Public Relations Associate, Web and Social Media

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Public Relations Associate, Web and Social Media

🔹 Company: Vistra Communications

🔹 Location: Alexandria, Virginia

🔹 Job Type: Full-time, On-site

🔹 Category: Public Relations and Communications Services

🔹 Date Posted: May 30, 2025

🔹 Experience Level: 2-5 years

🔹 Remote Status: On-site (within 50 miles of Mark Center, Alexandria, VA)

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Supporting the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO) within Defense Human Resources Activity (DHRA)
• Developing web content and design mockups adhering to DoD Brand Guide, USWDS, and SAPRO brand guidelines
• Analyzing website and social media metrics to determine content performance and make recommendations
• Participating in the development and execution of comprehensive communications plans and social marketing initiatives
• Operating at a high tempo to address short or no notice taskers and adapt to emerging requirements

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of adaptability and quick response times due to the nature of the program and its stakeholders.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Create design mockups that are attractive, responsive, and adhere to accessibility guidelines

✅ Participate in the development, tracking, and execution of a government-approved social media and marketing communication program

✅ Analyze news, website, and social media listening data to determine content performance and make recommendations

✅ Conduct both proactive and passive media surveillance for news related to the DoD SAPR mission

✅ Develop and disseminate daily and weekly reports of media stories within the current news cycle and social media posts

ASSUMPTION: This role involves a mix of creative and analytical tasks, requiring strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Web Development or Web/Graphic Design, Computer Science, Public Relations, Communications, Marketing, or a related field.

Experience: One to three years of experience in web design and development and website and social listening within public or private sector organizations

Required Skills:

• Proficient in web design and development, with knowledge of Section 508 accessibility guidelines and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines

Preferred Skills:

• Prior DOD experience, especially within DHRA, the Office of Force Resilience (OFR), or with the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness (OUSD-P&R)
• Fluency in using social media platforms and analytics tools
• Experience with content management systems (CMS) and website analytics tools

ASSUMPTION: While not explicitly stated, proficiency in using design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, Figma) and familiarity with Agile methodologies would be beneficial for this role.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $55,000 - $75,000 per year (based on industry standards for similar roles in the Alexandria, VA area)

Benefits:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Paid time off (vacation, sick, and holidays)
• Employee assistance program
• Professional development opportunities

Working Hours: Full-time, Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (with flexibility for occasional overtime as needed)

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for similar roles in the Alexandria, VA area. Actual compensation may vary based on experience and qualifications.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: Vistra Communications specializes in integrated marketing, communications, and consulting services for corporate, government, and nonprofit clients. The company is known for its expertise in public relations, community engagement, marketing, and graphic/creative design.

Company Size: Vistra Communications is a mid-sized company with 51-200 employees, providing a supportive and collaborative work environment.

Founded: Vistra Communications was founded in 2007 and is headquartered in Lutz, FL, with an additional office in Alexandria, VA.

Company Description:

• Vistra Communications is an integrated marketing, communications, and consulting agency that provides solutions to corporate, government, and nonprofit clients.
• The company is consistently recognized as one of the top communications companies in the U.S. and an outstanding Veteran-owned, minority-owned small business.
• Vistra is a Certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB).

Company Specialties:

• Public Relations
• Communications & Marketing Plans
• Advertising
• Brand Management
• Creative/Graphic Design
• Crisis Communications
• Email Marketing
• Media Relations
• Press Releases
• Social Media Campaigns
• Strategic Communications
• Video Production
• GIS Mapping
• Quantitative & Qualitative Research
• Surveys
• Polling & Focus Groups
• External & Internal Communications
• Public Affairs
• Executive Media Coaching & Training
• Website Development & Management
• Media Buying & Planning

Company Website: https://www.ConsultVistra.com

ASSUMPTION: Working at Vistra Communications offers opportunities to collaborate with diverse clients and contribute to meaningful projects in various industries.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: This role is an associate-level position, offering opportunities for growth and professional development within the company.

Reporting Structure: The Public Relations Associate will report directly to the manager of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO) within Defense Human Resources Activity (DHRA).

Work Arrangement: This role requires regular on-site presence at the Mark Center in Alexandria, VA, with occasional flexibility for remote work.

Growth Opportunities:

• Expanding skills in web design, development, and social media management
• Gaining experience working with government clients and military personnel
• Potential opportunities to take on more responsibilities and advance within the company

ASSUMPTION: This role offers opportunities for professional growth and development within the company, as well as the chance to work on high-impact projects for the Department of Defense.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: The primary office for this role is located at the Mark Center in Alexandria, VA, with a collaborative and professional work environment.

