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Job Vacancy Announcement - Health Communications Specialist – Office of Science Policy, Planning, and Communications

Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Office of Science Policy, Planning, and Communications (OSPPC)
Science Writing, Press, and Dissemination Branch (SWPDB)

Program Overview

The NIMH seeks a motivated, experienced Health Communications Specialist to serve in the Science Writing, Press, and Dissemination Branch (SWPDB), Office of Science Policy, Planning, and Communications (OSPPC). The SWPDB disseminates evidence-based mental health information and NIMH research findings to patients, caregivers, providers, researchers, advocates, news media, and other stakeholders. The incumbent will help develop health information products and respond to public inquiries.

Position Duties

The incumbent will serve as a health communications specialist who develops and disseminates information about NIMH, its programs, and the science of mental illnesses to various audiences using print, multimedia, social media, and digital technologies, including the NIMH website. Position duties include collecting, developing, and verifying information accuracy by researching and consulting with subject matter experts and program officials. The position requires translating complex scientific information into plain language and tailoring this information for multiple audiences and channels. They will collaborate with others to develop and coordinate responses to public inquiries on complex or controversial issues.

In addition, the incumbent will track and analyze public inquiries and publication requests to inform dissemination strategies and measure their effectiveness. In collaboration with senior communication specialists, the incumbent will inform and coordinate with other agencies regarding health information and science education and contribute to annual reports, data calls, and other such inquiries.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate is a strong writer with experience translating technical knowledge into plain language for various audiences. The candidate must have at least 1 year of experience developing and evaluating communications products for a variety of audiences and developing responses to public inquiries on various topics. Demonstrated ability to work in a team environment and coordinate with other staff and organizations to accomplish communications activities. Demonstrated ability to effectively organize, prioritize, and execute multiple tasks in a deadline-driven environment. Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.

How to Apply

A Health Communications Specialist announcement will be available from Monday, April 29, through Friday, May 3, 2024.

Visit the Health Communications Specialist, GS-1001-12/13 vacancy announcements, NIH-NIMH-DE-24-12380868  (open to the public), and/or NIH-NIMH-MP-24-12381485  (status candidates) to apply.

Applications must be submitted online from April 29, 2024, until 11:59 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time) on May 3, 2024. Interested candidates are also encouraged to send a letter of interest, including a curriculum vitae, to NIMHsearch@mail.nih.gov.

Please set up notifications via USAJOBS for future announcements that fit your criteria. Visit the NIH Federal Resume Tips website for guidance on creating a federal resume: https://hr.nih.gov/jobs/how-apply/tips-writing-federal-resume 

Benefits

The incumbent will be selected at a salary commensurate with their qualifications and experience. In addition, full benefits, including leave, health, and life insurance, may be provided.

HHS and NIH are equal-opportunity employers.

The Department of Health and Human Services and the National Institutes of Health encourage the application and nomination of qualified women, minorities, and individuals with disabilities. HHS and NIH are equal-opportunity employers. Applications from women, persons from underrepresented groups, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged.