Senior External Communications Specialist – Public Relations and Government Relations

General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT) has an incredible story to tell. We’re a $9 billion, 28,000-person global IT services and technology company. We are a recognized leader in providing solutions for government and commercial sectors. With an unwavering commitment to innovation, we deliver mission-critical technologies that power government agencies, drive commercial enterprises, and secure the nation’s most pivotal operations.

Our Corporate Marketing and External Communications organization plays a vital role in showcasing GDIT’s capabilities and achievements while fostering trust and engagement among stakeholders. It’s responsible for the development and execution of strategic communication initiatives that amplify GDIT’s brand, strengthen relationships across government and with commercial technology partners and ensure seamless communication during pivotal moments. From public relations to government relations, the External Corporate Communications team is at the helm of delivering a unified and compelling voice for GDIT.

The Senior External  Communications Specialist (Public Relations and Government Relations) will play a key role in executing against the team’s goals.

MEANINGFUL WORK AND PERSONAL IMPACT:

• Support the external communications strategy and execution, including planning, messaging, content creation, speaking opportunities, media relations, and government relations.

• Public Relations:

  • Support the development of press materials, including media pitches, press releases, talking points, executive quotes, FAQs, and briefing documents

  • Develop internal briefing materials for external engagements, including media interviews, event speaking opportunities, and briefings with government officials

  • Maintain media lists, track journalist activity, and research newsworthy opportunities or trends

  • Support executive visibility for senior leaders

  • Assist in issues and reputation management communications monitoring, documentation, and message tracking as needed

• Government and Analyst Relations:

  • Support government relations team with policy tracking, monitoring federal activity, preparing briefings for external engagements, and timely policy insights that can inform business decisions

  • Coordinate engagement with industry research firms like IDC, Forrester, and Gartner

• Awards and Recognition Program:

  • Oversee the GDIT awards program, coordinate, submit and track award submissions

  • Lead the promotion of awards externally

• Coordinate closely with the marketing organization teams to ensure alignment on messaging, timing, and priority initiatives

• Manage projects to keep tasks, deadlines, and cross-team collaboration organized and on track

• Deploy AI tools to drive efficiency in the execution of external communications activities

WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO SUCCEED:

Bring your initiative and drive for innovation to GDIT. The Senior External  Communications Specialist must have:

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, government, public policy, journalism, public relations, or a related field

• 5+ years of experience in media relations, public relations, journalism, government, public policy or related field

• Comfort engaging with trade reporters and media contacts, including in-person and over the phone

• Strong writing and editing skills with attention to detail and clarity

• Familiarity with media monitoring tools; experience producing reports is a plus

• Ability to manage multiple tasks, deadlines, and stakeholders in a fast‑paced environment

• Interest in federal government, defense, national security, technology, and workplace trends

• Location: Hybrid schedule requiring 3 days a week in Falls Church, VA – Headquarters office

Preferred, but not required:

• Experience with Asana or similar project management platforms preferred

• Experience with AI and integrating AI tools into workflows preferred

• Experience working in a government contracting or federal environment preferred

GDIT IS YOUR PLACE:
At GDIT, the mission is our purpose, and our people are at the center of everything we do.
● Growth: AI-powered career tool that identifies career steps and learning opportunities
● Support: An internal mobility team focused on helping you achieve your career goals
● Rewards: Comprehensive benefits and wellness packages, 401K with company match, and competitive pay and paid time off
● Community: Award-winning culture of innovation and a military-friendly workplace

OWN YOUR OPPORTUNITY
Explore a career at GDIT and you’ll find endless opportunities to grow alongside colleagues who share your sense of ownership and pride in the meaningful work we do.