Communications Specialist

Job Summary We are seeking a Communications Specialist to support an AI Strategy, Governance, and Operations initiative within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), one of the largest federal agencies in the United States. In this role, you will provide day-to-day communications support to senior technical and program leadership, helping to translate complex AI and technology concepts into clear, accessible messaging for diverse stakeholder audiences. Your work will directly contribute to the VA's mission of delivering world-class care and services to America's Veterans through responsible and transparent AI adoption. The ideal candidate is a highly organized communications professional who is responsive to direction, takes initiative, and can quickly learn technical subject matter in order to accurately and compellingly represent program leadership across digital channels and meetings. You thrive in fast-paced federal environments where clarity, consistency, and attention to detail are paramount. Primary Responsibilities Develop, draft, and refine written communications products — including briefings, talking points, executive summaries, newsletters, and slide decks — that accurately represent program leadership's voice and priorities related to AI strategy and governance. Manage and maintain digital communication channels (e.g., SharePoint sites, Microsoft Teams workspaces, internal portals) to ensure stakeholders have timely access to accurate program information and updates. Coordinate and support internal and external meetings, including preparing agendas, capturing action items, drafting meeting summaries, and ensuring follow-through on communications-related deliverables. Collaborate closely with technical subject matter experts, program managers, and senior leadership to translate AI governance concepts and policy updates into plain-language content appropriate for varied audiences, including non-technical stakeholders. Monitor and respond to communications-related requests and inquiries in a timely and professional manner, triaging tasks according to priority and escalating as appropriate to ensure program leadership is well-represented. Support the development and execution of communications plans and strategies aligned with the VA's AI governance milestones, ensuring consistent messaging across stakeholder groups, leadership channels, and agency-wide initiatives. Minimum Qualifications Minimum of 2+ years of professional experience providing communications support in a technical, government, or similarly complex organizational environment. No minimum education requirement specified; equivalent professional experience in communications, public affairs, technical writing, or a related field is accepted in lieu of a degree. Prior experience supporting federal agency programs, government contractors, or large-scale public sector clients is strongly preferred; familiarity with VA or federal healthcare/technology programs is a plus. Ability to obtain and maintain VA network access and comply with all VA information security, privacy, and onboarding requirements, including completion of mandatory VA training modules. Must be authorized to work in the United States; this position does not offer visa sponsorship. Demonstrated proficiency with common digital productivity and communications tools, including Microsoft Office 365 suite (Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams), SharePoint, and virtual meeting platforms such as Zoom or Webex. Desired Qualifications 1. Experience supporting AI, data, technology modernization, or digital transformation programs within a federal or large healthcare organization. 2. Familiarity with VA organizational structure, VA communications standards, or federal plain language guidelines (e.g., PlainLanguage.gov). 3. Experience developing communications strategies or change management messaging for programs undergoing significant policy or technology change. 4. Exposure to AI governance, responsible AI principles, or emerging technology policy communications in a government or regulated industry context. 5. Experience working in an Agile or iterative program environment and adapting communications deliverables to meet rapidly evolving program needs. About Aptive About Aptive. Aptive partners with federal agencies to achieve their missions through improved performance, streamlined operations and enhanced service delivery. Based in Alexandria, Virginia, we support more than a dozen agencies including Veterans Affairs, Transportation, Defense, Homeland Security and the National Science Foundation. We specialize in applying technology, creativity and human-centered services to optimize mission delivery and improve experiences for millions of people who count on government services every day. Founded: 2012. Employees: 300+ nationwide. EEO Statement Aptive is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, parental status, veteran status, age, disability, or any other protected class. Veterans, members of the Reserve and National Guard, and transitioning active-duty service members are highly encouraged to apply. About Aptive: Aptive partners with federal agencies to achieve their missions through improved performance, streamlined operations and enhanced service delivery. Based in Alexandria, Virginia, we support more than a dozen agencies including Veterans Affairs, Transportation, Defense, Homeland Security and the National Science Foundation. We specialize in applying technology, creativity and human-centered services to optimize mission delivery and improve experiences for millions of people who count on government services every day. Founded: 2012. Employees: 300+ nationwide.