Media Relations Assistant

KeenLogic is seeking a Media Relations Assistant to support the Department of Justice and the U.S. Attorney’s Office – Southern District of Mississippi. The Media Relations Assistant will support the USAO’s mission of prosecuting and defending cases on behalf of the federal government. This role is responsible for developing and executing a strategic media program aligned with Department of Justice priorities, using radio, television, print, and digital platforms to inform the public about key initiatives. The Media Relations Assistant will help raise awareness of efforts to combat violent crime, prevent fraud, and support community safety programs, while strengthening relationships with local, state, and federal law enforcement partners. Through effective communication and public engagement, this position plays a vital role in promoting transparency, deterring criminal activity, and keeping the community informed. 

This contract spans five years beginning June 24, 2026 (one base year and four option years). Work will be performed on-site in Jackson, MS at the USAO-MSS. Work will be performed on an as-needed basis. The anticipated level of effort is approximately 1,500 hours annually. Evenings, weekends and holidays may be required. Travel may be necessary on an as-needed basis. 

Qualifications 

• Must be a U.S. Citizen and eligible for government clearance 

• 10+ years of relevant experience 

• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications 

• Must have a valid driver’s license and dependable vehicle  

• Ability to make responsible decisions on short notice and adapt to unexpected developments 

Required Experience 

• Knowledge and skill sufficient to develop new information materials including news releases, fact sheets, and articles for publication in appropriate printed media. 

• Knowledge of local court rules, legal documents, processes, and procedures sufficient to present legal information and facts that are readily verifiable for use in news releases, fact sheets, articles for publication and social media. 

• Knowledge of the functions priorities, commitments, policies, and priorities of the USA sufficient to publicize USAO programs, objectives, goals, and accomplishments and law enforcement relationships. 

Duties and Responsibilities 

• Plan, write and edit news releases on USAO priority programs, training and community outreach efforts.  

• Plan, write and edit news releases on USAO cases, achievements and results, to include indictments, change of please, convictions and sentencings. 

• Plans, scripts and coordinates press conferences on USAO priority programs, training, and community outreach efforts. 

• Plans, scripts, and coordinates press conferences on USAO cases, achievements and results, to include indictments, change of pleas, convictions and sentencing. 

• Drafts and places op=ed and other articles approved by the United States Attorney designed to educate the public on USAO programs, goals, objectives and achievements. 

• Identities and facilitates appearance and speaking opportunities for USAO personnel to raise awareness of USAO programs, mission, goals, objectives and achievements. 

• Responds to information requests from local and national news media and community groups on significant USAO program initiatives in written and oral form, which may require detailed explanations of negative comments regarding a particular USAO program or USAO performance in a particular situation. 

• Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with members of the local and national news media and other specialized groups interested in the USAO programs. 

• Monitors social media to effectively publicize USAO programs and achievements and the programs and achievements of local, state and federal law enforcement partners. 

• Analyzes USAO, EOUSA, and Department of Justice program materials and facilitates delivery of such program information to affected individuals and groups. 

• Prepares written materials and press packets to facilitate use of media to deliver messaging desired by USAO. 

• Evaluates the effectiveness and efficiency of the media strategy in achieving greater understanding of the USAO’s mission, goals, objectives and achievements. – Digests USAO media exposure on a weekly basis. 

• Participate in weekly planning sessions with members of office management to discuss upcoming media events and advice on which press releases and social media posts should be prioritized. 

• Performs other related media relations duties as assigned.