Rapid Response Director

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* Location:

** Washington, DC  
** Type of Employment:
** Full-Time
** Overall Responsibility:
** America First Works (AFW) is seeking a Rapid Response Director to lead and coordinate the organization’s real-time issue advocacy and communications efforts in response to breaking news, legislative developments, and emerging opportunities. The ideal candidate is a fast-moving, highly strategic communicator with a deep understanding of the media cycle, policy landscape, and political environment—all in service of advancing the America First Agenda.

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Lead AFW’s rapid response operations, including the development and deployment of immediate communications and advocacy strategies tied to breaking news or policy shifts.  
• Coordinate with the AFW Executive Director and the communication team to ensure unified messaging across platforms and audiences.  
• Draft and approve rapid-response materials such as press statements, digital content, op-eds, talking points, and issue briefs.  
• Monitor federal and state legislative activity, media coverage, and political developments for timely response opportunities.  
• Serve as a key point of contact with media and strategic partners during high-profile moments or crisis communications scenarios.  
• Manage and update rapid response protocols to ensure cross-team agility and readiness.  
• Work closely with the digital team to amplify rapid response content through social, email, and web channels.  
• Coordinate with field and coalition partners to activate grassroots or grasstops support as needed.  
• Provide briefing materials and real-time updates to senior leadership and spokespeople during priority developments.  
• Track and report on rapid response efforts, media hits, and engagement metrics to inform strategy and future planning.  
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* Qualifications:

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* • Bachelor’s degree in communications, political science, public relations, journalism, or a related field; advanced degree a plus.  
• 5–8 years of experience in communications, public affairs, political campaigns, or policy advocacy—preferably within a fast-paced, issue-driven environment.  
• Demonstrated success in executing rapid response strategies with measurable impact.  
• Exceptional writing and editing skills, especially under tight deadlines.  
• Strong news judgment and deep understanding of media cycles and political narratives.  
• Proven ability to work cross-functionally and lead collaborative, time-sensitive projects.  
• Experience managing media relations, messaging strategy, and digital coordination.  
• Comfortable representing the organization in high-pressure situations or during crisis moments.  
• Ability to work extended hours or respond after hours during high-priority developments.  
• Familiarity with media monitoring tools, CRM systems, and digital publishing platforms.  
** Compensation:
** Salaries for positions will be commensurate with the experience, expertise, and skills of the individual.
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