Public Information Officer

Position Description:

Position Summary

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is an exciting and prestigious research facility that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. In addition to its scientific work, the Observatory is committed to outreach and education. The NRAO offers a wide range of programs and resources for students, teachers, and the general public, including tours, lectures, and online resources.

At NRAO, we are seeking a Public Information Officer. This position will oversee and guide the NRAO's efforts to promote the research produced using its facilities, with the goal of increasing awareness of NRAO as a leading NSF research and development facility.

The location for this position may be based at one of our sites (Charlottesville, VA, Socorro, NM or Green Bank, WV), or a remote workstation within the United States may be considered for candidates with sufficient experience, who can work independently while still communicating effectively with the team.

Your Impact

• Develops and executes, in collaboration with the NRAO EPO media team publicity and media campaigns, and advises EPO management on media and public-relations matters
• Researches, develops, writes and coordinates NRAO media materials, including press releases, brochures, fact sheets and backgrounders
• Develops and provides input and support for Web-based information resources
• Writes articles for outside publications such as newspapers, magazines, and websites
• Develops and maintains strong working relationships with internal information sources, with news media personnel, with NRAO's funding agency public affairs staff. Coordinates with NRAO media team staff, supervises temporary employees and public-information interns.
• Assists NRAO management and other staff in preparing lectures and public presentations
• Answers queries from the news media, educators and the general public about the NRAO and astronomy
• Conducts facility tours for news media personnel, and, under AUI/NRAO management direction, elected public officials and their staff members
• Coordinates filming and commercial photography at NRAO sites
• Represents the NRAO at public events and professional meetings
• Provides media training to NRAO scientists and management as required
• Pro-active compliance with NRAO and government safety policies and procedures in own work area is expected
• Other duties may be assigned

Work Environment

Typical office environment with occasional outside work with potential exposure to environmental extremes. Will be required to stand and sit, and operate a personal computer. Will be required to lift 25 pounds or more occasionally and have the ability to assemble/disassemble convention display units and similar equipment. Moderate to extensive travel is required. Must possess a valid driver's license. Must be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, and depth perception.

Who You Are:

• You have a Bachelor's degree in science, education, journalism, or related field. A Master's degree is preferred.
• You have a minimum of five years of experience in journalism, public relations or communications, preferably in connection with a scientific or technical organization required.

Total Rewards:

Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI) offers a comprehensive total rewards package for this position, subject to eligibility requirements. We are committed to serving our employees and their families with an extensive and competitive compensation and benefits package that supports our employees' overall well-being and career growth.

Compensation

AUI strives to attract and retain dedicated, highly qualified, competent, and motivated employees by offering competitive compensation and recognition for performance.

The starting salary of this position is between $60,398 - $84,558. Factors which may affect starting level and pay may include; education, experience, skills, competencies, other qualifications. Internal equity and labor market conditions are taken into consideration when determining starting pay of the successful candidate.

Benefits:

AUI's benefits package addresses the needs of employees and their families with most benefits beginning on the first day of employment. AUI provides excellent paid time off (13 holidays, annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days and 15 sick days, additional time off for doctor/dentist visits, and 8 weeks of paid parental leave). Medical, dental and vision plans are effective on the first day of employment. AUI's retirement benefit contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participant's base pay with no required employee contribution; we also offer an optional supplemental, tax-deferred plan for employee retirement contributions.

Application Instructions:

Select the "Apply Now" button. Please be prepared to upload your current resume and a cover letter interest and suitability for the position.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:

AUI is an equal opportunity employer. To view our complete statement, please visit https://public.nrao.edu/careers. If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, you may submit your request by sending an email to resumes@nrao.edu. PM20

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