Communications Strategist & Speechwriter

There is only one city in the country that can say it is the Nation’s Capital – Washington, D.C. Given that distinction, The Metropolitan Police Department is the premiere law enforcement organization in the city. We receive over 22 million visitors a year, have almost 700,000 residents, and 21,000 private business. The Department consists of more than 4,200 members: approximately 3,550 sworn members and over 650 civilian employees. We are one of the most diverse and highly trained departments in the country. We have the honor of safeguarding and protecting not only our nation’s residents, but also people from all over the world.

The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) offers an attractive benefits package. The benefits package includes competitive compensation, health insurance, prescription drug coverage, dental, vision, short and long term disability and life insurance, as well a strong retirement benefit and savings options. Employees are also eligible for our employer contributed 401a plan after one year of employment. Additional perks such as discounts on wireless carriers, gym memberships, amusement park tickets and much more! Additional information can be found at: DCHR Benefits

This position is located in the Executive Office of the Chief of Police, within the Office of Communications. It is the mission of the Metropolitan Police Department to safeguard the District of Columbia and protect its residents and visitors by providing the highest quality of police service with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to innovation that integrates people, technology and progressive business systems.

The incumbent will be responsible for the following:

• Researches and writes speeches, talking points, and other communications materials for the Chief of Police and other executive level staff.

• Writes scripts and assists in producing video content, including promotional and training videos, to communicate key messages to both internal and external stakeholders.

• Writes memos and other internal communications to keep staff informed and engaged.

• Works collaboratively with the department's executive leadership team to develop and implement communication strategies that support the department's goals and objectives.

• Monitors media coverage and public sentiment about the department and advises executive leadership accordingly.

• Ensures all communication materials align with the department's values, policies, and branding guidelines.

• Assists with other units in the Office of Communications, including the Public Affairs and Relations.

• Helps to develop and maintain the department's website content, ensuring it is current, accurate, and engaging.

• Helps to create content for the department's social media accounts to engage with the community and increase public awareness of departmental activities and initiatives.

• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Thorough knowledge of the principles and practices of internal and external communications, public relations and strategic communications.

• Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills, with a keen attention to detail.

• Ability to write and develop speeches and develop presentations for leadership.

• Ability to develop content for a range of platforms, including websites, social media, and videos.

• Strong project management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.

• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse executives at all levels.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment

• Ability to utilize common software including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, internet software and web-based programs for communications.

• Knowledge of law enforcement and criminal justice issues is a plus, but not required.

Licensures, Certifications and other requirements:

Not Applicable.

Education:

High School Diploma Required. Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field preferred.

Work Experience:

Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the CS-11 grade level, or its non-District equivalent, gained from the public or private sector. Specialized experience includes writing, editing, and developing speeches and presentations for leadership with a keen attention to detail; applying principles and practices of public relations and strategic communications; utilizing common software including Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel and internet software and web-based programs for communications; experience applying project management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines; excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse executives; and the ability to develop and create content for a range of platforms, including websites, social media, and videos.

Work Environment:

Work location is in an office environment. Work is sedentary and may require walking and standing in conjunction with travel and attendance at meeting and conferences away from the work site and carrying light items, such as laptops, papers, books, small parts, and driving an automobile.

Other Significant Factors:

This position operates within the confines of a 24/7 operation. Incumbent of this position may be required to work after-hours including weekends and holidays. Incumbent may also be subjected to rotating shifts, weekend work and changes in days off. This is not a remote position.

A background investigation, to include a criminal, traffic and credit check are required for positions with the Metropolitan Police Department.

The incumbent is required to possess and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator’s permit.

The District of Columbia Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer: all qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, genetic information, disability. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination, which is also prohibited. In addition, harassment based on any of the above-protected categories is prohibited.

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