Senior Communications Specialist

The Senior Communications Specialist will support the CISA SLTT Communications Support contract by leading development of communications products, toolkit materials, and research-driven outreach campaigns that help state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) stakeholders strengthen cybersecurity and physical security practices. This role works closely with the Program Manager to shape messaging strategy, mentor junior team members, and ensure communications products are polished, accurate, and ready for CISA and SLTT audiences.

The Senior Communications Specialist role requires a self-starter, proactive problem solver and action-oriented team player with previous experience in management consulting and business development pursuits. This position needs an individual that is committed to providing superior service, poised under pressure and has a positive and flexible attitude.

This is a contingent hire position. Offers will be contingent upon client approval, ability to meet security requirements, and the ability to adhere to any on-site requirements (which may change at contract award).

Remote work is anticipated. However, occasional travel for client engagements may be required.

• Lead development of the cybersecurity and physical security toolkit for SLTT stakeholders, including fact sheets, statistics, short engaging videos, and customizable templates such as posters, articles, and presentations.
• Lead research and analysis on SLTT-level cybersecurity volunteer program best practices and SLTT awareness of CISA resources, and develop the resulting outreach campaign to share effective models and encourage adoption of good practices.
• Draft and edit communications materials, presentations, and graphics supporting CISA-hosted live events (up to two per contract year, e.g., conferences, summits, roundtables) and livestreamed events (up to four per contract year, e.g., webinars, fireside chats), and provide staffing support during events.
• Lead development of social media campaign content for the CISA Resilience Challenge, highlighting vetted and cleared SLTT cybersecurity success stories, and support the public capstone event.
• Review and quality-check communications deliverables for accuracy, clarity, and consistency with CISA branding and messaging standards prior to submission to the COR.
• Mentor and provide guidance to junior communications and events staff on messaging strategy and deliverable quality.
• Support preparation of monthly progress report inputs and other contract deliverables, as directed by the Program Manager.
• Coordinate with CISA stakeholders and SLTT partners to ensure communications products reflect accurate, clear, and user-friendly messaging.
• Support compliance with Section 508 accessibility requirements for electronic communications materials and deliverables.

• 7+ years of relevant experience in communications, marketing, public affairs, or a related field.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• Currently holds, or is able to obtain, a DHS Fitness Determination/DHS Suitability.
• Demonstrated experience developing communications, toolkit, or campaign materials for a federal government client, preferably in a health or homeland security setting.
• Experience reviewing and quality-checking communications products for accuracy and consistency, and providing guidance to junior staff.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.
• Ability to obtain and maintain DHS Suitability/a Public Trust clearance.
• Legal authorization to work in the U.S.

• Strong critical thinking, analytical and time management skills.
• Proven ability to organize, prioritize and work well with others.
• Ability to communicate thoughts, ideas and solutions logically both written and orally.
• Ability to stay calm under pressure and in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to receive feedback from clients and implement changes quickly and effectively.
• Ability to get up to speed quickly on complex issues.
• Desire to work in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving environment.