relations (Future Opportunity)

Please note: This role is contingent upon contract award. While not an immediate opening, we are actively interviewing and may extend offers in anticipation of the award, with start dates dependent upon contract finalization.

Communications Specialist, Media Relations
ICF Next, we are fearless in finding new ways to solve problems, relentless in making sure it pays off for our clients and committed to making a positive change in the world.

Here’s your chance to join our award‑winning agency, ICF Next. We’re changemakers, a community of mission‑driven creatives, communicators, strategists, and technologists. We’re searching for our next Media Relations Specialist. This role requires a public affairs or media relations background in the national security sector and will focus on communications‑related activities that support a homeland security client.

Strong candidates will have experience supporting clients with planning and executing successful media relations campaigns and demonstrated capabilities writing communications materials for both internal and external audiences. Experience supporting government communications operations is highly preferred. If you are passionate about building strategic communications, developing messaging for clients, working with the media, and have the requisite prior experience, we’d love to talk to you. This is an exciting role offering excellent opportunities to work in a dynamic, collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities

Support and advise federal press officers in a communications office that receives a substantial number of national, regional, local and trade inquiries every year.

Produce media engagement strategies for campaigns, announcements and events, to include identifying target media outlets and reporters, outlining media pitches and supporting products.

Use a media monitoring platform to track news coverage daily and produce monitoring reports and analyses of print and online stories, as needed, to determine reach and impact.

Provide assistance in the preparation of releases, press kits, facts sheets, response to queries and other materials for use in responding to media inquiries or generating media coverage of initiatives, programs and services.

Support the development of local or targeted media lists.

Provide senior level counsel to client leadership and the account team's project director.

Basic Qualifications

Ability to secure a public trust security clearance.

BS/BA in Marketing, PR, Journalism, or related field.

Minimum of five (5) years of demonstrated experience: understanding trends and best practices in connecting with busy journalists and turning pitches into stories; working with client and project team members; knowledge of public relations and integrated media; and/or generating press attention among national security and cyber security reporters.

Applicants may be asked to submit samples of their work, which could include communications plans, press releases, press coverage or original writing examples.

Preferred Skills and Experience

Excellent communication skills, especially written.

Strong research and organizational abilities, including interpreting large volumes of data, presenting to clients and adhering to deadlines.

PR agency, journalism, corporate or government agency experience preferred.

Self‑starter, with ability to independently manage tasks and handle multiple priorities.

Job Location(s)
This position will provide onsite client support at the client office in Arlington, VA.

Equal Opportunity and Accommodations
ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we’re not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting‑edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future. We are an equal opportunity employer. Together, our employees are empowered to share their expertise and collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, read our EEO policy. We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Reasonable accommodations are available, including but not limited to for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs. To request an accommodation, please email Candidateaccommodation@icf.com and we will be happy to assist. Read more about workplace discrimination rights or our benefit offerings which are included in the Transparency in (Benefits) Coverage Act.

Pay Range
There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.

$74,090.00 - $125,954.00

Virginia Client Office (VA88)

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