This position involves a multi-grade career ladder. The major duties listed below represent the full performance level of GS-13. At the GS-12 grade level, you will perform assignments of a more limited scope and with less independence. You will progressively acquire the background necessary to perform at the full performance level of GS-13. Promotion is at the discretion of the supervisor and is contingent upon satisfactory performance, availability of higher level work, and availability of funds. Promotion is not guaranteed and no promise of promotion is implied. Functions as a public affairs specialist in district/regional office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs with responsibility for developing, and communicating information concerning VA's programs, policies and activities to its national and regional publics. You will develop and transmit informational materials to a variety of publics to enhance the understanding of benefits, services, and practices of the VA for the appropriate and efficient delivery of VAs mission. Advises top agency officials and public affairs liaison/specialists at VA field facilities on public affairs matters. Function as an on-call resource person for these officials on crisis issues. Serves as communications lead for senior Departmental leadership trips to the region. Organize associated media engagements, and prepare the individual for those engagements with current information about the region. Major Duties: Research, analyze, and evaluate quantitative and qualitative data concerning public affairs trends and attitudes. Leverage data analytics from various social media platforms to gauge public's reaction to VA programs and services. Develop and prepare a variety of communications to transmit appropriate informational materials to a variety of publics in order to enhance the understanding of benefits, services, and practices of the VA. Speak effectively for the Department in responding to a wide-range of information requests from the media and public on VA programs and services. Physical Requirements: The work is primarily sedentary. Moderate travel is involved.

The Selective Placement Factor for this position is: You must possess experience in public affairs to direct, or assist in directing, a large regional program responsible for planning, designing, executing, and evaluating a public affairs program.

You may qualify based on your experience, as described below:

Specialized Experience GS-12: You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade GS-11 in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization. Specialized experience includes knowledge and understanding of the news/digital media and communication industry's information gathering and processing systems. Knowledge of news media formats and requirements (e.g., digital, broadcast, radio, and print).