LAC - Communications Specialist

LAC Federal is seeking a skilled Communications Specialist to join our team to work onsite at a United States Navy facility in Dahlgren, VA. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in communications, public relations, or journalism, with proven experience in managing communication programs, supporting media relations, and creating content for various platforms. This role requires a SECRET Clearance and the ability to effectively communicate the Navy’s mission, values, and objectives through various media channels.

Responsibilities:

• Content Creation: Develop, write, and edit content for articles, feature stories, news releases, statements, and other communications materials for electronic, web-based, and hard copy distribution.
• Research & Interviews: Conduct interviews and perform research to gather information for communication pieces, ensuring accuracy and relevance.
• Approval & Release Management: Obtain necessary approvals for content release, ensuring compliance with Navy policies and guidelines.
• Social Media Management: Manage social media platforms using tools like Hootsuite, analyze performance metrics, and develop strategies to enhance engagement and reach.
• Media Relations: Support media relations programs, including drafting press releases, coordinating with media outlets, and managing inquiries.
• Employee Communication: Develop and implement employee communication programs, including newsletters, internal announcements, and other internal communication tools.
• Community Relations: Support community relations initiatives, including planning and executing special events and outreach programs.
• Photography Support: Support photograph for various events and communications needs, ensuring high-quality visual content working with photographers and visual information specialists
• Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including public affairs, marketing, and leadership, to align communication strategies with organizational goals.

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, or marketing
• Two (2) years of relevant experience; May substitute six (6) years of experience for a Bachelor’s degree
• Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills, with the ability to produce clear and engaging content.
• Proficiency in using social media platforms and analytics tools such as Hootsuite.
• Experience in public relations, media relations, and community outreach.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet tight deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience working in a military or government setting.
• Active SECRET Clearance
• Knowledge of Navy-specific communication guidelines and standards.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit for prolonged periods while performing computer-based tasks, writing, editing, and managing digital content.
• Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment, including computers, cameras, and communication tools.
• Capable of walking moderate distances and navigating indoor and outdoor facilities to attend meetings, conduct interviews, or support events.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 20 pounds occasionally, including photography equipment, printed materials, or promotional items.
• Ability to stand for extended periods during on-site events, community outreach programs, or while supporting photography and media coverage.
• Requires visual acuity to review printed and digital content, photography, and video materials, and ensure quality and accuracy.
• Must have auditory capability to engage in interviews, respond to inquiries, and interact effectively in a collaborative team setting or during public engagements.
• May require occasional bending, reaching, or kneeling to support event setup, media coverage, or handling communication materials.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-security environment, including adherence to clearance protocols and Navy facility procedures.
• Occasional local travel may be required to attend or cover off-site events or community engagement activities.

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Short Term & Long-Term Disability
• Training & Development

EEO Statement

The company and its subsidiaries are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate the population of differences and does not discriminate in its hiring/hiring practices, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Nothing in this job specification restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.

To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently.

Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.