Job Description

RedSky is seeking a Public Affairs and Media Engagement Specialist to support our Department of Defense (DoD) client’s Communications and Public Affairs Directorate in Tampa, Florida. This role supports high-visibility, mission-critical communication efforts within sensitive federal and defense environments. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in public affairs planning, media engagement, and strategic communications, along with the ability to operate confidently in classified and fast-paced settings. Demonstrates experience supporting senior military and civilian leaders, and a proven ability to engage domestic and international media, interagency partners, and external stakeholders. Experience supporting Combatant Commands, embassy environments, or regional public affairs missions is highly desirable. Strong judgment, discretion, and the ability to translate complex operational information into clear, accurate messaging are essential for success in this role.

In addition to core public affairs responsibilities, this position requires Arabic language proficiency , including the ability to translate, interpret, and contextualize written and verbal content with a deep understanding of cultural, regional, and socio-political nuance. The candidate must be able to accurately convey intent, tone, and messaging for both U.S. and foreign audiences, ensuring cultural sensitivity and alignment with U.S. strategic communication objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Research and draft public affairs guidance, responses to media inquiries, and talking points on key issues affecting the DoD client.
• Develop and coordinate official responses to media queries in conjunction with the Communication and Public Affairs Directorate, additional staff sections, and higher headquarters.
• When authorized and under U.S. government supervision, respond to media inquiries on a non-attributable basis.
• Support media operations surge requirements, including 24/7 shift work during crisis or high-visibility events as directed.
• Monitor traditional and digital media coverage relevant to the organization’s mission, and provide real-time feedback and analysis to leadership.
• Alert leadership to breaking media coverage and assist in correcting inaccurate reporting.
• Plan and conduct conference calls with public affairs counterparts across the client’s enterprise and higher headquarters.
• Provide media training support to key senior leaders and designated spokespersons.
• Develop and prepare briefing materials and read-ahead packages for senior leaders ahead of key media engagements.
• Produce timely rollup summaries and after-action reports on significant media events and engagements.
• Assist senior personnel in the planning and execution of weekly public affairs briefings, including talking point development, note taking, and real-time research.

Qualifications:

• Current Top Secret security clearance with SCI eligibility.
• Bachelor’s degree.
• Five or more years of experience developing public affairs plans and media campaigns for government, military, or similar organizations.
• Strong proficiency with the AP Stylebook.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook).
• Current U.S. passport.
• Demonstrated sound judgment in high-visibility, time-sensitive, and politically complex environments.
• Excellent organizational, time management, writing, editorial, and presentation skills.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with senior military and civilian leaders and work in a multidisciplinary team environment.

Desired:

• Defense Information School (DINFOS) Public Affairs Officer Qualification Course (PAOQC) or equivalent.
• Experience in military public affairs at the service, joint, or headquarters level.
• Experience living or working in regions pertinent to the client’s mission, including the Middle East or Central Asia.
• Joint Professional Military Education (JPME).

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