PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST

Organizational Location: Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Public Affairs, Media Division. Vacancies in El Paso, TX; Laredo, TX; and San Diego, CA. Additional selections may be made for other organizational divisions and/or units within the duty locations listed above.

Salary: $125,776.00 (GS‑14, Step 1) – $163,514.00 (GS‑14, Step 10). Locality and special pay rates apply based on geographic area.

Responsibilities

Act as senior spokesperson, representing agency positions to regional, national, and international media outlets.

Develop and execute comprehensive communication strategies supporting the agency’s mission, including large‑scale media campaigns and crisis communication responses.

Prepare subject‑matter experts, leadership, and executives for media engagements by developing key messages, talking points, and comprehensive preparation strategies.

Provide guidance and consultation to public‑affairs liaisons on media engagement policies and procedures.

Serve as key point of contact for external stakeholders, including media outlets, community organizations, and government agencies.

Qualifications

U.S. Citizenship required; males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with Selective Service.

Residence in the United States for at least three of the last five years.

One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level in: preparing executives for media engagements; acting as senior spokesperson; providing guidance on media engagement; serving as point of contact for media and external stakeholders.

Background investigation and drug‑free workplace compliance required.

For current or former federal employees: 52 weeks at the next lower grade or equivalent grade band in the federal service.

E‑Verify participation.

Additional Requirements

Complete mandatory background investigation, including criminal and drug‑related screening.

Meet residency and statutory eligibility requirements.

Complete required USA Hire Competency‑Based Assessments within 48 hours of receipt.

Submit required documentation as stated in the announcement.

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