Public Information Officer

Position Description:Position SummaryThe National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research and development organization that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. Associated Universities Inc. (AUI) is a nonprofit organization that manages and operates the NRAO under a cooperative agreement with the National Science Foundation. The Observatory is a hub for technological and scientific collaboration operating state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. The Observatory has been instrumental in the study of black holes galaxies and the early NRAO we are recruiting a Public Information Officer. The role of Public Information Officer part of the Education and Public Outreach Public Information Group is a unique role that shares stories about NRAOs scientific and technological innovations with the general public. This position will produce a wide variety of public information materials support NRAO staff and partners in outreach and coordinate access to unique and one-of-a-kind facilities with the goal of elevating NRAOs public location for this position may be based at one of our U.S. sites (Charlottesville VA Socorro NM or Green Bank WV) or a remote workstation within the U.S. may be considered for candidates with sufficient experience who can work independently while effectively completing their work with the You Will be Doing:Research develop and produce NRAO public information materials including press releases blog posts announcements briefs presentations talking points and other public information productsProvide input and support for content produced by EPO colleagues for the web e-blasts video and social media familiarity or experience with digital media production platforms or AI is a plus!Develops and maintains strong working relationships with colleagues across all NRAO divisions and sites the press media producers and external partnersAs needed assist NRAO leadership and other staff in preparing materials for presentations to the general public and media training for interviewsSupport public relations by answering requests from journalists media producers educators and the general public about NRAO Support visits and tours for media producers and VIPs including film and photography at NRAO facilities Support EPO outreach activities and special events represent NRAO at public events and professional meetingsDocument projects and work following established processes in Public Information Group using platforms such as Jira the Google Suite and Microsoft Suite (Outlook Teams Share Point One Drive)Compliance with NRAO and government safety policies and procedures in own work area is expectedDepending on work location or project assignments travel can be expected 2-4 times a year for conferences outreach and special eventsOther duties may be assignedWork EnvironmentTypical 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 drivers license. Must be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Specific vision abilities include close vision distance vision and depth You Are:EducationYou have a Bachelors degree in education communication science or related field. A Masters degree is candidates from non-traditional educational backgrounds work experience may be considered in lieu of academic degreesExperienceYou have a minimum of five years of experience in journalism public relations or communications preferably in connection with a scientific or technical organization requiredSkills and CompetenciesHigh level of competency in Microsoft software products and web-based systems Visio and to detail is criticalHighly organizedExcellent communication skillsAdditional RequirementObservatory employees must be authorized to work in the United States. The Observatory presently cannot sponsor H-1B Visas for this Rewards:CompensationThe starting salary/hourly rate of this position is between $76000-$84558. Factors which may affect starting pay within this range may include; education experience skills competencies other qualifications of the successful candidate as well as internal equity and labor market :Associated Universities Inc (AUI) offers a comprehensive benefits package addressing the needs of employees and their families with most benefits beginning on the first day of employment subject to eligibility requirements. AUI provides:Excellent paid time off (13 holidays annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days)Medical dental and vision plans are effective on the first day of retirement benefit contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participants base pay with no required employee Total Rewards for more Instructions:Select the Apply button above. Please be prepared to upload your current CV/Resume and a cover letter describing interest and suitability for the Opportunity Employer Statement:AUI is an equal opportunity employer. To view our complete statement please visit If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process you may submit your request by sending an email to