Launch Your Career as a Public Affairs Specialist with ICE

Are you a strategic communicator looking to transition your talents into the federal sector? The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is currently seeking a highly skilled Public Affairs Specialist to join the Office of Public Affairs at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This is a unique opportunity to shape the narrative of one of the nation's most vital federal agencies.

Position Overview

As a Public Affairs Specialist (GS-13), you will serve as a key advisor to leadership on stakeholder reactions and media strategy. You will be responsible for creating informational materials, managing social media channels, and acting as a primary liaison with the news media. This role is perfect for a communications professional who thrives under pressure and understands the importance of precise, transparent information.

Role Comparison Table

Feature	Details
Salary Range	$106,437 - $172,980/year
Grade Level	GS-13
Security Clearance	Secret
Work Environment	Federal/Public Sector
Telework Eligible	Yes

Key Responsibilities

Media Strategy: Develop and write press releases and features designed for local and national media.
Policy Advisory: Participate in high-level policy meetings, offering expert advice on public perception.
Social Media Management: Lead digital engagement strategies to keep stakeholders informed.
Compliance: Ensure all public releases align with the agency's mission and official views.

Requirements for Success

Candidates must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level. You must show the ability to translate complex agency initiatives into clear narratives for the public. Furthermore, because this role handles sensitive information, you must successfully obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.

Benefits of Federal Employment

Federal service comes with an industry-leading benefits package. Employees enjoy competitive pay, comprehensive healthcare, and a secure retirement plan (Thrift Savings Plan). Additionally, you will have access to tuition reimbursement, flexible work schedules, and opportunities for long-term professional development.

Expert Application Tips

Respect the Limit: Keep your resume to exactly two pages. The system will ignore anything past that.
Avoid AI: The agency requires that you write your own responses to the short-essay questions without the help of AI tools.
Be Specific: Quantify your achievements. Instead of saying you 'wrote articles,' describe the impact those articles had on audience reach or policy awareness.

This role is more than just a job; it is a chance to participate in the vital work of protecting our nation. If you have the communication skills and the dedication to public service, we encourage you to apply before the closing date. Your contributions could help ensure the public is well-informed and the agency’s mission remains clear and effective.

Why This Public Affairs Specialist Job Matters

Shape the narrative of national security—join U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement as a Public Affairs Specialist.

Public Affairs Specialist Job Overview

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), is seeking a skilled Public Affairs Specialist to lead agency communications and stakeholder engagement. This high-impact role involves managing information dissemination, advising on public policy, and ensuring that agency initiatives are accurately represented across local and national news media. Candidates will operate in a fast-paced environment where clear, strategic communication is vital to the agency's mission.

Requirements for Public Affairs Specialist

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Must obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.
Submit a resume limited to exactly two pages; additional pages will not be reviewed.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level or equivalent.
Completion of an online assessment questionnaire.
Provide documentation for Veterans preference or ICTAP eligibility, if applicable.

Preferred Qualifications for Public Affairs Specialist

Proven track record in managing agency social media platforms.
Experience in establishing and maintaining robust relationships with news media outlets.
Ability to synthesize complex policy initiatives into accessible information for internal and external audiences.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to act as an advisor for leadership.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
✓Life and long-term care insurance
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement)
✓Flexible Spending Accounts
✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave
✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development
✓Flexible work schedules and telework opportunities

💡 How to Apply Public Affairs Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Public Affairs Specialist Job

Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Submit a two-page resume highlighting specific, qualifying experience.
Upload required supporting documents, including SF-50s or DD-214s.
Complete the USA Hire online assessment upon receiving the notification link.
Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS portal.

💡 General Tips

Stick to the two-page resume limit strictly; do not include cover letters unless explicitly requested.
Ensure your resume includes the name, phone number, and address of past employers.
Use your own words in the essay questions; do not use AI tools, as the agency explicitly prohibits it.
Be specific about your accomplishments and don't just copy-paste duties from the job announcement.
Double-check your email address to ensure you receive the USA Hire assessment link.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum resume length?

You are strictly limited to two pages. Any content beyond the second page will not be reviewed by the hiring team.

Can I use AI to write my responses?

No. The application process requires you to certify that your responses are original and were not generated using Large Language Models like ChatGPT.

Is this position eligible for telework?

Yes, this position is eligible for telework, depending on agency policies.

Job from Immigration And Customs Enforcement

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is the principal investigative arm of the DHS. Established in 2003, ICE plays a critical role in preventing terrorism, combating cross-border crime, and securing our nation's borders. With over 20,000 employees globally, ICE operates at the intersection of public safety and national security. Working here means contributing to a mission that protects American interests and ensures the integrity of our immigration systems.