Office Location(s): 4800 Mark Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22350

Geographic Context:

• The Mark Center is conveniently located near the Capital Beltway (I-495) and the George Washington Memorial Parkway, providing easy access to major highways and public transportation.
• The office is situated in a mixed-use development with nearby amenities, including restaurants, shops, and outdoor recreational areas.
• The Alexandria area offers a diverse cultural scene, historic sites, and a vibrant downtown district.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule for this role is Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, with occasional flexibility for overtime as needed.

ASSUMPTION: The work environment at the Mark Center is professional and collaborative, with opportunities for team-building and networking with other government and military personnel.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Online application submission
• Phone or video screen with the hiring manager
• In-person or virtual interview with the hiring manager and team members
• Background check and reference verification
• Job offer and onboarding

Key Assessment Areas:

• Web design and development skills
• Understanding of accessibility guidelines
• Communication and interpersonal skills
• Problem-solving and analytical skills
• Adaptability and ability to work under pressure

Application Tips:

• Highlight relevant experience and skills in your resume, focusing on web design, development, and social media management
• Tailor your cover letter to demonstrate your understanding of the role and its requirements
• Prepare examples of your web design and social media work to showcase during the interview
• Research the Department of Defense and its Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO) to show your interest and preparation

ATS Keywords: Web design, graphic design, public relations, communications, marketing, social media, content creation, accessibility guidelines, media analysis, stakeholder engagement, strategic communications, metrics analysis, branding, reporting, task management, collaboration

ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role may involve assessments or tests to evaluate your web design and development skills, as well as your understanding of accessibility guidelines.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, XD)
• Figma or Sketch
• Content Management Systems (CMS) such as WordPress or Drupal
• Social media management platforms (e.g., Hootsuite, Buffer, Sprout Social)
• Website analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics)
• Accessibility testing tools (e.g., WAVE, aXe, Lighthouse)

ASSUMPTION: Familiarity with the tools and technologies listed above is preferred but not required. Training may be provided for the right candidate.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Integrity
• Excellence
• Collaboration
• Innovation
• Accountability

Work Style:

• Adaptable and responsive to changing priorities and deadlines
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment

Self-Assessment Questions:

• Do you have a strong commitment to producing high-quality work that meets or exceeds client expectations?
• Are you comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines and changing priorities?
• Do you have strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with team members and stakeholders?

ASSUMPTION: Vistra Communications values candidates who are adaptable, detail-oriented, and committed to producing high-quality work that meets or exceeds client expectations.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• Working on short or no notice taskers and adapting to emerging requirements
• Managing multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
• Operating in a high-pressure environment with tight deadlines
• Navigating the unique culture and protocols of the Department of Defense and military personnel

ASSUMPTION: The role may present challenges related to the fast-paced nature of the work and the need to adapt to changing priorities and deadlines. Successful candidates will be able to manage their time effectively and prioritize tasks accordingly.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• This role differs from other public relations or communications positions in its focus on web design and development, as well as its specific application to the Department of Defense and its Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO).
• Industry-specific context: The Department of Defense has unique communication requirements and protocols, which may differ from those in other industries.
• Career path comparison: This role may serve as a stepping stone to more senior positions within Vistra Communications or other communications agencies, as well as potential opportunities within the Department of Defense or other government organizations.

ASSUMPTION: This role offers unique opportunities to work on high-impact projects for the Department of Defense and gain experience in both web design and public relations.

📝 Sample Projects

• Developing a responsive and accessible website for the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO) that adheres to DoD Brand Guide, USWDS, and SAPRO brand guidelines
• Creating social media campaigns to raise awareness about sexual assault prevention and response initiatives within the Department of Defense
• Analyzing website and social media metrics to identify trends and make data-driven recommendations for improving content performance

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects are intended to illustrate the types of tasks and responsibilities associated with this role. Actual projects may vary based on the specific needs of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO) and the Department of Defense.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• Can you describe a typical day or week in this role?
• How does this role support the mission of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO) and the Department of Defense?
• What are the most important qualities and skills for success in this role?
• How does Vistra Communications support the professional development and growth of its employees?
• What is the team structure and dynamic for this role?

ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful and relevant questions during the interview process demonstrates your interest in the role and provides an opportunity to assess the fit between your career goals and the opportunities available at Vistra Communications.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through this link
• Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience and skills, focusing on web design, development, and social media management
• Write a cover letter that demonstrates your understanding of the role and its requirements, as well as your enthusiasm for the opportunity to work with the Department of Defense and Vistra Communications
• Prepare examples of your web design and social media work to showcase during the interview
• Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to confirm receipt and reiterate your interest in the position

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.