Senior Public Relations Specialist

Aptive is seeking a Senior Public Relations Specialist to lead the execution media relations efforts for a federal client with energy-related communications strategies and services. The ideal candidate will have comprehensive experience leading large-scale communications campaigns for the Department of Energy (DOE) and/or in the energy industry.

The Public Relations Specialist will serve as the technical expert to provide customized, proactive, and reactive media and public relations services. The ideal candidate will have extensive knowledge of local and national media channels and energy-related points of contact. The Senior Public Relations Specialist will work with the client to provide expert recommendations for media strategy to reach desired outcomes and help craft messages.

The ideal candidate is a self-starter, proactive problem-solver and action-oriented team player. He/she must be committed to providing superior service, poised in a fast-paced environment and have a positive and flexible attitude.

This is a full-time, hybrid position in Washington, DC, with a requirement to be onsite a minimum of twice per week. Some additional travel to events may be required.

• Serve as the primary liaison for media points of contact to foster relationships.
• Proactively pitch stories to media contacts within a robust media outreach approach.
• Plan, direct and execute campaigns to convey complex information concerning energy related topics.
• Develop media strategies for cross-cutting campaign informational placement.
• Identify target publications/outlets/audiences, tactics, and methods.
• Provide press and public relations communications services including but not limited to media training, press release, op-ed and media advisory drafting, pitching, and placement.
• Coordinative and writing support for responses to media inquiries across OE.
• Media alerts, press outreach, press clipping services, planning and execution of complex campaign strategies for competitions and other activities, as well as associated analysis and reporting.
• Program and project management support in the planning, development, and coordination of internal and external projects, program events, and miscellaneous types of outreach.
• Provide analysis of and recommendations for media coverage.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with members of the media and other specialized groups.
• Continuously monitor all relevant news sites and social media platforms on related topics.
• Interface with and support government clients, including senior executives.

• 10 years of experience in public relations.
• MA/MS degree in public relations, journalism, or a related field of study.
• Experience with implementing proven successful media relations campaigns.
• Experience providing expert advice related to strategic communications for external stakeholders.
• Extensive knowledge of local and national media channels and points of contact.
• Insight into energy industry media outlets and contacts.
• Authorized to work in the U.S.

• Demonstrated proactive media management and leadership skills.
• Experience supporting federal government clients.
• Ability to get up to speed quickly on complex issues; desire to work in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving environment.
• Capable self-starter with a drive to get all types of work done and high attention to details.
• Ability to work independently and within teams.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Familiarity with Meltwater.
• Outstanding written and verbal communications skills.
• Good time management skills and ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to work well within a team environment.
• Ability to carry out multiple tasks under tight deadlines.

Aptive is a modern federal consulting firm focused on human experience, digital services, and business transformation. We harness creativity, technology, and culture to connect people and systems to impact the world. We’re advisors, strategists, and engineers focused on people, above all else.

We believe in generating success collaboratively, leaving client organizations stronger after every engagement and building trust for the next big challenge. Our work inspires people, fuels change and makes an impact. Join our team to be part of positive change in your community and our nation.

Aptive is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, parental status, veteran status, age, disability, or any other protected class.

Veterans, members of the Reserve and National Guard, and transitioning active-duty service members are highly encouraged to apply.

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