Public Affairs Specialist

The position is located at a Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) medical facility at the VA Bronx Healthcare System. The purpose of the work is to plan and conduct a public affairs program of a large and complex medical facility.

Prepares scripts, audio-visual materials and brochures for ceremonies, briefings and orientations. Originates, provides guidance and over-sees the preparation of public speeches and statements used by or issued by the medical facility director. Develops short and long-term public affairs action plans.

Identifies items for information dissemination based on knowledge of medical facility mission and the recognized need for public or internal knowledge of the purposes and backgrounds of facility programs. Arranges for special group tours and participates in special events. Recommends the adoption of innovative public affairs policies, strategies, approaches to the Department Public Affairs Officer.

Initiates and prepares responses to inquiries from interested groups and the general public concerning policies and activities of the medical facility public involvement program. Establishes cooperative working relationships with the local and regional media; writes and disseminates news releases and feature articles regarding the medical facility mission, functions, programs, and policies to print and broadcast media representatives. Organizes and coordinates print and broadcast media interviews with staff members; and oversees all arrangements with the media involving medical facility activities.

Establish relationships with internal and external stakeholders Evaluates and advises management officials on specific courses of action to follow in making public announcements, particularly on policy statements which inform the public on medical facility positions. Cultivates and maintains contacts with institutions, state and city officials, community organizations, industry and other centers of influence to improve the public's understanding and awareness of medical facility activities. Analyzes and evaluates comments, proposals or suggestions in the local community, among employees and in the media outlets in developing recommendations for management concerning the medical facility's impact in the community.

Work Schedule: 08:00-4:30p Telework: Ad-hoc Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Position Description/PD#: Public Affairs Specialist/PD20G33O Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized