Communications Specialist IV - CETCE

Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Communications Specialist IV to provide support to internal or external communications. This position will develop and implement strategies that deliver innovative solutions to achieve Complex Exposure Threats Center of Excellence (CETCE) mission objectives regarding the communication of research, clinical, and educational efforts. This includes optimizing and redesigning communication and messaging approaches; maximizing operational efficiency with a focus on communications and supporting educational-academic-research efforts; center outreach; and includes resolving process issues and questions (Priority 1). Additionally, demonstrate technical competence and artistic talent to enhance the visual impact of electronic communications; therefore, having an available portfolio of previous work is recommended (Priority 2).

The position will be in support of the Complex Exposure Threats Center (CETC), a sub-center of the Washington DC War Related Illness and Injury Study Center (WRIISC). The WRIISC develops and provides post-deployment health expertise to Veterans and their health care providers through clinical programs, education and risk communication, and research. This role will enhance the outreach and impact of CETCE and the DC WRIISC. The incumbent will closely collaborate with CETCE and DC WRIISC leadership, engage internal and external stakeholders, and serve as a liaison between CETCE, WRIISCs, VHA programs, and outside partners. The goal is to ensure high-quality, messaging and the professional presentation of technical information to various audiences including veterans, healthcare providers, and other stakeholders. Emphasis is placed on improving communication, understanding, and the visual presentation of information related to the CETCE mission.

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. We serve military, medical, academic and government clients by administering, managing and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike. Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners. HJF's support and administrative capabilities allow military medical researchers and clinicians to maintain their scientific focus and accomplish their research goals.

• Assisting in the writing, development, and design of outreach materials, which includes using specialized software and methods beyond standard MS Office tools, including VHA approved web development and data management software.
• Assisting in the dissemination of research findings to non-technical audiences, as well as to clinical and veteran stakeholders.
• Serving as a communications support specialist on relevant research studies, including the creation of slides, posters, flyers, and other outreach materials.
• Supporting multidisciplinary clinical-related projects pertaining to post-deployment health (e.g., Gulf War Illness, TBI, PTSD) through outreach efforts focused on communicating the plans and veteran-facing impacts of CETCE and DC WRIISC.
• Being responsible for the hands-on coordination and development of communication activities that translate clinical work, as well as cutting-edge scientific principles and methodologies, into broader educational services.
• Attaining an effective and comprehensive understanding of the missions and operations of the CETCE in order to best translate or communicate these to internal and external stakeholders.
• Other appropriate duties related to outreach, communications, operations, and artistic/technical enhancements regarding the CETCE as determined by CETCE/DC WRIISC leadership.
• Attending necessary meetings at the DC VAMC.
• Attaining and maintaining required VHA trainings and other VA requirements.
• May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor. This may include attendance of and participation in required training for role.

Education and Experience

• Master's Degree in Public Health, Communications, English, Journalism, Public Relations or related field of study required.
• Minimum of 9-10 years experience required.
• Preference will be given candidates with social media, graphic design, and website skills who have direct experience working on topics related to Veterans' health.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to distill complex ideas and scientific information into language appropriate for a lay audience.
• Exceptional writing skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, research and interview skills.
• Sharp editorial, proofreading and organizational skills.
• Excellent computing skills (IBM-compatible and Mac) and Web skills (familiarity with MS Office Suite including PowerPoint, HTML, etc.).
• Experience with social media, graphic design, and website skills preferred.
• Direct experience working on topics related to veterans health preferred.
• This position requires that you obtain and maintain a T1/Public Trust background check.

Work Environment

• This position will take place primarily in an office setting.

Compensation

• The annual salary range for this position is $93,100-$134,000. Actual salary will be determined based on experience, education, etc.

Benefits

• HJF offers a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on your health and well-being, from medical, dental, and vision coverage to health savings and retirement plans, and more.

Employment with HJF is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, contacting your professional references, verification of previous employment, education and credentials, a criminal background check, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check if applicable. Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.