ROLE

• Develop media strategies aligned with USAO and DOJ priorities
• Write and edit news releases for USAO priority programs and initiatives
• Prepare public communications related to cases, achievements, results, and sentencing actions
• Coordinate press conferences for USAO programs, cases, training, and community outreach efforts
• Draft op-eds, articles, and other public-facing materials approved by USAO leadership
• Identify speaking and appearance opportunities for USAO personnel
• Respond to information requests from local and national media outlets
• Address inquiries from community groups regarding USAO initiatives and programs
• Maintain working relationships with local, regional, and national media contacts
• Build relationships with community stakeholders and specialized interest groups
• Monitor social media to support public awareness of USAO programs and achievements
• Analyze USAO, EOUSA, and DOJ program materials for public communications use
• Prepare written materials and press packets for media outreach and public messaging
• Promote USAO programs, goals, objectives, accomplishments, and law enforcement partnerships
• Evaluate the effectiveness of media strategies and public communications efforts
• Compile weekly summaries of USAO media exposure and related public coverage
• Participate in weekly planning sessions with office management and USAO personnel
• Recommend press release and social media priorities based on upcoming events and case activity
• Support public awareness of violent crime prevention, fraud prevention, and other USAO priorities
• Publicize USAO partnerships with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies
• Apply DOJ, USAO, and media relations policies, procedures, and best practices
• Perform related media relations and public affairs duties as assigned

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and public-facing digital communications tools
• Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to support sensitive public messaging)
• Strong knowledge of media relations principles, practices, procedures, and outreach methods
• Knowledge of local Mississippi media outlets, communications channels, community stakeholders, public info networks
• Knowledge of social media platforms and strategies used to educate public and promote program awareness
• Ability to write news releases, fact sheets, articles, public information materials, and related media content
• Ability to respond to media and community inquiries with professionalism, sound judgment, and appropriate discretion
• Ability to make responsible decisions on short notice and adapt to unexpected/shifting developments
• Established presence within the USAO SDMS local community

• At least ten years of demonstrated experience in a similar position required
• Valid driver’s license and dependable vehicle required
• Experience supporting media relations, public affairs, communications, or journalism required
• Experience working with local media outlets and community stakeholders required
• Experience drafting press releases, public statements, articles, or outreach materials required
• Experience coordinating press conferences, media events, or public outreach preferred
• Experience supporting government, legal, public safety, or law enforcement communications preferred

• High school diploma required
• Undergraduate degree preferred