What are the responsibilities and job description for the CENTCOM PAO Media Operations Specialist position at Vistra Communications?
Description
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Public Affairs Office (CCPA) is seeking highly skilled and mission-focused Media Operations Specialists to join a dynamic team supporting 24/7 media operations. These specialists will rotate between the CENTCOM Joint Operations Center (JOC) and the Media Operations Desk, providing real-time media monitoring, strategic communication support, and direct interaction with senior defense leaders.
This role is ideal for professionals with strong writing, briefing, and analytical skills who thrive in high-tempo environments and are passionate about supporting national defense communications.
Key Responsibilities:
Rotational Joint Operations Center (JOC) Support
· Serve as watch standers in the CENTCOM JOC and Media Operations Desk on a rotational basis.
· Maintain 24/7 situational awareness of media coverage and operational events across the CENTCOM AOR.
· Support shift schedules and surge operations as directed by the CCPA Director and Program Manager.
Media Monitoring & Reporting
· Monitor global media and social platforms for CENTCOM-related coverage.
· Produce and distribute daily “CENTCOM News Clips” and “Flash Reports” on significant developments.
· Analyze trends and provide predictive assessments and recommendations to senior staff.
Media Engagement & Response
· Research, draft, and coordinate Responses to Queries (RTQs) and Talking Points (TPs).
· Distribute approved statements/releases to media outlets under U.S. Government supervision.
· Escort media during travel with CENTCOM leadership and assist with SME Prep.
Briefing & Communication Support
· Prepare briefing materials for senior leaders (e.g., CUB, O&I, TUA, SNR briefs).
· Present information confidently to defense and interagency personnel.
· Assist in public affairs briefings with Pentagon Press Corps, Dubai Media Hub, and others.
Crisis & Contingency Operations
· Support Crisis Action Teams (CAT), Focal Point Operations Center (FPOC), and COOP activities.
· Relocate to alternate sites or travel CONUS on short notice as required.
· Coordinate media embeds and contribute to the CENTCOM Commander’s Trip Book.
Requirements
Required Qualifications
· TS/SCI clearance.
· 3 years of experience in media operations, public affairs, or strategic communications.
· Strong writing, editing, and briefing skills.
· Ability to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
· Familiarity with military structure, culture, and terminology.
· Willingness to travel on short notice and support contingency operations.
Preferred Qualifications
· Prior experience supporting Combatant Command or DoD-level public affairs operations.
· Experience with media monitoring tools and social media analytics.
· Familiarity with CENTCOM’s mission and AOR.
About Vistra: Vistra Communications, doing business as Vistra and Vistra Federal Solutions, is a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) headquartered in Tampa, FL with an office in Springfield, VA providing professional support serviced to Defense, Federal, and Civilian Agencies. Approximately 25% of our “team member” employees work in the National Capital Region, providing communications, outreach, and organizational transformation services to our public sector customers. Vistra provides medical, dental, and vision benefits, life and disability insurance, employer matching 401(k) retirement plan, Paid Time Off, Parental and Bereavement Leave, and Professional Development, among other benefits.
US Citizenship Required: Due to the requirements of the federal contract that this position supports, U.S. citizenship is required. Citizenship will be confirmed via I-9/E-Verify at the start of employment.
