STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST – EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS DEPARTMENT: STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING

NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION

Aptive is seeking a strategic communications professional with demonstrated experience working with executive-level Government clients to create numerous, quick-turn communications materials for executives and subject matter experts. Experience writing internal communications and on research and development and/or science and engineering topics is highly preferred.

The ideal candidate possesses impeccable writing and organizational skills and is both strategic and capable of presenting information in written and visual formats. The candidate must also be able to work closely with a senior government executive and the delivery team to create concepts for execution. S/he needs to be capable of developing and/or editing speeches, decks, talking points, background documents, briefs, and other preparatory materials on short timelines and in high-pressure situations. Additionally, this candidate must show a strong commitment to providing both exceptional client services and high-quality products.

This position requires a strategic mindset and a clear understanding of communications best practices. A successful candidate will be highly organized, proactive, and motivated to succeed. S/he should be able to work comfortably both independently and as part of a larger team. A high attention to detail is a must.

This full-time position is located at the National Science Foundation in Alexandria, VA. S/he will need to be able to work both on-site and remotely depending on client need.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS.

• Six to eight years of strategic communications experience.
• Demonstrative experience developing content for print, digital, and social platforms.
• Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, English, or related field.
• Strong organization, time-management, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
• Desire to work in a fast-paced environment carrying out multiple tasks under tight deadlines.
• Exceptional PowerPoint presentation, strategic communication, written, oral and listening skills.
• Leadership skills and aptitude to make informed decisions and recommendations.
• Consultant experience supporting large, complex, executive-level federal clients and presenting information to clients.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a public trust clearance.
• Legal authorization to work in the U.S.

DESIRED SKILLS.

• Writing experience within science and engineering related domains.
• Graphic design and data visualization experience. 
• Background in public affairs and/or working with federal agencies.

JOB DUTIES.

• Help with preparation efforts for numerous meetings, hearings, and events by organizing and coaching executives before, during, and after each experience.
• Develop a wide range of written and visual communications artifacts.
• Develop and nurture meaningful relationships with clients, partners, subject matter experts, industry leaders, and other highly prominent stakeholders.
• Collaborate with the team to develop and execute communications requirements, review content, fact-check insights, and gather feedback.

ABOUT THE CLIENT. The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent agency of the United States government that supports fundamental research and education in all non-medical fields within science and engineering.

ABOUT APTIVE

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.

What's in it for you?

· Competitive compensation

· Health, vision, dental and disability plans with company contributions

· 401K plan with immediate vesting and a competitive company match

· Generous paid time off and flexible work schedules

· Flexible savings accounts

· Commuter benefits

· Company-sponsored professional education and training opportunities

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

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.

This position supports a federal government contract and is subject to compliance with Executive Order 14042, requiring all employees to be fully vaccinated for the COVID 19 virus or be granted an approved medical or religious accommodation. Proof of vaccination or an adjudicated accommodation is requirement of employment for this position.