Public Affairs Specialist

US Department of State
  • Washington, DC
  • $143,913–$187,093 Per Year
6 days ago

Job Description

Summary

This TEMPORARY and INTERMITTENT position is located in the Media Monitoring Unit, Office of Analytics (GPA/ST/AN), Deputy Assistant Secretary (DAS) of Strategy, Bureau of Global Public Affairs (GPA), Department of State (DoS). GPA carries out the Secretary's mandate to articulate the foreign policy of the United States and to communicate with and engage United States (U.S.) and global audiences.

Learn more about this agency

Summary

This TEMPORARY and INTERMITTENT position is located in the Media Monitoring Unit, Office of Analytics (GPA/ST/AN), Deputy Assistant Secretary (DAS) of Strategy, Bureau of Global Public Affairs (GPA), Department of State (DoS). GPA carries out the Secretary's mandate to articulate the foreign policy of the United States and to communicate with and engage United States (U.S.) and global audiences.

Learn more about this agency

Overview

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Accepting applications

Location

1 vacancy in the following location:

Washington, DC

No matching locations found.

Work site options

Telework eligible Yes-Situational telework agreements may be permitted with supervisory approval. Remote job No Relocation expenses reimbursed No Salary $143,913 - $187,093 per year Pay scale & grade

GS 14

Promotion potential 14

Learn more about pay scale and grade

Pay scale and grade determines the salary of the job.

Work schedule Intermittent - Intermittent Work Schedule limited to a maximum of 1,040 hours during the appointment period. Duty hours anticipated to occur during early morning hours (e.g., 4:00am - 8:00am ET), specific schedule is subject to change based on operational needs. Travel Required Not required

Appointment type Temporary - Term Appointment not-to-exceed 1 year. May be extended without further announcement.

Occupations and job series

  • 1035 Public Affairs

Supervisory status No Federal service type This job is in the Competitive Service

Drug test Yes Security clearance Secret Position sensitivity and risk Noncritical-Sensitive (NCS)/Moderate Risk

Jobs require a background check and some require a security clearance. The type depends on the job.

Background check type

  • Credentialing
  • Suitability/Fitness
  • National security

Announcement number R/GPA-MPE-2026-0001 Control number 883784900

This job is open to

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Career transition (CTAP, ICTAP, RPL)

Federal employees whose job, agency or department was eliminated and are eligible for priority over other applicants.

Duties

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  • Contributes to the timely and effective production of media analyses, coordinates with Office staff to select special-report content on media coverage and helps develop key remarks for senior USG officials.
  • Conducts frequent and reliable front-line observations of media content that could be used to bolster, adjust, or change the Department or USG approach to communicating its policy priorities to various audience segments.
  • Develops communication strategies and provides counsel to GPA on methods to deliver DoS messages on controversial issues of national and international significance with strategic partners and stakeholders.
  • Collaborates with staff, regional Bureaus in DoS, and missions overseas to create, develop, and strengthen a comprehensive communications strategy, develop performance metrics, and implement changes/improvements to ensure the success of the strategy.
  • Contributes to the development and implementation of an overarching and comprehensive audience research and analysis strategy for GPA to measure and improve the effectiveness of its programs and services in support of U.S. foreign policy goals.

Requirements

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Conditions of employment

  • U.S. Citizenship is required.
  • Incumbent will be subject to random drug testing.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
  • Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit: www.dhs.gov/E-Verify/

Qualifications

Applicants must meet all the required qualification requirements described below by the closing date of this announcement.

NOTE: Applicants must meet time-in-grade and time after competitive appointment requirements, by the closing date of this announcement.

Time-In-Grade Requirements: Federal applicants must have served 52 weeks at the next lower grade to satisfy time-in-grade restrictions, per 5CFR 300, Subpart F.

Applicants must have 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level in the Federal service which provided the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the duties of the position.

Qualifying specialized experience must demonstrate the following:

  • Experience independently producing media monitoring and analysis products that translate media trends into recommendations that support communications and foreign policy priorities.
  • Experience coordinating with office staff to select media content and develop remarks for senior officials.
  • Experience collaborating with internal and external partners to develop media analysis methodologies and communications strategies that enhance programs in support of U.S. foreign policy goals.

