Communications Specialist

Description

Do you have a passion for storytelling, writing and translating complex technical topics into compelling communications?

Are you an organized, deadline-driven communications professional who enjoys balancing hands-on content development with strategic communications, media outreach and communications planning?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

As a Communications Specialist, you will develop internal- and external-facing communications across a range of science and engineering disciplines. Writing and content development will be a significant part of your role, including regularly identifying and writing news stories and releases about APL's technical work and contributing to our twice-weekly staff newsletter. You will also serve as a communications resource to technical teams and leaders, helping them identify the right messages, audiences, channels and approaches to meet their communications goals.

You'll work across the Communications Department and with teams throughout APL to translate complex technical information, develop communications strategies and campaigns, support media outreach, and deliver compelling content across multiple formats and channels.

As a Communications Specialist...

• You will identify, develop and write compelling news stories about APL's technical work, research, discoveries, people and impact for internal and external audiences.
• You will regularly contribute to production of APL's twice-weekly digital staff newsletter,. You will also periodically help manage newsletter production in partnership with colleagues.
• You will translate complex scientific and technical information into clear, accurate and engaging content appropriate for different audiences and communications channels.
• You will serve as a communications resource and advisor to technical staff, leaders and other stakeholders, helping them define communications objectives and recommending effective messages, audiences, channels and approaches. You will be expected to turn those recommendations into action—developing and delivering communications yourself and collaborating with graphic design, video, digital and other communications professionals as appropriate.
• You will develop and execute communications plans and integrated campaigns for technical programs, organizational initiatives and Laboratory priorities, from initial strategy through execution as needed.
• You will develop communications products in a variety of formats, which may include news stories, web content, fact sheets, presentations, talking points, briefing materials and other digital or print content.
• You will support media outreach activities, including identifying potential media opportunities, developing story pitches, preparing subject matter experts for interviews and coordinating with colleagues on media engagement.
• You will help shape messaging for technical experts and leaders, tailoring content to meet sponsor and stakeholder communication needs across panels, presentations,  public talks, media engagements and other external-facing activities.
• You will follow and uphold editorial standards and work across the Communications Department and the organization to ensure communications are accurate, consistent and aligned with broader messaging and priorities.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Have a Bachelor's Degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations or a related field.
• Have 3+ years of relevant communications, journalism, public relations or related experience.
• Are an excellent writer and editor with demonstrated experience developing news, feature, technical or other communications content for varied audiences.
• Have demonstrated ability to understand complex subject matter and translate it into clear, compelling content for nontechnical audiences.
• Have experience developing communications plans, campaigns or recommendations based on audience and organizational objectives.
• Have experience supporting media relations, public relations or external communications activities.
• Have strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills and are comfortable working directly with subject matter experts, stakeholders and organizational leaders.
• Can manage multiple assignments and deadlines, set priorities and work independently while collaborating effectively as part of a team.
• Possess strong attention to detail, organization and follow-through.
• Have an ability to work in a dynamic environment as an agile member of a team.
• Are able to obtain a Secret level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact [email protected].

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL’s good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Minimum Rate

$62,900 Annually

Maximum Rate

$180,300 Annually