The European Union Delegation to the United States of America, Washington DC is looking for:

Public Diplomacy Officer (Local Agent Group II) to the Press and Public Diplomacy Section

We are

The European Union (EU) is an economic and political partnership between 27 European countries. It plays an important role in international affairs through diplomacy, trade, development aid and working with global organizations. Abroad, the EU is represented through more than 140 diplomatic representations, known also as EU Delegations, which have a similar function to those of an embassy.

The EU Delegation to the United States of America in Washington, DC works in close coordination with the Embassies and Consulates of the 27 EU Member States. We are a fully-fledged diplomatic mission and represent the European Union in dealings with the U.S. government in areas that are part of the EU’s remit.

We offer

We offer the post of Public Diplomacy Officer (LA Group II) in the Press and Public Diplomacy Section. The team consists of thirteen people and there are occasional atypical working hours. Under this job function, the successful candidate will be responsible to the Head of the Press and Public Diplomacy Section for the following tasks and duties:

• Propose, design and coordinate strategic communication campaigns, in close coordination with the different sections in the Delegation;
• Propose, develop, promote and manage various public diplomacy events with external partners and EU Member State embassies. These events range from large scale public events such as EU Open House, to smaller events like high-level dinners and receptions, and regularly involve working with an external contractor;
• Draft speeches and background briefings on issues linked to the public diplomacy initiatives advanced by the section;
• Manage procurement contracts and budgets pertaining to relevant programs and events;
• Build partnerships with relevant US stakeholders in the field of public diplomacy;
• Liaise with EU Member States on the implementation of public diplomacy activities.

We offer a competitive position in an international environment working in close coordination with colleagues across the EU Delegation. The salary range is dependent on relevant and verified employment experience, starting from $87K (4 years’ experience), $90K (6 years’ experience), $92K (8 years’ experience) etc.

There is a competitive benefits package including personal leave days and public holidays, flexible working hours, health and dental insurance and a retirement savings plan.

The anticipated start date is 1 January 2025.

We look for

• Minimum of High School/Secondary School education required, a Bachelor’s degree in communication, public diplomacy, public relations or other field related to communication and public affairs is preferred;
• Proven knowledge of EU affairs is an advantage;
• Minimum of 4 years' experience in communication, public relations or public diplomacy;
• Excellent organizational skills and event management experience;
• Strong sense of initiative and creativity is an advantage;
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize and flexibility with regard to working hours;
• Ability to work calmly under pressure and use own judgment and initiative; sense of responsibility and motivation;
• Excellent knowledge of IT tools (MS Office, web based apps, online communication platforms like Webex and Zoom); knowledge of CRM software, digital and social media is a clear advantage;
• Excellent spoken and written command of the English language; knowledge of other European languages is an advantage;
• Experience of working in an EU or international organization, a diplomatic mission, a multicultural environment or familiarity with the European Union is an asset.

How to apply

It is important to note that the Delegation of the European Union to the United States of America does not sponsor visas for Local Agents. Applicants must have an existing and valid US work authorization that does not require sponsorship by the Delegation.

Please submit your application including a cover letter and resume via the Indeed.com website (Reference WASDEL 10/24) no later than noon on 8 November 2024 (EST). Only applications received via Indeed.com will be considered.

The resume must also include the names and contact details of at least two referees who can attest to your professional and personal attributes in the event you are shortlisted for the post. References will only be taken up for those who are shortlisted.

The process

After the deadline for applications, the applications will be reviewed by a Selection Panel set up for this purpose. The Selection Panel will prepare a short-list of candidates who are considered the most suitable for the post based on a preliminary assessment of the information provided in the cover letter and resume. The short-listed candidates will be invited to an assessment phase, which will include an interview and practical test. During this phase, the Selection Panel will assess the suitability of the candidates for the post. Those candidates who have not been short-listed will not be contacted individually; however, the Delegation will use the same means of publication as for this job advertisement to inform the remaining candidates once the recruitment procedure has been completed and that a candidate has (or has not) been recruited.

The Delegation will not supply additional information or discuss the selection procedure. During the selection process, please do not contact the members of the Selection Panel, but address your questions and comments to the Delegation’s Administration.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $87,000.00 - $92,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Vision insurance

Schedule: Monday to Friday

Application Question(s):

• You must have an existing US work authorization (e.g. US Citizen, Permanent Resident, EAD) that does not now or will not require EU Delegation sponsorship in the future.
• Please describe in 1-2 sentences: How is your previous experience relevant to this role? Why are you a good fit for this job?

Education: High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience: Communication, public relations or public diplomacy: 4 years (Required)

Work Location: In person