There is no substitute of education for specialized experience for the GS-14 position.

Education

Education requirements do not apply to this vacancy announcement.

Additional information

  • To request a reasonable accommodation for additional time on the timed sections of the assessment, please submit your request using the "Request a Reasonable Accommodation" button within the Assessment Application.

For all other reasonable accommodations at the U.S. Department of State, please contact the Office of Accessibility and Accommodations (OAA) at OAA@state.gov.

OAA is responsible for reviewing and adjudicating reasonable accommodation (RA) requests for the Assessment Battery being used for this announcement.  The following applies to all RA requests:

  • RA requests cover additional time on timed sections only.

  • Applicants submitting a RA request MUST attach supporting medical documentation signed by a licensed, treating medical provider. The documentation should describe the nature, severity, and expected duration of the condition, identify the relevant medical condition or diagnosis, and explain the basis for the requested extension.  RA requests that do not contain supporting medical documentation attachments at the time of initial request may be subject to further review.

  • Note: the following documents do not, on their own, qualify for automatic approval of the RA request: Schedule A letters, VA benefits letters, or SSA letters.

  • Applicants MUST submit their application before the vacancy closes, even if pending an accommodation decision.

  • Applicants are encouraged to carefully follow instructions related to medical documentation provided in the vacancy announcement prior to beginning the RA process.

  • Applicants will have 48 hours after their RA request is adjudicated to complete the assessment battery.  Scores generated after the allotted timeframe will not be admissible and the applicant will not be considered further for the vacancy.

  • If a different type of RA is needed, please contact OAA directly at OAA@state.gov.

  • If eligible, situational telework agreements may be permitted with supervisory approval.

  • Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement. If eligible, applicants to this announcement may be referred to other similar positions in other Bureaus/Offices in the Department for up to 240 days and may require a higher or lower security clearance. Telework eligibility and security clearance requirements may vary for such similar positions.

  • Agency & Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP & ICTAP): View OPM's  CTAP & ICTAP eligibility website for more information. You must be rated in the Well-Qualified category and submit supporting documents under the required documents section of this announcement to receive selection priority consideration. To be considered Well-Qualified applicants must: score an 85 or above, meet Minimum Qualifications, and demonstrate proficiency in some, but not all major aspects of the position.

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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.

Benefits

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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

In accordance with 5 CFR § 890.102 (3), employees serving in a temporary appointment not to exceed one (1) year with an intermittent work schedule (no regular work schedule), limited to a maximum of 1040 hours in an appointment period are not eligible for benefits.

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How you will be evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

The evaluation process consists of the ApplyGov Competency Based Assessments and a crediting plan for which applicants will be assigned a score between 70 and 100. A resume review will be conducted for minimum qualification requirements, as described in the "Qualifications" section of this announcement, of the top qualified candidates based on combined total score.  Resumes longer than two pages will be deemed ineligible and will not be considered further.  Responses to questions that are not fully supported by your resume may result in a rating adjustment.

You will be assessed on the following job-related competencies (knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics):

Non-Supervisory: Oral Communication, Writing, Interpersonal Skills, Problem Solving, Teamwork, Technology Orientation, Customer Service, Attention to Detail and Self-Management.

Set aside at least 2 hours to take the external assessments; however, most applicants complete the assessments in less time. There are timed sections that must be completed within the allotted timeframe.

Your score from the external assessment (Non-supervisory) will remain on file for 180 days, allowing you to apply for multiple DOS-announced positions without needing to retake the assessments.

Top applicants may be referred to the hiring manager for further consideration. The assessment is used to measure the degree in which your background matches the competencies and KSAs required for this position. Your qualifications will be evaluated on the following competencies:

  • Ability to understand trends in public and media attitudes.
  • Knowledge of media / public relations methods and techniques.
  • Skill in oral and written communication
  • Ability to liaison with others.

Applicants found to be among the top qualified candidates will be referred to the hiring official for further consideration and possible interview.

