Communications and Outreach Specialist

WWC Federal, an operating firm of Command Holdings, is seeking a Communications and Outreach Specialist to support USAID’s Bureau for Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance (DRG).  The Communications and Outreach Specialist will raise awareness of and increase the audience for USAID's DRG technical leadership activities and programs. They will create written and multimedia content for the DRG Bureau to use for outreach on DRG programs, including blogs, websites, and other online social media fora. Additionally, the incumbent will work closely with other regional and technical bureaus, and senior leadership on outreach, communications, and event planning for major Agency initiatives related to democracy, human rights, and governance programs implemented by USAID.  They will also support the review and clearance of DRG and DRG-related communications material, not limited to briefers, talking points, and testimony.

Position Objectives:

• Increase external and internal outreach on DRG assistance (partner, Hill, general public, development community, key stakeholders, and the DRG global cadre).

• Increase and enhance internal communication between the DRG Bureau, the 90 field missions, and the DRG cadre.

• Increase presence on USAID storytelling platforms (including social media) to effectively communicate the impact and success of USAID's democracy, human rights, and governance work around the globe.

• Develop and deliver communication-related skills training with the DRG Bureau, and educate staff on communications products and tools.

• Provide oversight on systems and procedures of the DRG Bureau to identify and provide platforms and processes that have the greatest potential for utilization by Mission and DRG global cadre staff.

Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:

Strategic Communications

• Develop and lead implementation of the communications and outreach strategy, outlining key objectives, target audiences, messaging, core communications activities, and timeline for implementation.

• Work closely with other USAID regional and technical bureaus, senior Bureau leadership and the Legislative and Public Affairs Bureau to develop and promote key DRG messages; and collaborate on DRG-related communications and outreach campaigns. Represent DRG communications efforts via the standing Agency and Bureau communications working groups.
• Develop a diverse and active network of DRG field contacts and implementing partners for collaboration on stories and initiatives.
• Engage regularly with the DRG global cadre to solicit sector-related field stories; provide DRG- related communications resources as needed; and travel at Mission's request to produce story content, produce video storytelling, and provide DRG storytelling support as needed.

Content Creation and Management

• Create and develop articles, stories, blogs, event summaries and/or other written or multi-media materials that promote the impact of DRG programming for the various DRG platforms. Responsible for the creative design, development and oversight of DRG's website(s), including maintaining functionality and accessibility for the external public; managing all web-related activity with DRG teams.
• Design and conduct the virtual and in-person DRG storytelling course for DRG staff and local partners overseas, and in Washington, D.C.
• Draft DRG related Agency Notices and Executive Messages to commemorate key DRG- themed days and announcements for internal distribution.
• Edit the DRG Bureau’s weekly and annual reports; and the DRG newsletter.
• Provide copy-editing for external publications and Bureau documents.
• Serve as the producer for new DRG video projects, and provide video editing support. Secure photos, videos and other multimedia material for both internal and external use.
• Provides technical and strategic guidance in online communication strategies; explores and develops new ways to communicate activities, disseminate information and expand outreach to specific audiences.

Media and Events

• Manage DRG-related media and press inquiries, including drafting press releases.
• Provide writing and editing support for speeches and talking points for DRG leadership and Senior Staff for high-profile events.
• Provide outreach and multi-visual support on DRG Bureau events.
• Photograph and/or produce videos of USAID events for the USAID and DRG use and on TDYs.

Leadership

• Incorporate best practices, latest trends, and innovation into DRG's communications strategies. Provides guidance to less experienced team members on USAID/DRG communications.
• Provide the review and clearance of public relations and communications relevant documents, advising on red-lines, gaps, and recommendations to strengthen briefers, talking points, and external documents with DRG public affairs relevance.

Work Environment:

• Moderate noise (i.e. business office with computers, phone and printers) and /or occasional Loud noise (airfield, large equipment).
• Ability to sit at a computer terminal for an extended period of time.

Physical Demands:

• While performing the responsibilities of the job, the employee is required to sit, stand, talk, and hear.
• Employee is often required to sit and use their hands and fingers to operate a computer.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Travel:

• 0-10% / Minimal travel.
  

WWC Federal, an operating firm of Command Holdings, a Pequot company, is a tribally-owned firm providing management consulting services to U.S. government agencies.

Pursuant to PL 93-638, as amended, preference will be given to qualified Native Americans and spouses in all phases of employment.

At WWC Federal, our employees are the embodiment of our success as a firm. Our team is comprised of a tenacious group of diverse professionals located across the globe. It includes military veterans and spouses of active duty troops, former federal employees, policy experts, academics, attorneys, and technical and business experts, all of whom share a strong work ethic and the skills to succeed in both collaborative and independent environments. WWC Federal is invested in the long-term success of both our clients and colleagues for the right reasons. Our dedication to putting good government into practice is underpinned by a merit-based culture that measures success by productivity and credibility.

WWC Federal will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants who are unable to utilize our online application system due to a disability. Please send your request to WWC Federal HR at [email protected].

WWC Federal is an Equal Opportunity Employer – we do not discriminate based on age, race, national or ethnic origin, gender, veterans status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other legally protected class. Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws: Equal Employment Opportunity and Employee Polygraph Protection Act.

WWC Federal's Affirmative Action Program is available to any employee or applicant for employment for inspection upon request, to the extent required by federal regulations. The Affirmative Action Program can be accessed during normal business hours by making an appointment with WWC Federal HR at [email protected].

Requirements

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree.
• Current, active Secret security clearance.
• At least 10 years of experience in communications, media/journalism, and international development with USAID and/or USAID implementing partners.
• Knowledge of USAID policies, activities, systems and procedures, especially those related to communications and outreach.
• Outstanding written and oral communications skills with a strong attention to detail; able to produce clean, high quality, professional copy for varied audiences.
• Proven ability to meet deadlines and work in rapidly changing, high-pressure situations, and juggle competing priorities and make quick, sound decisions.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, highly collaborative, and builds strong relationships at all levels. Shows discretion and diplomacy with politically sensitive issues and information.
• Ability to effectively work and engage internal and external partners, USAID clients, host government officials, and NGO counterparts.
• Outstanding communication skills, influencing abilities, and client focus.
• Professional proficiency in English is required.
• Demonstrated proficiency in using all Microsoft Office applications.
• Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. WWC Federal will not sponsor applicants for work visas for this position.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's Degree.

Benefits

WWC Federal offers a competitive benefits plan including:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Life and Disability Insurance
• 401(k)
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program
• Pet Insurance

Eligibility requirements apply.