REFS - TAPS
Communications Specialist
Background and Introduction:
Jefferson Solutions was awarded a five-year contract to provide technical, administrative, and programmatic support to the Bureau for Resilience, Environment, and Food Security (REFS). Through REFS, USAID works to advance inclusive agriculture-led growth, resilience, nutrition, environmental sustainability, infrastructure and energy, climate change, and water security, sanitation and hygiene initiatives in priority countries around the world to help them accelerate and protect development progress.
The Communications Specialist will provide all functions needed to support Bureau or Operating Unit leadership and teams to operate effectively, and to meet overall objectives. They will support the creation and execution of strategic communications and outreach plans that support Bureau goals, working closely with other members of their team and across the Bureau, Agency, interagency, partner organizations, and the public.
Position Summary:
The Communications Specialist will support day-to-day functions of the Technical Supervisor, Office, or Center to which they are assigned for day-to-day work assignments. Daily activities will include aspects of communications and outreach, content generation, research and analysis, program management and coordination, and knowledge management of REFS-related programs and activities.
Description of Role:
The Communications and Outreach Unit, managed by the REFS Communications Director, guides Bureau strategic communications and outreach in coordination with the Bureau for Legislative and Public Affairs (LPA) and other stakeholders. The central team serves as the external affairs lead among U.S. government departments and agencies engaged in REFS's multi-sectoral work. The team coordinates internal communications within the Bureau and between REFS and other Bureaus; coordinates the Bureau's legislative engagement, providing information to Congress related to legislation and advising Bureau centers and offices on the status of pending legislation and related concerns of members of Congress; and houses the team that manages Bureau taskers and paper flow.
The Communications Specialist will play a crucial role in creating and maintaining effective communication channels, producing high-quality content that engages, educates, and inspires our target audiences. The ideal candidate will have a strong command of the English language, an attention to details, and a flair for creativity. The Communications Specialist will contribute to the monitoring and measurement of the effectiveness of communications efforts through feedback, metrics, and employee surveys, and make necessary improvements. The Specialist will have a substantive role in the content development and management of REFS' digital equities and may be responsible for the drafting and regular maintenance of standard written products. The incumbent will manage and maintain the Bureau's intranet and internal communication tools, ensuring they are up-to-date and user-friendly. Domestic (approx. 2 trips per year) and international (approx. 1 trip per year) travel anticipated.
Key Responsibilities:
Communications and Outreach
Research and Analysis
Program Management and Assistance
Knowledge Management
Qualifications
Jefferson Consulting Group is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, national origin, genetic data, veteran status, or any category protected by law.
Jefferson Consulting Group is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, JCG will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations for the hiring process. If reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact the Human Resources Department at (202) 626-8550 via email: HR@jeffersonconsulting.com