In describing your experience, please be clear and specific. We do not make assumptions regarding your experience. Overstating your qualifications and/or experience in your application may result in your removal from consideration.

You may preview questions for this vacancy.

Benefits

Help

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

In accordance with 5 CFR § 890.102 (3), employees serving in a temporary appointment not to exceed one (1) year with an intermittent work schedule (no regular work schedule), limited to a maximum of 1040 hours in an appointment period are not eligible for benefits.

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

Required documents

Required Documents

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All required documents listed below, that are applicable to you, must be submitted to our automated system by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) on the closing date of this announcement.

  1. Resume limited to two pages showing relevant work/volunteer experience, education and training. Include the start and end dates (from month/year to month/year) and the number of hours per week worked/volunteered. Your resume serves as the basis for qualification determinations and must support your answers to the completed online assessment questions. Resumes longer than two pages will be deemed ineligible and will not be considered further.

  2. Performance appraisal. Submit your most recent (i.e., usually within the last 18 months) final (not a mid-year review) official (i.e., signed by the rating official and in original format) annual performance appraisal.

  3. ICTAP/CTAP eligibility documentation (e.g., reduction-in-force (RIF) separation notice, RIF separation SF-50 personnel action (ICTAP only, if available), most recent SF-50 (ICTAP or CTAP), certification of expected separation, etc.).

How to Apply

Help

Prepare your application in USAJOBS

To start your application, click Apply and we'll walk you through the process to attach a resume and any required documents.

During the application process you can review, edit, delete, and update your information. We'll automatically save your progress as you go, so you won't lose any changes. You have until 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) on the closing date of this announcement to complete the application process.

STEP 1: Select the "Apply" button and follow the instructions to register or sign into USAJOBS.

STEP 2: Submit your resume. Please see the Required Documents section for specific information that should be outlined in your resume.

STEP 3: Complete the online assessment questions.

STEP 4: Submit all required documentation applicable to you, as listed in the Required Documents section.

To learn how to view the status of your submitted supporting documentation and application, visit the Application Instructions section of our agency's Civil Service selection process site.

Technical assistance with your on-line application is available through the Help Desk at fedhirehelp@applygovernment.com or by calling (866) 656-6830 between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. ET

Alternate Application Procedures

If applying online poses an extreme hardship, you may request alternate application procedures to submit your application package. Contact the Human Resources office listed on the announcement between the business hours of 8:15 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. ET at least 2 working days prior to the closing date of this announcement. The application package for alternate application procedures must be submitted and received in the Human Resources office no later than 11:59 p.m. ET on the closing date of this announcement. Paper applications and information sent by mail will not be accepted.

Agency contact information

Aaron Ellis

Phone 771-204-5105 Fax 000-000-0000 Email EllisAJ1@state.gov Address U.S. Department of State

Not accepting applications by Mail

Charleston, South Carolina 29405

United States

Next steps

After all application packages are received, we will review applications and evaluate applicants' qualifications. Then, in approximately two weeks after this announcement closes, we will refer candidates, as described in the "How You Will Be Evaluated" section, to the hiring manager for selection consideration. Your application status will be updated up to four times during the following hiring phases:

  • After applications are received.
  • After applications are assessed to determine qualifications.
  • After candidates are referred to the hiring manager.
  • After a selection is made.

For the selected candidates who receive a tentative job offer, we will conduct a suitability review and/or security background investigation that generally takes an average of at least two to six months.

Fair and transparent

The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.

Criminal history inquiries Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy

Financial suitability New employee probationary period

Privacy Act Reasonable accommodation policy

Selective Service Signature and false statements

Social security number request

Required Documents

Help

All required documents listed below, that are applicable to you, must be submitted to our automated system by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) on the closing date of this announcement.

  1. Resume limited to two pages showing relevant work/volunteer experience, education and training. Include the start and end dates (from month/year to month/year) and the number of hours per week worked/volunteered. Your resume serves as the basis for qualification determinations and must support your answers to the completed online assessment questions. Resumes longer than two pages will be deemed ineligible and will not be considered further.

