Launch Your Career: Public Affairs Specialist at NOAA

Are you a communications professional with a passion for science and technology? The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is currently seeking a talented Public Affairs Specialist to join the Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO). This is a rare opportunity to contribute to one of the most critical missions in the federal government.

Job Responsibilities

As a Public Affairs Specialist, you will serve as a key advisor to management, shaping how the agency connects with the public. Key duties include:

Media Relations: Building relationships with journalists and coordinating media coverage of NOAA missions.
Strategic Communications: Developing communication plans to increase awareness of OMAO programs.
Content Production: Drafting speeches, news releases, scripts, and web content.
Digital Outreach: Managing social media channels and analyzing engagement metrics to refine strategy.
Operations Support: Escorting media personnel on NOAA ships and aircraft and assisting with educational outreach efforts.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Requirement	Description
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen
Experience	1 year of specialized experience at the next lower grade
Background	Must pass a Moderate Risk Security Clearance
Documentation	2-page maximum resume required
Physicality	Must be able to navigate steep stairs and ship thresholds

Salary Overview

The position offers a competitive salary range of $74,678 to $185,193 per year, depending on the specific location and the candidate's qualifications under the DOC Alternative Personnel System (CAPS).

Benefits

Federal employees at NOAA enjoy a robust benefits package, including:

Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB)
Generous retirement options (FERS)
Paid annual leave and sick leave
Opportunities for career promotion and growth
Work-life balance with telework options

Application Tips

Watch the Resume Length: Keep your resume under two pages; this is a strict requirement.
Be Specific: Detail your accomplishments and emphasize how your past roles prepared you for federal communications duties.
Use the Resume Builder: The USAJobs Resume Builder is the most effective way to ensure you include every required piece of information.

If you are a strategic communicator looking to make a meaningful difference, this is your chance. Join NOAA and help tell the story of the scientists, aviators, and mariners who keep our planet informed and safe. Apply now via the official USAJobs portal.

Why This Public Affairs Specialist Job Matters

Shape the narrative of ocean and atmospheric science as a Public Affairs Specialist with NOAA’s Office of Marine and Aviation Operations.

Public Affairs Specialist Job Overview

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking a dynamic Public Affairs Specialist to join the Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO). In this role, you will be the voice of NOAA’s fleet—ships, aircraft, diving operations, and uncrewed systems—helping to translate complex technical and scientific achievements into compelling stories for the public and media. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of high-stakes science and public communication, influencing agency strategy while advancing your federal career.

Requirements for Public Affairs Specialist

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must pass a Moderate Risk Security Clearance background investigation.
Must be registered for Selective Service (if applicable).
Must have one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
Must be able to board and tour NOAA ships, including climbing steep/narrow stairs.
Submission of a resume (strictly limited to 2 pages).
Completion of all required application questionnaires and assessments.

Preferred Qualifications for Public Affairs Specialist

Proven experience in developing communication strategies for a complex organization.
Strong background in managing relationships with national and local media outlets.
Demonstrated ability to produce high-quality web content, news releases, and speeches.
Experience utilizing data analytics to track and improve the effectiveness of social media and web outreach.
Mastery of translating technical scientific data for non-technical audiences.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary and advancement opportunities.
✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
✓Life and long-term care insurance programs.
✓Federal Retirement System (FERS) participation.
✓Paid federal holidays and generous leave accrual.
✓Flexible telework options (subject to supervisor approval).
✓Professional development and training opportunities.

💡 How to Apply Public Affairs Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Public Affairs Specialist Job

Review the full job announcement carefully on USAJobs.
Create or update your USAJobs profile and ensure your resume is limited to two pages.
Prepare required documentation, including transcripts (if qualifying via education) and SF-50 forms for current federal employees.
Click the Apply Online button and follow the prompts to complete the questionnaire.
Upload all necessary supporting documents as required.
Submit your application package before 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
Monitor your status via the USAJobs dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJobs Resume Builder to ensure your document contains every required element.
Double-check your resume page count—applications exceeding two pages will be disqualified.
Clearly distinguish between part-time and full-time experience; specify hours per week.
Ensure your email address is active and regularly monitored.
Apply to both the merit promotion and public announcements if you qualify for both.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work remotely for this position?

This position is telework-eligible, though not fully remote. You must be prepared to work on-site at your assigned location (Lakeland, FL; Newport, OR; Newport, RI; or Charleston, SC).

What is the maximum page length for my resume?

Your resume must be no more than 2 pages. Applications with longer resumes will be automatically removed from consideration.

What physical demands should I expect?

The role requires escorting visitors on NOAA ships, which are not handicap accessible. You must be able to climb steep stairs and navigate through narrow thresholds.

Job from National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration

NOAA is an agency that enriches life through science. From daily weather forecasts and severe storm warnings to climate monitoring and coastal restoration, NOAA’s work is vital to the American economy. The OMAO division operates a fleet of specialized ships and aircraft, providing the data necessary to protect the nation and support scientific exploration. As a member of this team, your work will directly support the researchers and professionals dedicated to understanding our planet.