Public Affairs Specialist

Organizational

Location:

Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Public Affairs, Media Division. Vacancies in El Paso, TX;
Laredo, TX; and San Diego, CA. Additional selections may be made for other organizational divisions and/or units within the duty locations listed above.

Salary: $ (GS‑14, Step 1) – $ (GS‑14, Step 10). Locality and special pay rates apply based on geographic area.

• Act as senior spokesperson, representing agency positions to regional, national, and international media outlets.
• Develop and execute comprehensive communication strategies supporting the agency’s mission, including large‑scale media campaigns and crisis communication responses.
• Prepare subject‑matter experts, leadership, and executives for media engagements by developing key messages, talking points, and comprehensive preparation strategies.
• Provide guidance and consultation to public‑affairs liaisons on media engagement policies and procedures.
• Serve as key point of contact for external stakeholders, including media outlets, community organizations, and government agencies.

• U.S. Citizenship required; males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with Selective Service.
• Residence in the United States for at least three of the last five years.
• One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level in: preparing executives for media engagements; acting as senior spokesperson; providing guidance on media engagement; serving as point of contact for media and external stakeholders.
• Background investigation and drug‑free workplace compliance required.
• For current or former federal employees: 52 weeks at the next lower grade or equivalent grade band in the federal service.
• E‑Verify participation.

• Complete mandatory background investigation, including criminal and drug‑related screening.
• Meet residency and statutory eligibility requirements.
• Complete required USA Hire Competency‑Based Assessments within 48 hours of receipt.
• Submit required documentation as stated in the announcement.