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Media Relations Director for DARPA

Hybrid work opportunity in DC area with onsite support in Ballston, VA. twice per week.

Spire is a full-service communications agency supporting innovative programs in government, technology, healthcare, and science. We seek a senior-level communications professional to work with DARPA to provide expertise in media relations and writing/editing. The ideal candidate will have experience communicating issues related to cutting-edge technology and next-generation components to ensure U.S. dominance.

This is NOT an entry or mid-level position. We seek a highly qualified individual with specific experience who can manage large, multifaceted accounts independently and with minimal supervision. Candidates must have a minimum of 7 years’ experience (10+ preferred), great interpersonal skills, and experience with highly technical and scientific material. The preferred candidate will have direct experience working with defense-related government programs.

A security clearance will be required. You do not have to hold a clearance to apply, but only U.S. citizens will be considered.

Spire’s client roster includes technology companies, government contractors, and large federal agencies working in science and technology.

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What You’ll Do

  • Manage communications for DARPA, serving as a trusted advisor to senior leadership.
  • Provide media relations support, helping educate the public and potential partners regarding DARPA’s innovations.
  • Write content including media announcements, social media posts, media pitches, podcast scripts, and web content.
  • Edit materials for public distribution on behalf of its programs.
  • Media train DARPA executives for media opportunities and speaking engagements.
  • Proactively provide strategic counsel to help the agency identify opportunities to collaborate with partners across the military and industry.

What You’ll Bring to Spire

  • 7+ years of experience (10 or more preferred) in media relations
  • Superior ability to develop and maintain a strong working relationship with clients and subject matter experts
  • Ability to understand and clearly communicate highly complicated information
  • Strong relationships with media and ability to regularly place stories in tier 1 outlets
  • Excellent writing and editing skills
  • Strong understanding of AP style
  • Familiarity with federal plain language requirements

Our benefits

Medical (CareFirst BCBS) and Dental (United Healthcare) plans paid at 100%

Monthly $50 “wellness” stipend for gym memberships, spa services, etc.

Life and disability insurance (short- and long-term)

18 days PTO and 8 federal holidays per year (+Veterans Day for those who have served)

Flexible home/office environment

Home office expense reimbursement

401(k) plan with automatic 3% of salary employer contribution

Employee referral bonuses

Annual stipend for employee and/or job-related training

About Spire

We are a boutique, woman-led agency that specializes in technology, health, and science. Our clients are federal agencies and contractors charged with advanced R&D and vital national programs that make life better for all Americans. Our team is committed to the work of these pioneers and public servants. We believe in their missions, marvel at their innovations, and delight in telling their stories.

Every member of our team is a senior-level communicator. This means every assignment is an opportunity to work with and learn from the best strategists and storytellers—designers, videographers, writers, editors, media relations leads, social media managers, and web developers.

ABOUT DARPA

For sixty years, DARPA has held to a singular and enduring mission: to make pivotal investments in breakthrough technologies for national security. DARPA explicitly reaches for transformational change instead of incremental advances.

Submit an Application

Careers - Application

1. Contact Information

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2. Personal Details

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3. Upload Resume

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4. Submit Application

Before submitting your application, please review and acknowledge the following information:

Equal Opportunity Employer

Spire Communications is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, gender, age, color, religion, disability, veterans’ status, sexual orientation, or any other protected factor.

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