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Public Affairs Specialist

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc.
tuition reimbursement, 401(k)
4141 Colonel Glenn Highway (Show on map)
Jul 28, 2025
The Public Affairs Specialist serves as the primary communications advisor, responsible for developing and executing public affairs strategies to support Department of Defense (DoD) programs, operations, and leadership. This position ensures accurate and effective communication of mission-critical objectives through media, community outreach, and stakeholder engagement while safeguarding classified information. The role requires expertise in crafting messages, managing media relations, and building public understanding of DoD priorities in a dynamic and secure environment.
Due to the sensitivity of communications and operational engagements, candidates must possess an active Top Secret clearance with eligibility for Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI).
Key Responsibilities Public Affairs Planning and Execution
  • Develop and implement comprehensive public affairs strategies to communicate DoD policies, operations, and programs to internal and external audiences.
  • Craft and disseminate press releases, talking points, speeches, and other communication materials for public and senior leadership use.
  • Build public trust and understanding by ensuring consistent, accurate, and mission-aligned messaging across all communication platforms.
Media Relations Management
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for media inquiries, providing timely and accurate responses while adhering to DoD policies on classified information.
  • Maintain and foster relationships with media outlets, journalists, and public affairs officials to promote positive coverage of DoD operations.
  • Prepare and coach leadership for media interviews, press conferences, and public engagements.
Strategic Communication and Messaging
  • Proactively identify opportunities to deliver the DoD's message, highlight successes, and counter disinformation or misinformation.
  • Research audience trends to develop strategies for communicating effectively to diverse stakeholders, including military personnel, policymakers, and the general public.
  • Coordinate communication campaigns to enhance public knowledge of DoD programs, partnerships, and initiatives.
Internal Communications and Stakeholder Engagement
  • Support internal communication efforts by creating newsletters, memos, and other resources to engage DoD staff and stakeholders.
  • Organize and oversee community outreach programs, town halls, and engagement activities.
  • Ensure classified information is handled securely and excluded from public communications materials.
Risk Mitigation and Crisis Communication
  • Develop and execute public affairs plans during crises or emergencies, ensuring clear and decisive messaging aligned with DoD's objectives.
  • Lead media response efforts and provide expert guidance on managing public perception during high-pressure situations.
  • Monitor news outlets and public sentiment to identify risks and recommend mitigation strategies.
Reporting and Analysis
  • Prepare after-action reports to evaluate effectiveness of communication strategies and campaigns, identifying opportunities for improvement.
  • Track media coverage and public sentiment, compiling analytics and insights for leadership review.
  • Present findings and recommendations to senior officials to influence communication strategies.
Key Competencies
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills to convey messages clearly and persuasively.
  • Knowledge of DoD policies, public affairs regulations, and security protocols surrounding information dissemination.
  • Proficiency in handling high-pressure situations, including media crises and emergency communications.
  • Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with various stakeholders, including leadership, media personnel, and community groups.
  • Capability to balance transparency with discretion, safeguarding classified information while ensuring public comprehension.
Basic Qualifications
  • Security Clearance: Active Top Secret clearance with eligibility for Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI).
  • Education: Bachelor's Degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Political Science, or related field. Equivalent military or professional experience may be considered.
  • Experience:
  • Minimum of 6 years in public affairs, strategic communications, or media relations, preferably in DoD or government environments.
  • Demonstrated experience developing communication strategies and managing public affairs efforts.
  • Certifications:
  • Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) or similar certifications are preferred but not required.
  • Familiarity with social media management tools and analytics platforms is an asset.
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  • Interesting Work:



    Our co-workers support some of the most important and critical programs to our national defense and security.






  • Values:



    Our first core value is that employees come first. We challenge our co-workers to provide the highest level of support and service, and reward them with some of the best benefits in the industry.






  • 100% Employee Owned:



    We have a stake in each other's success, and the success of our customers. It's also nice to know what's going on across the company; we have company wide town-hall meetings three times a year.






  • Great Benefits - Most Full-Time Staff Are Eligible for:





    • Starting PTO accrual of 20 days PTO/year + 10 holidays/year


    • Flexible schedules


    • 6% 401k match with immediate vesting


    • Semi-annual bonus eligibility (July and December)


    • Company funded Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) - a separate qualified retirement account


    • Up to $10,000 in annual tuition reimbursement


    • Other company funded benefits, like life and disability insurance


    • Optional zero deductible Blue Cross/Blue Shield health insurance plan







  • Track Record of Success:



    We have grown every year since our founding in 1993.




Modern Technology Solutions, Inc. (MTSI) is a 100% employee-owned engineering services and solutions company that provides high-demand technical expertise in Digital Transformation, Modeling and Simulation, Rapid Capability Development, Test and Evaluation, Artificial Intelligence, Autonomy, Cybersecurity and Mission Assurance

MTSI delivers capabilities to solve problems of global importance. Founded in 1993, MTSI today has employees at over 20 offices and field sites worldwide.

For more information about MTSI, please visit www.mtsi-va.com

MTSI embraces nine core values including our first core value of Employees come first. Consistent with our Core Values, we are committed to Equal Opportunity, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, military/veteran status, disability, or any other characteristics protected by applicable law. MTSI is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity and providing reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with physical and/or mental disabilities.


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