Strategic Public Affairs & Communications Lead

UIC; Maryland; On-site; USD 90,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Bowhead is seeking a Sr. Public Affairs / Communication Specialist to support the NAVAIR contract in Patuxent River, MD. The role focuses on strategic internal and external communications to strengthen visibility, engage stakeholders, and maintain a strong public image.

The position requires a seasoned communications professional with expertise in strategy, content development, and program coordination, including drafting press materials and managing digital channels.

Qualifications

• Ten or more years of relevant experience in public affairs, communications, media relations, or related field.
• MA/MS degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, public affairs, or related discipline.
• Ability to manage complex communication programs and produce high-quality written content.
• Strong understanding of media relations, internal communications, stakeholder engagement, and digital communication tools.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement internal and external communication strategies that support organizational goals.
• Maintain and reinforce the organization’s corporate image and identity through consistent messaging and branding.
• Assess advertising, promotion, and public engagement activities to ensure alignment with communication objectives.
• Create, curate, and publish a monthly CUI newsletter on SharePoint Online, including leadership messages and internal features.
• Draft press releases, speeches, talking points, and executive communication materials.
• Prepare content for distribution to media channels and respond to media inquiries.
• Manage digital and social media efforts to monitor engagement and assess public sentiment.
• Coordinate the organization’s internal awards program, including communication cycles and event support.
• Arrange interviews, briefings, and public appearances for senior leadership.
• Develop speeches or executive messaging to support major organizational initiatives and events.

Skills

Public affairs

Communications strategy

Media relations

Content development

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Master's degree in communications or related field

Bachelor’s degree + 2 years experience substituting for Master’s

Tools

SharePoint Online

Job description

Bowhead is seeking a Sr. Public Affairs / Communication Specialist to support the NAVAIR contract in Patuxent River, MD. The role focuses on strategic internal and external communications to strengthen visibility, engage stakeholders, and maintain a strong public image.

The position requires a seasoned communications professional with expertise in strategy, content development, and program coordination, including drafting press materials and managing digital channels.