Health Communications Specialist Web Communications

$80,000-$90,000

Position Overview

This position will provide coordinate with subject matter experts and spokespersons around media inquiries and media interviews relating to preventing and treating illnesses from respiratory viruses, including COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop proposed responses to media inquiries, facilitate CDC subject matter expert review and clearance of materials, ensure feedback from multiple subject matter experts and leaders is addressed accurately, and provide technical assistance on communication needs.
• Develop talking points in plain language on key issues around respiratory viruses and regularly update/maintain key messages for the media and other audiences on high-profile division topics.
• Provide prompt follow-up on media inquiries, requests for information, and other needs. Serve as a bridge between internal/external subject matter experts and the communication team, bringing valuable input to/from both parties.
• Update and create new communication materials for digital, web, and print publications for public health professionals, health care professionals and consumer audiences on topics involving respiratory virus diseases. This role includes identifying and recommending content updates for communication materials (e.g., fact sheets, newsletters, social media, and slide presentations), with a focus on writing and editing using plain language guidelines and working closely with graphic design staff on layout.
• Translate complex scientific material into plain language messages for media and the public.
• Review materials available for targeted audiences in collaboration with CDC staff and assist in the identification of gaps in existing materials. Ensure health communication products are targeted or tailored for diverse audiences.
• Develop and execute public affairs plans to support high-profile activities, including release of scientific publications, vaccination campaigns, and new surveillance systems.
• Develop positive, effective relationships with senior level officials and scientific experts to determine and negotiate appropriate content updates.

• 3-5 years of related experience
• MPH or Master's in related field such as journalism, communications, or public relations, combined with 5 years of experience in journalism, media relations/public affairs, public relations, and/or health communications, OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
• Strong plain-language writing skills and demonstrated experience in content development are essential.
• At least 3 years of experience in content and materials development, such as developing talking points for media, media briefing documents, one-page fact sheets or brochures, website content, educational materials for consumer audiences, social media, etc.
• Experience responding to media inquiries, often with short deadlines, and coordinating with subject matter experts to ensure accuracy.
• Experience in developing strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills along with outstanding organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Energetic team presence with an eagerness to learn and collaborate with other members of the communication team.
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize competing demands in a fast-paced environment.
• Interest in learning complex public health issues.
• Strong skills with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
• Prior CDC, public health, or healthcare experience.