Public Relations Specialist

Job Type: Long-term W2 Contract

Location: Bethesda, MD

Overview

One of our clients is seeking a Public Relations Specialist to lead strategic communications and high-impact public affairs projects. This role combines message development, media relations, stakeholder engagement, project management, and crisis communications. The ideal candidate is a strong writer and strategic thinker who can tailor messaging to diverse audiences and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute public affairs strategies that promote the organization's mission, services, and initiatives
• Write and edit press releases, talking points, newsletters, speeches, briefings, articles, social media content, and other communications products
• Coordinate media relations, including inquiries, interviews, media visits, and relationships with media outlets and communications organizations
• Develop internal and external stakeholder messaging, monitor coverage, analyze campaign effectiveness, and compile weekly external communications reports
• Plan press conferences, media briefings, and community engagement activities, and support crisis communications strategies
• Maintain website and social media content
• Participate in strategic, access-to-care, and emergency management communications meetings, and coordinate with DHA and NCR communications teams
• Develop communications and community relations plans, strategic messaging, and public perception strategies
• Conduct outreach to medical, military, veteran, federal, and nongovernmental organizations
• Provide strategic counsel, assess communications issues, and support time-critical responses to unfavorable media events

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Project Management, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in public affairs, project management, or a combination of both
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor messaging to diverse audiences
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects at once in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency with project management and digital communications tools
• Knowledge of strategic communication principles, command information programs, social media communications, audience engagement, and communications planning
• Strong relationship-building, interviewing, prioritization, and time-management skills

Preferred Experience

• Familiarity with healthcare systems or military communications
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification