National Security Strategic Communications (Program Lead) (TS/SCI Security Clearance Required)

Protagonist; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 124,000 - 148,000; Full time

Job summary

Protagonist is seeking a National Security Strategic Communications Director in Washington, D.C. to support the U.S. Air Force. This role involves leading a strategic communications program, managing a small team, and ensuring high-quality support to leadership.

The ideal candidate has an advanced degree, 15+ years of experience in strategic communications, and requires an active TS/SCI clearance. The salary range is $124,000–$148,000 based on education and experience.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in strategic communications, public affairs, or related fields.
• Experience supporting senior government leaders, preferably in Air Force/DoD.
• Strong ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Support daily needs of a U.S. government executive leader in communications.
• Serve as contract lead ensuring performance and quality.
• Develop communication products for senior leaders.

Skills

Strategic communications

Project management

Excellent writing skills

Communication skills

Education

Advanced (MS/ME) degree

Job description

Protagonist fuses rigorous analysis with our Narrative Analytics® platform to quantitatively analyze open‑source media, deliver strategic recommendations, and craft executive‑level communication strategies for clients with missions that matter.

Job Description

Parenthetic, a subsidiary of Protagonist, is seeking a National Security Strategic Communications Director (Program Lead) to support a U.S. Air Force customer. The role leads day‑to‑day execution of a strategic communications program—managing deliverables, leading a small team, and ensuring consistent, high‑quality support to front‑office leadership.

Responsibilities

• Support daily needs of a high‑profile U.S. government executive leader in both internal and external communications in a fast‑paced, high‑stakes environment
• Serve as contract lead, ensuring performance, quality, and client satisfaction
• Develop communication products (briefings, reports, messaging, etc.) for senior leaders
• Manage and mentor a small team
• Coordinate across stakeholders to keep work aligned and on schedule
• Translate technical or complex topics into clear, actionable communications

Requirements

• On‑site work (limited remote opportunities) in the Washington Metropolitan Area (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) for a Federal Government client; occasional domestic travel may be required
• Active TS/SCI clearance required (with prior experience in an SAP and/or SCI environment)
• Advanced (MS/ME) degree with 15+ years of work experience in strategic communications, public affairs, or related fields
• Experience supporting senior government leaders (Air Force/DoD preferred)
• Strong program or project management experience
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver under tight timelines
• Excellent writing and communication skills

Additional Information

Protagonist is dedicated to fostering a welcoming and innovative environment where everyone's voice can make a difference.

Protagonist is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Salary Range: $124,000–$148,000 based on education and level of relevant experience.

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.