Public Affairs Specialist

About this role

Specialized Experience: To qualify at the SV-J (GS-14) band level: Applicants must possess one full year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the SV-I (GS-13) in the Federal service or private sector. Specialized experience MUST include all of the following: Leading communications and outreach efforts for external stakeholders, including partner agencies, industry groups, community organizations, media outlets, and customers; advising leadership and program offices on effective messaging and communication approaches; AND Researching, drafting, reviewing, editing, and coordinating press releases, public statements, talking points, speeches, media advisories, and other public-facing communications materials; AND Developing and executing strategic communications plans and advising senior leadership on communications strategies, messaging, and sensitive or high-visibility matters.

Credit for experience is given based on a 40-hour workweek. Part-time experience is credited on a part-time ratio, i.e., working 20 hours per week for two months equals one month of experience. No additional credit is given for overtime. National Service Experience (i.e., volunteer experience): Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social).

Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) must authorize employment offers made to current or former political appointees. If you are currently, or have been within the last 5 years, a political Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES or Presidential Appointee employee in the Executive Branch, you must disclose this information to the Human Resources Office.

You must meet the qualification requirements for this position no later than the closing date of the vacancy announcement.