CENTCOM PAO Regional Media Specialist

Description

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Public Affairs Office (CCPA) is seeking multilingual and regionally savvy Regional Media Specialists to support strategic communication efforts across the CENTCOM Area of Responsibility (AOR). This team plays a critical role in monitoring foreign media, analyzing regional sentiment, and advising leadership on culturally informed messaging strategies. Ideal candidates will possess deep regional expertise, advanced foreign language proficiency, and a strong understanding of international relations, media dynamics, and CENTCOM’s strategic communication objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Multilingual Media Monitoring & Analysis

· Monitor AOR-specific foreign news and digital media sources in assigned languages.

· Provide timely, contextual analysis of current events, public sentiment, and emerging trends.

· Deliver objective assessments of complex foreign affairs issues impacting CENTCOM equities.

Strategic Communication Support

· Collaborate with CCPA leadership, Strategic Communication Planners, Media Operations Specialists, and other personnel to integrate regional insights into public affairs strategies.

· Advise on communication approaches tailored to regional audiences and media environments.

· Identify key media influencers and recommend engagement strategies to CCPA leadership.

Translation & Interpretation

· Provide written and audio translations and interpretation services to support CCPA operations.

· Ensure linguistic accuracy and cultural sensitivity in all translated products.

Social Media Engagement

· Update CENTCOM’s foreign language social media platforms with regionally appropriate messaging.

· Recommend adjustments to timing, tone, and platform usage based on cultural and audience analysis.

Crisis & Surge Support

· Create and disseminate “Flash Reports” during significant crises or major news events.

· Support 24/7 surge operations as directed by CCPA leadership.

Deliverables

· Media Analysis Reports: Insightful assessments of foreign media coverage and influencer activity.

· Flash Reports: Immediate updates on critical events with CENTCOM equities.

· Translation Products: Accurate and culturally informed written/audio translations.

· Social Media Inputs: Strategic updates and recommendations for CENTCOM’s foreign language platforms.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

· TS/SCI clearance.

· 3 Interagency Language Roundtable (ILR) proficiency in Reading, Speaking, Listening, and Writing in one or more of the following languages:

· Arabic, Farsi, Urdu, Russian, Hebrew, Turkish

· 3 years of experience in media analysis, translation, or public affairs.

· Deep understanding of international relations, including trade, U.S. foreign policy, regional security, and terrorism.

· Strong writing, briefing, and interpersonal skills.

· Ability to work in high-tempo environments and support short-notice tasking.

Preferred Qualifications

· Prior experience supporting Combatant Command or DoD-level public affairs operations.

· Familiarity with CENTCOM’s mission and AOR.

· Experience with media monitoring platforms and social media analytics.

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.