Public Affairs Officer | USDA Forest Service

The Carson National Forest in northern New Mexico and the Coronado National Forest in Arizona are seeking applicants to apply to be their Public Affairs Officer, GS-1035-11/12, on each respective Forest.

The duties include:

• Uses a variety of communications methods and techniques (i.e., written, oral, and visual) in devising the appropriate communication method for each public affairs initiative.
• Represents the Station in meetings and discussions involving individuals, groups, and organizations working in support of, or opposing, the policies, programs, and work of the Station/Forest.
• Makes public statements as necessary within the framework of establishes policy guidelines.
• Plans, directs, and implements a comprehensive public affairs program for the unit.
• Organizes, coordinates and implements effective employee and public meetings, workshops, field trips, or other forums designed to foster employee and public participation.
• Plans and implements the communications initiatives to address critical science issues; explain Forest Service policies, programs, and activities, inform National Forest users; and communications with the publics, news media and elected officials.
• Provides input into the long-range planning, development and coordination of the overall public affairs program for the Station/Forest.
• Analyzes public reaction and recommends changes to improve understanding.
• Recommends methods of minimizing misconceptions and improving understanding of Station direction.
• Participates in the evaluation of the effectiveness of Station science delivery programs and implements improvements.
• Write, edit and supervise the layout of publications and other informational materials to ensure they conform to Agency and government guidelines.
• Write informational materials such as articles for release to the media, news releases and advisories for public information dissemination and fact sheets.
• Writes, edits, and prepares news releases and programs for press, radio, and television, and social media.
• Uses a variety of communications methods and techniques (i.e., written, oral, and visual) in devising the appropriate communication method for each public affairs initiative.
• Foster an inclusive workplace where diversity and individual differences are leveraged to achieve the vision and mission of the organization.
• Promote an inclusive work environment that is free from all types of discrimination.
• Demonstrate a commitment to fostering and promoting an equitable, inclusive, and safe work environment.
• Performs 20% or less supervisory duties.