Job Description

Are you an experienced defense and technology writer?

Do you have a passion for communicating research and discoveries critical to the nation's national security?

Are you an organized deadline-driven individual who enjoys a variety of communications-oriented work?

If so, we 're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

We are seeking a Defense and Technology Writer to help the Public Affairs team and focus on internal and external facing stories about APL's contributions to the nation's defense, technological breakthroughs that aid or could aid in ensuring national security, and innovative research enabling the Laboratory to tackle some of the country's toughest technological challenges.

As a Defense and Technology Writer...

• Your primary responsibility will be engaging external audiences with compelling content that focuses on the Laboratory's contributions to the nation's defense and its technological breakthroughs, along with other APL work.

• You will regularly contribute to the Lab's internal, bi-weekly staff newsletter and its external news presence.

• You will support strategic communications planning and rollouts for specific areas, along with other Laboratory communications campaigns programs.

• You will work with other APL departments to ensure consistency in messaging to internal and external audiences.

• You will follow and uphold editorial guidelines.

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you have...

• A Bachelor 's Degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations or related field.

• 5+ years of experience in technical and defense writing.

• Strong writing and communications skills, including previous experience writing news stories, blogs, and/or technical, scientific and defense-related articles.

• Experience turning complex topics into easily-understandable, readable content.

• An ability to work in a dynamic environment as an agile member of a diverse team.

• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, organization and follow-through.

• Ability to work on deadline, set priorities and work independently.

• Strong verbal communication skills with an ability to present ideas coherently and persuasively.

• Are able to obtain Secret level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

• Can demonstrate that you are fully vaccinated against COVID-19. To ensure the safety and well-being of the community, APL has established a policy requiring that all staff be vaccinated against COVID-19. All staff members must provide proof of full vaccination or have an approved medical or religious accommodation by their start date.

You 'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you have...

• A Master's Degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations or related field.

• Prior experience in communications with a Department of Defense-related publications or organizations.

• Proficiency in AP style.

• Experience working across multiple levels of an organization.

• Experience producing videos or writing scripts.

• Media relations experience.

• Hold an active Secret security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

Why work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

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APL is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to promoting an innovative environment that embraces diversity, encourages creativity, and supports inclusion of new ideas. In doing so, we are committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu. Only by ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard are we empowered to be bold, do great things, and make the world a better place.

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