Duties

Summary

This is a full-time position with the Public Information Office at the Supreme Court of the United States in Washington, D.C.

Closing Date : Monday, May 10, 2021, 11:59 PM EDT

Learn more about this agency

Responsibilities

The Public Affairs Specialist responds to information needs, makes effective use of communication and research skills, and provides leadership, advice, and assistance on public information office matters. The position requires a high-level of discretion, independent judgment, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced, changing work environment. The incumbent has personal contact with, and responds orally and in writing to requests from, journalists, Justices, Chambers staff, Court officials and employees, Congressional offices, other federal agencies, and the public. Responsible for media-related matters including responding to often time-sensitive inquiries, assisting with review of credential requests, and providing information on filings, updates, and disposition by the Court. Independently develops and determines approaches and solutions to problems and situations on a day-to-day basis involving news media responsibilities. Serves as the primary contact for public and news media inquiries related to emergency filings, often after business hours. Manages and relays complex information to national and international media. Assists with managing communications and media plans related to Justices' public events. Responsible for managing website content, including assisting with updates to the website and posting public notices. Prepares and submits PIO materials, including press releases, media advisories, and speeches, for the Court's website. Assists in editing, revising, and overseeing the distribution of Court publications. Serves as backup for daily news clips provided to Chambers and Court Offices. Performs duties of the deputy public information officer in the absence of that person and acts as a backup for the other public affairs specialist position.

Travel Required

Not required

Supervisory status
No

Promotion Potential
13

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

• U.S. Citizenship
• Meet Experience Requirements (see Qualifications)
• Employment is subject to successful completion of a security background check.
• If you are a male applicant born after December 31, 1959, you must certify that you have registered with the Selective Service System, or are exempt from having to do so under the Selective Service Law. See: www.sss.gov

Qualifications

Ability to develop and maintain positive working relationships with Court officials and staff, senior officials and other federal agencies, news media, attorneys, and the public. Considerable judgment, discretion, and the ability to independently make decisions and problem-solve under tight deadlines is needed. Ability to communicate clearly, courteously and effectively both orally and in writing with a wide variety of people is essential. Ability to handle multiple tasks and schedules, prioritize activities effectively. Requires understanding of legal publications, Court briefs, and other Court documents. Requires knowledge of the Supreme Court, its policies and procedures, pending Court cases, the Court calendar, and the Supreme Court Rules. Experience dealing with all form of news media is required. Previous supervisory experience in a public affairs or court Clerk's office preferred. Must be highly proficient in Microsoft Office, Internet research, and the use of social media channels and related monitoring tools.

Education

College degree required and five to seven years of experience in public affairs or communications preferred.

Additional information

Working for the Supreme Court of the United States offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes, in part, paid vacation, sick leave, holidays, life insurance, health benefits, and participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System. Additional benefits include flexible spending accounts, long-term care insurance, and the SmartBenefits transit subsidy.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

We will review and assess your application package in comparison with the posted qualifications for the position.

Background checks and security clearance

Security clearance
Not Required

Drug test required
No

Required Documents

The following documents are required:

OF-306 ( http://www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/of0306.pdf )

A resume

A cover letter