  2. Performance appraisal. Submit your most recent (i.e., usually within the last 18 months) final (not a mid-year review) official (i.e., signed by the rating official and in original format) annual performance appraisal.

  3. ICTAP/CTAP eligibility documentation (e.g., reduction-in-force (RIF) separation notice, RIF separation SF-50 personnel action (ICTAP only, if available), most recent SF-50 (ICTAP or CTAP), certification of expected separation, etc.).

How to Apply

Help

Prepare your application in USAJOBS

To start your application, click Apply and we'll walk you through the process to attach a resume and any required documents.

During the application process you can review, edit, delete, and update your information. We'll automatically save your progress as you go, so you won't lose any changes. You have until 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time (ET) on the closing date of this announcement to complete the application process.

STEP 1: Select the "Apply" button and follow the instructions to register or sign into USAJOBS.

STEP 2: Submit your resume. Please see the Required Documents section for specific information that should be outlined in your resume.

STEP 3: Complete the online assessment questions.

STEP 4: Submit all required documentation applicable to you, as listed in the Required Documents section.

To learn how to view the status of your submitted supporting documentation and application, visit the Application Instructions section of our agency's Civil Service selection process site.

Technical assistance with your on-line application is available through the Help Desk at fedhirehelp@applygovernment.com or by calling (866) 656-6830 between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. ET

Alternate Application Procedures

If applying online poses an extreme hardship, you may request alternate application procedures to submit your application package. Contact the Human Resources office listed on the announcement between the business hours of 8:15 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. ET at least 2 working days prior to the closing date of this announcement. The application package for alternate application procedures must be submitted and received in the Human Resources office no later than 11:59 p.m. ET on the closing date of this announcement. Paper applications and information sent by mail will not be accepted.

Expand Hide how to apply

Agency contact information

Aaron Ellis

Phone 771-204-5105 Fax 000-000-0000 Email EllisAJ1@state.gov Address U.S. Department of State

Not accepting applications by Mail

Charleston, South Carolina 29405

United States

Next steps

After all application packages are received, we will review applications and evaluate applicants' qualifications. Then, in approximately two weeks after this announcement closes, we will refer candidates, as described in the "How You Will Be Evaluated" section, to the hiring manager for selection consideration. Your application status will be updated up to four times during the following hiring phases:

  • After applications are received.
  • After applications are assessed to determine qualifications.
  • After candidates are referred to the hiring manager.
  • After a selection is made.

For the selected candidates who receive a tentative job offer, we will conduct a suitability review and/or security background investigation that generally takes an average of at least two to six months.

Expand Hide next steps

Fair and transparent

The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.

Criminal history inquiries Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy

Financial suitability New employee probationary period

Privacy Act Reasonable accommodation policy

Selective Service Signature and false statements

Social security number request

Numbers & Facts

LocationWashington, DC
Salary$143,913–$187,093 Per Year

Skills

  • Analysis Skillsunmatched
  • Background Investigationunmatched
  • Code of Federal Regulationsunmatched
  • Communication Skillsunmatched
  • Customer Support/Serviceunmatched
  • Detail Orientedunmatched
  • Develop Methodologiesunmatched
  • Documentationunmatched
  • Federal Assistanceunmatched
  • Federal Governmentunmatched
  • Fitnessunmatched
  • Foreign Policyunmatched
  • Interpersonal Skillsunmatched
  • Legalunmatched
  • Media Productionunmatched
  • Medical Diagnosisunmatched
  • Performance Metricsunmatched
  • Performance Reviewsunmatched
  • Presentation/Verbal Skillsunmatched
  • Problem Solving Skillsunmatched
  • Program Evaluationunmatched
  • Public Affairsunmatched
  • Public/Media/Press/Analyst Relationsunmatched
  • Reimbursementunmatched
  • Security Clearanceunmatched
  • Strategic Planningunmatched
  • Support Documentationunmatched
  • Team Playerunmatched
  • Time Managementunmatched
  • Top Secret Clearanceunmatched
  • Trend Analysisunmatched
  • United States Citizenunmatched
  • Veterans Benefitsunmatched
  • Writing Skillsunmatched

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