The Communications & Media Relations Specialist provides expert-level communications, outreach, and media relations support for the Office of Head Start (OHS), Central Office Customer Service contract. This role supports senior OHS leadership in developing, managing, and disseminating information to key external stakeholders, including federal agencies, state officials, the general public, and media outlets. The specialist identifies communication needs, creates high-quality materials, and ensures the accurate representation of agency programs, policies, and initiatives.
This position will require on-site in the office 5 days a week in DC.
Key Responsibilities:
- Communications & Outreach
- Develop, draft, edit, and distribute a wide range of communication materials that clearly articulate OHS policies, programs, services, and activities.
- Identify communication needs across OHS programs and proactively develop messaging strategies to reach appropriate audiences.
- Prepare talking points, briefing materials, fact sheets, press releases, newsletters, and other communication products as required.
- Support development of public-facing content in various formats, including website updates, social media messaging (as permitted by OHS), and multimedia materials.
- Provide professional media relations support, including developing responses to media inquiries, coordinating interviews, and crafting approved public statements.
- Monitor trends, issues, and media interest areas that may impact OHS programs and provide recommendations to leadership.
- Collaborate closely with program and data teams to ensure messaging aligns with program priorities and findings.
- Assist with the design, development, testing, and implementation of communication strategies for newly proposed services or program enhancements.
- Contribute to efforts that support improvements in data analysis, information management, and OHS operational efficiency.
Required Qualification :
- Bachelor's or master's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, public administration, or related field.
- 3+ years of experience in communications, media relations, public affairs, or government outreach.
- 2+ years of experience preparing professional communication materials for senior leadership or public dissemination.
- 2+ years of experience working with or supporting federal agencies, state agencies, or public-serving organizations.
- US government issued security clearance required (will be initiated upon hire)
- Valid driver’s license and ability to pass an MVR check.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience supporting HHS, ACF, or OHS programs.
- Familiarity with federal communication regulations and guidelines.
- Experience developing communication strategies for large-scale government programs.
- Knowledge of media monitoring tools or public outreach platforms.
- Strong writing, editing, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely.
- Ability to build effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including media outlets and government officials.
- High attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple assignments under tight deadlines.
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Working at ICF
ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we’re not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer. Together, our employees are empowered to share their expertise and collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read our EEO policy.
We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an accommodation, please email [email protected] and we will be happy to assist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations.
Read more about workplace discrimination rights or our benefit offerings which are included in the Transparency in (Benefits) Coverage Act.
At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is not permitted. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the interview process.
However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodation that involves the use of AI. If such an accommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at [email protected]. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.
Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.
The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:
$60,967.00 - $103,643.00DC Client Office (DC88)Skills Required
- Bachelor's or master's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, public administration, or related field
- 3+ years of experience in communications, media relations, public affairs, or government outreach
- 2+ years of experience preparing professional communication materials for senior leadership or public dissemination
- 2+ years of experience working with or supporting federal agencies, state agencies, or public-serving organizations
- US government issued security clearance
- Valid driver's license and ability to pass an MVR check
ICF Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about ICF and has not been reviewed or approved by ICF.
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Healthcare Strength — Healthcare coverage appears comprehensive, with multiple medical plan options plus dental and vision coverage. Mental-health support is also emphasized through an EAP offering therapy and coaching sessions alongside other wellbeing resources.
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Retirement Support — Retirement benefits include a 401(k) match with immediate vesting, which strengthens the long-term value of the package. An employee stock purchase plan is also described as available, adding another savings/ownership pathway.
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Parental & Family Support — Family-building benefits include fertility/surrogacy and adoption reimbursements and additional support services for parents. These programs broaden the total rewards proposition beyond base pay.
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At ICF, we’ve built a culture rooted in expertise, innovation, and purpose—enabling us to build a more prosperous and resilient world for all. When our employees grow, our solutions thrive—regardless of your role, team, or location, you’ll have opportunities to make connections, build community, and take action to develop your career.
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