Communications Specialist - Department of State

The Position: We are seeking driven, thoughtful candidates with experience in communications, policy, and publications to support impactful initiatives for our Federal clients at the U.S. Department of State (DOS) . As a Communications Specialist with Censeo, you will lead stakeholder outreach for a key Department of State program. You will work closely with DOS teams to translate economic and performance findings into policy recommendations and public-facing communications to support the Department’s global mission. Key Responsibilities: Create briefings and presentations for Department of State staff to deliver to other government agencies, Congress, and private sector partners Develop custom economic impact reports for different audiences (government, industry, academia, public policy groups) Produce the Annual Performance Plan and Report, along with Annual Strategic Reviews detailing performance outcomes, evaluation insights, and forward-looking recommendations Issue quarterly and monthly performance briefs to keep all stakeholders informed of progress and emerging issues Generate tailored reports and digital content that translate complex data into actionable insights for policymakers, industry partners, and the public Integrate findings into SelectUSA, Commerce, Labor, and workforce development conversations Offer media and communication support to showcase findings via press releases, webinars, and conferences Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop realistic, innovative solutions to complex challenges Build and maintain strong client relationships, proactively identifying and mitigating delivery risks The Ideal Candidate: At Censeo, we value unique perspectives and a passion for solving complex problems. Our team thrives on innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to public service. We’re looking for candidates who bring curiosity, initiative, and a desire to make a meaningful impact. BA/BS required in Communications, Political Science, Economics, Public Policy, or a closely related field 5-10+ years of experience with strategic communications, performance reporting, policy communications, or federal program support Demonstrated experience supporting or working with Federal agencies (Department of State strongly preferred) Experience managing communications and reporting for complex, data‑driven programs Strong ability to translate complex economic and performance data into clear, concise briefings, executive‑ready presentations, and public‑facing digital content Experience working across organizational boundaries to develop realistic, innovative solutions to complex policy and operational challenges Ability to position findings effectively for public visibility while ensuring accuracy, consistency, and policy alignment Comfort coordinating with communications teams, leadership, and subject‑matter experts on external messaging Excellent written and verbal communication skills including the ability to synthesize complex information Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills Strong attention to detail and accuracy The Company: Censeo Consulting Group is a Washington, D.C.-based management consulting firm dedicated to helping public sector and non-profit clients build operational excellence, deliver better outcomes, and lower cost. We take a personalized approach to strategic consulting to solve our clients’ most complex problems and build operational excellence that transforms their organizations, allowing them to better deliver on their public and social missions. At Censeo, our award-winning culture means you’ll join a tight-knit community of brilliant and passionate colleagues. We are advocates for a better functioning public sector, and we’re also good friends who know the names of each other’s dogs. Our philosophy is horizontal, not hierarchical, and our open-door policy encourages a culture of entrepreneurship at all levels. We share successes, make decisions together, and foster an environment for those with passion and initiative to lead. The Location: Censeo Consulting Group is based in Washington, D.C., with a hybrid work setting offering flexibility to work from home and in our office in downtown Washington, just a few blocks from the White House. Many of our clients are also based in D.C., allowing for meetings with convenient in-person follow-ups. The Fine Print: The salary range for this role is $70,000 - $140,000 depending on experience Expected travel 0-10%; may increase based on business needs This is an exempt, full-time position This role is subject to a hybrid work schedule Essential Physical Functions Sitting: Particularly for sustained periods of time Light Carrying: Physically transporting items weighing less than 15 pounds from one location to another Censeo offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including paid vacation and sick leave, flexible and remote work opportunities, and tuition and training reimbursement. More information on our benefits and perks can be found at Censeo is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing equal opportunity to all applicants and employees in full compliance with all applicable state and federal laws prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, gender, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other class protected by applicable state or federal law. Join Our Award-Winning Culture! Our passion wins awards. But don’t just take it from us… 2024 Vault #41 Consulting 50 North America 2024 Vault #7 Best Consulting Firm for Hours in the Office 2023 Vault #9 Best Consulting Firm for Work/Life Balance 2023 Vault #23 Best Consulting Firm for Overall Diversity 2023 Management Consulted #3 Best Boutique Firms in Washington DC 2022 Vault #41 Best Overall Consulting Firm to Work For 2020 Vault #21 Best Boutique Consulting Firm 2019 Ivy Exec #7 Best Boutique Consulting Firm 2018 Consulting Magazine Best Small Firms to Work For 2017 Vault #12 Best Boutique Consulting Firm 2016 Forbes Best Management Consulting Firms in America 2015 Washington Business Journal’s Philanthropy List #LI-Hybrid #J-18808-Ljbffr