Senior External Communications Specialist – Public Relations and Government Relations
Company: General Dynamics IT Location: Falls Church, VA Employment Type: Full Time Date Posted: 05/11/2026 Job Categories:
Engineering, Information Technology
Job Description
Senior External Communications Specialist – Public Relations and Government Relations
General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT) has an incredible story to tell. Were 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 nations most pivotal operations.
Our Corporate Marketing and External Communications organization plays a vital role in showcasing GDITs capabilities and achievements while fostering trust and engagement among stakeholders. Its responsible for the development and execution of strategic communication initiatives that amplify GDITs 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 teams 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 YOULL NEED TO SUCCEED:
Bring your initiative and drive for innovation to GDIT. The Senior External Communications Specialist must have:
Bachelors 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 fastpaced 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 youll find endless opportunities to grow alongside colleagues who share your sense of ownership and pride in the meaningful work we do.