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Media Relations Specialist

Remote

Who We Are

DCG is a specialized, evidence-based communications and research firm focused on supporting federal clients with strategic public relations, marketing, outreach, and research and analysis services. With more than 14 years of experience dedicated to delivering innovative solutions in support of federal government campaigns, our focus is to deliver comprehensive communications services through cutting-edge technologies that enrich the lives of Americans. Our mission-driven work has covered critical topics like human trafficking awareness, mental health stigma reduction, suicide prevention, ending homelessness, veteran health, transportation safety, small business resources, public diplomacy, to name a few. We believe smart communications has the power to change lives and this work is our passion.

Position Overview

DCG is seeking a strategic communications professional to serve as a Media Relations Specialist supporting the Department of Homeland Security's Office of Public Affairs (OPA). As a Media Relations Specialist, you will support the team with press operations and communications strategies to enhance the agency's public image and ensure the accurate dissemination of key information. This role requires a demonstrated ability to develop and execute proactive media campaigns and cultivate internal and external relationships. This role will collaborate closely with internal stakeholders to draft or provide inputs to press releases, talking points, speeches, fact sheets, tool kits, public affairs guidance, and compiling key information for a variety of routine reports and other communications materials, ensuring consistency with the agency's messaging and enabling data-driven decision making. A key aspect of the position is navigating complex public policy issues and crafting clear, transparent, and effective messaging for both traditional and digital media platforms. The role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, problem solving, a process-minded outlook, and a deep understanding of the media landscape and the tools needed to support a government office with press operations. 

Location

This is a hybrid role with a strong preference for candidates located within the Washington, DC Metro area.

Key Competencies

  • Strategic Communication: Demonstrated ability to craft clear, concise, and impactful messages tailored to diverse media audiences, aligned with the agency's mission. Expertise in copy editing and proofreading technical documents is a plus.
  • Media Monitoring and Analysis: Demonstrated ability to track and analyze earned media, identifying trends, and leveraging insights to inform media and press strategies and agency narratives. Familiarity with Meltwater or other media tracking tools is a plus.
  • Earned Media Expertise: Experience in facilitating positive media coverage and amplifying agency priorities though traditional and innovative strategies.
  • Press Strategy: Skilled in facilitating proactive and reactive media strategies to achieve agency communication goals.
  • Congressional Hearing Preparation: Demonstrated experience crafting briefing materials, talking points, and strategies for agency leadership ahead of congressional hearings, high-visibility events, and/or crisis situations.
  • Advising Senior Officials: Demonstrated ability to provide strategic communication advice to senior national security officials prior to media engagements, ensuring alignment with broader government messaging.
  • Analytical and Research Skills: Proficient in analyzing data, public sentiment, and media trends to shape media and overarching communication strategies.
  • Policy and Subject-Matter Expertise: Strong understanding of government policies, legislative processes, and the agency’s mission, with the ability to translate complex issues into public-facing language.
  • Clearance: Candidates must obtain DHS Suitability and a public trust clearance.

Personal Characteristics

  • Resilience and Emotional Intelligence: Ability to handle stress, criticism, and high stakes with emotional maturity and empathy.
  • Integrity and Accountability: Commitment to ethical communication, transparency, and owning mistakes when they occur.
  • Adaptability: Comfortable with shifting priorities, evolving narratives, and rapid changes in media dynamics.
  • Intellectual Curiosity: Proactive in staying informed about emerging trends and seeking opportunities to innovate in communication practices.
  • Interpersonal Skills: Strong relationship-building abilities with internal teams, leadership, the media, and external stakeholders.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree, preferably in communications or closely related field, with a minimum of four years of relevant professional experience supporting corporate communications and/or public relations functions. 
  • Background in journalism, public affairs, strategic communications, or a related field.
  • Experience working in fast-paced environments with strict deadlines and significant public visibility.
  • Familiarity with the legislative, regulatory, or policy-making environment in the federal government.
  • Previous experience in national security, defense, or homeland security communications strongly preferred.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving in high-pressure scenarios.

Culture at DCG 

DCG boasts a flexible and adaptable culture. We value hardworking, self-motivated, and dedicated team members and are committed to fostering ample opportunities for career advancement.  Get a glimpse into our culture here:

  • DCG Life Medium Blog: https://medium.com/dcg-life
  • DCG Life Instagram: @dcglife

Benefits Snapshot

  • A range of comprehensive healthcare plans, encompassing medical, dental, and vision insurance, along with group life coverage. The firm covers 60% of the premium cost for employees and all dependents.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with a fully vested 4% corporate match
  • Annual monetary supplement toward mental and physical wellbeing, and pre-tax Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).
  • 100% Paid Family Bonding for all new parents (including adoption), in addition to STD/LTD
  • $1,000 family expansion benefit to offset costs often uncovered with medical plans: fertility treatment, adoption, and surrogacy.
  • Generous paid time off including 11 paid federal holidays annually.
  • Annual $1,600 professional development stipend
  • $300 annual cash benefit to be used on a variety of wellness perks such as massage, gym memberships, equipment, and more. 

*Note that the above benefits are available only to full-time employees of DCG*

DCG Communications is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.

If you are a person with a disability needing assistance with the application process, please contact hr@dcgcommunications.com.

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