Social Media Strategist (Top Secret cleared)

Social Media Strategist

ICF Next is seeking a Social Media Strategist to support a high-visibility federal client within the national security space, focused on large-scale recruitment marketing and employer branding initiatives. This is a fully onsite role within a secure government environment requiring close, day-to-day collaboration with client stakeholders. The role supports the execution of data-driven social media strategies that attract high-quality candidates and strengthen the client's employer brand across digital platforms.
The strategist will operate in a highly collaborative environment, working closely with government stakeholders and integrated marketing teams to plan, execute, and optimize social media initiatives. The work aligns to a broader recruitment marketing program that includes campaign development, analytics, content strategy, and KPI-driven optimization, requiring both strategic thinking and hands-on execution.
All work is performed on site in a secure federal environment in Washington, D.C. Limited telework may be authorized only as permitted by the client and contract requirements.
What You Will Do
Develop and execute social media strategies that support national recruitment, hiring campaigns, and employer branding efforts
Plan and manage editorial calendars and content pipelines across platforms (LinkedIn, X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube)
Create, schedule, and publish content in alignment with brand guidelines, accessibility standards (Section 508), and federal compliance requirements
Collaborate onsite with government stakeholders and cross-functional teams (creative, analytics, paid media, program leadership) to ensure message alignment and approval workflows
Monitor social media channels for engagement, sentiment, and emerging risks, and recommend proactive responses
Conduct social listening and trend analysis to inform messaging, campaigns, and audience targeting strategies
Analyze performance metrics (reach, engagement, conversions, sentiment) and contribute to KPI reporting and optimization efforts
Support real-time and event-based content execution, including rapid-turnaround deliverables
Develop social media toolkits, including captions, alt text, creative direction, and platform-specific guidance
Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure consistency across all public-facing communications and channels
Basic Qualifications
Active Top Secret (TS) clearance required
Ability to work onsite full-time in Washington, DC
U.S. citizenship required
Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, public relations, or related field
3+ years of professional experience managing organizational or brand social media accounts
Preferred Qualifications
Experience supporting federal government or public-sector communications programs
Familiarity with recruitment marketing, employer branding, or talent acquisition campaigns
Experience using social media management and analytics tools (e.g., Sprout Social, Hootsuite, Meltwater, Brandwatch)
Experience supporting data-driven optimization and KPI reporting environments
Familiarity with multi-channel campaign integration (paid, owned, earned media)
Professional Skills
Strong organizational and coordination skills across multiple stakeholders and workstreams
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality
Ability to synthesize information and contribute to strategic decision-making
Collaborative mindset with the ability to work across interdisciplinary teams