PUBLIC AFFAIRS SPECIALIST (T32)

1. Plans, develops, implements, and evaluates a diverse and strategic Public Affairs (PA) program through media and audience analysis, determines PA program needs and organizational direction to achieve unit goals. Formulates long range plans, and develops policies to enhance public understanding, support, and acceptance of unit programs and activities at local, state, national and international levels, which includes the international training and remotely piloted aircraft missions. Advises the Wing Commander and Wing leadership on sensitive or controversial PA matters, to include international affairs related to the training of international students from multiple foreign countries and remotely piloted aircraft foreign and domestic operations. Advises the state Public Affairs Officer, and potentially The Adjutant General (TAG) and Air Component Commander, Air Force and National Guard Bureau Public and representatives on substantive issues related to the Wings flying mission. 30%

2. Develops and writes information materials designed to reach domestic and international audiences through various media such as wire service, radio, television, magazines, newspaper online and social media. Prepares materials specifically to explain or describe the unit mission, international training program, requirements, capabilities, accomplishments, policies and programs. Written materials include news releases, radio spot and television announcements, fact sheets, feature stories, background statements, special reports, etc. for both local and international media sources. 20%

3. Targets and services state and national media markets with print, photographic and electronic materials in support of publicizing the mission of the Wing. Responds to media requests for information of both a routine and controversial nature. Prepares or assembles information kits, edits and rewrites informational material, releases photographs, video and/or other stories of interest stories to news media, studies current issues, coordinates news interviews, and prepares questions to be addressed, arranges photographic and electronic media coverage of newsworthy events involving the Wing, ensures maintenance of unclassified photo library of appropriate material for news releases, and coordinates public affairs airlift and orientation flights for media representatives. 15%

4. Provides PA advice concerning the Wing Mission and state Public Affairs Officer, USAF, NGB Public and TAG, Air Component Commander, Wing leadership, Commander and staff in support of policies and programs of interest to internal audiences. Provides advice and guidance to Wing leadership on sensitive and controversial matters concerning international partners and policies related to PA issues. Analyzes, coordinates, and updates Command Information (CI) plans, policies and programs related to all public, community and media relations (including international media) programs for all unit missions. Prepares and coordinates special projects to inform all guard members, technicians, families and employers of new policies, programs, or activities. Provides guidance and support to subordinate commands on CI matters. Coordinates CI projects with NGB staff or other agencies as appropriate. Researches and analyzes trends in attitudes and opinions of internal audiences to redevelop/refine CI plans and policies. Oversees production of print and electronic media CI projects. 15%

5. As the PA representative for the Wing, establishes and maintains close working relationships with officials of various civic, media, veterans, and community groups, as well as state and federal government officials outside the NG. Expands the base of public support through such relationships, and promotes the interests of NG programs which may be at odds with interests of respective groups. Serves as point of contact with veterans' organizations or defense related associations requesting information from the unit. Responds to public requests and develops materials that expound on the nature and purpose of the unit and the foreign pilot training program. Also responds to requests for information under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). 10%

6. Serves as the unit contact with the Department of Air Force, NGB, Major Air Command, for coordination approval and advises related to the Wing Mission. Provides public affairs annexes to state NG contingency plans. Provides information to NGB for national and/or regional use. Advises the Air Force and NGB, of activities and/or incidents that may generate national, regional, or local criticism, and that may create media, community, international, or congressional interest. Participates in budget process to ensure funding requirements are identified, and adequate funds are requested and available for PA operations. 10%

Performs other duties as assigned.

PLEASE CONTACT HRO FOR COMPLETE POSITION DESCRIPTION.

• NATIONAL GUARD MEMBERSHIP IS REQUIRED. If you are not sure you are eligible for military membership, please contact a National Guard recruiter prior to applying for this position.
• This is an excepted service position that requires membership in a compatible military assignment in the employing state's National Guard, required prior to the effective date of placement.
• Selectee will be required to wear the military uniform.
• Applicants who are not currently a member of the National Guard must be eligible for immediate membership and employment in the National Guard in the military grade listed in this announcement.
• May be required to successfully complete a probationary period.
• Participation in direct deposit is mandatory.
• May occasionally be required to work other than normal duty hours; overtime may be required.

This is an excepted service position that requires membership in a compatible military grade in the Alabama Air National Guard. Applicants who are not currently a member of the Alabama Air National Guard must be eligible for immediate membership. If you are not sure you are eligible for military membership, please contact an Alabama Air National Guard recruiter at (800) 864-6264 prior to applying for this position.

MINIMUM MILITARY RANK: 2LT
MAXIMUM MILITARY RANK: LT COL

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: Each applicant must fully substantiate (in his/her own words) that he/she meets the requirements of the Specialized Experience listed below: Otherwise, the applicant will be considered unqualified for this position. DO NOT COPY THE VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT OR THE POSITION DESCRIPTION.

GENERAL EXPERIENCE: Experience, education or training in administrative, professional, investigative and/or technical work. Experience evaluating information and/or using analytical skills to disseminate effective communication. Experience in compiling reports, letters, memoranda, etc., and required person-to-person contacts to convey information. Experience using computers and automation systems.

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: 1-year experience, education, or training equivalent to at least next lower grade level.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:
Must have knowledge applicable to a wide range of duties involving oral and written communication principles, practices, techniques and methods, analytical methods, and interpersonal relations practices. The incumbent must possess:

--Skill in applying knowledges in the modification of standard methods and the adaptation of approaches in developing new information materials to enhance understanding and support of National Guard programs and/or significant issues.

--Skill in identifying the information needs of various audiences and the most effective methods of assessing their reactions to information provided.

--Skills facilitating evaluation of information program effectiveness.

--Skills in developing new information materials to include, news releases, internal publications, fact sheets, and radio and television broadcast spots.

--Skills sufficient to provide print and broadcast media, trade associations, veteran's organizations, and National Guard associations with timely and accurate explanations of unit policies and activities.

--Knowledge and skill sufficient for determining appropriate information for internal/external publics respectively, and for using discretion in releasing controversial material.

--Skills in developing and maintaining effective relationships with media representatives, unit assigned public affairs personnel and various external groups, to establish and enhance intercommunication between the National Guard and its audiences utilizing media resources.

--Skills sufficient to provide print and broadcast media, trade associations, veteran's organizations, and National Guard associations with timely and accurate explanations of agency policies and activities.

--Knowledge and skills sufficient for determining appropriate information for internal/external publics respectively, and for using discretion in releasing controversial or secure material.



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If you are a male applicant who was born after 12/31/1959 and are required to register under the Military Selective Service Act, the Defense Authorization Act of 1986 requires that you be registered or you are not eligible for appointment in this agency ( ).

**This position be authorized a recruitment or relocation incentive for up to 25%. All incentives be approved prior to the employee in processing.**