Become a Public Affairs Specialist with NOAA
Are you a communications professional ready to use your skills for a greater purpose? The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is currently hiring Public Affairs Specialists to support its Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO). This is a unique opportunity to shape the narrative of an agency that touches almost every aspect of life in the United States, from weather forecasting to marine commerce.
Job Responsibilities
As a Public Affairs Specialist, your daily life will be fast-paced and varied. Key duties include:
- Media Relations: Act as a liaison between NOAA personnel and local, national, and international media.
- Content Strategy: Create engaging web stories, scripts, and news releases.
- Outreach: Coordinate facility and vessel tours for the public and government officials.
- Strategic Advisory: Advise upper management on communication trends and the effectiveness of outreach efforts.
- Digital Engagement: Manage and analyze social media platforms to ensure the agency's mission reaches the widest possible audience.
Requirements
To be eligible, you must be a U.S. citizen and successfully complete a background investigation. You must also demonstrate one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level. Applicants should be comfortable with the physical demands of working around maritime facilities, including climbing narrow stairs on NOAA ships.
Salary Overview
This position is part of the DOC Alternative Personnel System (CAPS). Compensation varies based on location and grade level.
| Pay Band | Equivalent GS Level | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| ZA-3 | GS-11/12 | $74,678 - $185,193 |
| ZA-4 | GS-13/14 | $74,678 - $185,193 |
Benefits
Federal employees at NOAA enjoy a robust benefits package that includes:
- Comprehensive Health Insurance
- Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement)
- Generous Annual and Sick Leave
- Flexible Work Schedules (Telework eligible)
Application Tips
- Resume Precision: Keep your resume under two pages. Clearly define your work experience, including whether roles were full-time or part-time.
- Keywords Matter: Ensure your resume highlights specific competencies listed in the job description.
- Attachments: Don't forget your transcripts and DD-214 (if applicable).
If you have a background in public relations and a passion for science communication, this role with NOAA offers a career path like no other. Apply today via the USAJOBS portal to help NOAA tell the story of the Earth, the ocean, and the atmosphere.
Why This Public Affairs Specialist Job Matters
Launch your career with NOAA: Use your communication expertise to amplify the mission of the 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 a team that operates ships, aircraft, and advanced uncrewed systems vital to America's economic and scientific landscape. Whether you are crafting compelling narratives for social media or coordinating high-profile media interviews, your work will directly impact how the public perceives and understands the critical mission of NOAA. This position offers the opportunity to work in various unique coastal locations and engage with diverse audiences, from national journalists to industry partners.
Requirements for Public Affairs Specialist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must pass a background investigation for Moderate Risk Security Clearance.
- Must be registered with the Selective Service, if applicable.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period may be required.
- Must be capable of physical tasks such as climbing steep, narrow stairs and navigating high-threshold doorways on agency vessels.
Preferred Qualifications for Public Affairs Specialist
- Experience in planning and executing strategic media communications.
- Proven ability to manage content creation for social media and web platforms.
- Experience in coordinating high-visibility tours or media events.
- Strong analytical skills to monitor and evaluate communication effectiveness.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health insurance programs
- ✓Life insurance coverage
- ✓Retirement savings plans (Thrift Savings Plan)
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Paid federal holidays
- ✓Potential for telework opportunities
💡 How to Apply Public Affairs Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Public Affairs Specialist Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS account or create a new profile.
- Upload your resume (maximum of two pages).
- Attach supporting documents, including transcripts and veterans' preference paperwork.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Review your application for accuracy.
- Submit your application before the midnight ET deadline on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure you include all required details like hours worked per week.
- Be specific about your specialized experience and how it aligns with the ZA-3 or ZA-4 pay bands.
- Double-check your email address, as all correspondence throughout the hiring process will be digital.
- If claiming veterans' preference, provide legible copies of all required discharge documents.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the ZA-3 and ZA-4 pay bands?
The ZA-3 is a developmental level equivalent to GS-11/12, while the ZA-4 is the full performance level equivalent to GS-13/14.
Is travel required for this role?
Yes, some travel is required, and the position may occasionally necessitate after-hours or weekend work.
Do I need a security clearance?
This position requires a Moderate Risk Security Clearance and successful adjudication of a background investigation.
Job from National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration
NOAA is an agency that enriches life through science. Our dedicated professionals monitor climate, manage fisheries, and provide crucial data that aids emergency managers and planners across the country. The OMAO division specifically oversees the agency's fleet of ships and aircraft, which are essential tools for environmental monitoring and data collection.