Social Media Strategist

Social Media StrategistICF Next is seeking a Social Media Strategist to support a high-visibility federal client within the national security space, focused on large-scale recruitment marketing and employer branding initiatives. This is a fully onsite role within a secure government environment requiring close, day-to-day collaboration with client stakeholders. The role supports the execution of data-driven social media strategies that attract high-quality candidates and strengthen the client's employer brand across digital platforms.The strategist will operate in a highly collaborative environment, working closely with government stakeholders and integrated marketing teams to plan, execute, and optimize social media initiatives. The work aligns to a broader recruitment marketing program that includes campaign development, analytics, content strategy, and KPI-driven optimization, requiring both strategic thinking and hands-on execution.All work is performed on site in a secure federal environment in Washington, D.C. Limited telework may be authorized only as permitted by the client and contract requirements.What You Will DoDevelop and execute social media strategies that support national recruitment, hiring campaigns, and employer branding effortsPlan and manage editorial calendars and content pipelines across platforms (LinkedIn, X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube)Create, schedule, and publish content in alignment with brand guidelines, accessibility standards (Section 508), and federal compliance requirementsCollaborate onsite with government stakeholders and cross-functional teams (creative, analytics, paid media, program leadership) to ensure message alignment and approval workflowsMonitor social media channels for engagement, sentiment, and emerging risks, and recommend proactive responsesConduct social listening and trend analysis to inform messaging, campaigns, and audience targeting strategiesAnalyze performance metrics (reach, engagement, conversions, sentiment) and contribute to KPI reporting and optimization effortsSupport real-time and event-based content execution, including rapid-turnaround deliverablesDevelop social media toolkits, including captions, alt text, creative direction, and platform-specific guidanceCoordinate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure consistency across all public-facing communications and channelsBasic QualificationsActive Top Secret (TS) clearance requiredAbility to work onsite full-time in Washington, DCU.S. citizenship requiredBachelor's degree in communications, marketing, public relations, or related field3+ years of professional experience managing organizational or brand social media accountsPreferred QualificationsExperience supporting federal government or public-sector communications programsFamiliarity with recruitment marketing, employer branding, or talent acquisition campaignsExperience using social media management and analytics tools (e.g., Sprout Social, Hootsuite, Meltwater, Brandwatch)Experience supporting data-driven optimization and KPI reporting environmentsFamiliarity with multi-channel campaign integration (paid, owned, earned media)Professional SkillsStrong organizational and coordination skills across multiple stakeholders and workstreamsExcellent written and verbal communication skillsAbility to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environmentStrong attention to detail and commitment to qualityAbility to synthesize information and contribute to strategic decision-makingCollaborative mindset with the ability to work across interdisciplinary teams