| Overview 
 
 Space Strategic Communications SME Location: Arlington, VA Status: Full timeClearance Required: Active TS with SCI eligibility
 Client: Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Space Acquisition and Integration (SAF/SQ) Are you passionate about the future of space and national security? Do you thrive at the intersection of strategy, communication, and innovation?  Astrion is looking for a highly motivated and skilled Strategic Communications Subject Matter Expert (SME) to help shape and amplify the voice of the Department of the Air Force's space acquisition mission. In this unique and high-impact role, you'll support SAF/SQ, the office responsible for steering the Department of the Air Force's space systems acquisition strategy and integrating allied, civil, and commercial space capabilities into the broader United States Space Force (USSF) architecture. You'll work directly with senior leaders across DoD and the space enterprise to influence policy, drive engagement, and communicate priorities that shape the future of space as a warfighting domain. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS 
 Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (communications, policy, technical/scientific disciplines)2+ years of relevant experience in strategic communications, public affairs, policy, or space-related fieldsDeep understanding of the Department of the Air Force, USSF, and the national security space ecosystemExperience supporting HQ-level staff or executive communicationsStrong writing, editing, and messaging skills tailored to senior-level audiencesA proactive mindset and the ability to thrive in fast-paced, dynamic environmentsU.S. Citizenship and active TS clearance with SCI eligibility PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS  
 RESPONSIBILITIESPrior experience engaging with defense, civil, commercial, and allied space stakeholdersFamiliarity with space acquisition processes, strategies, or system developmentConfidence to handle sensitive or politically nuanced topics with clarity and professionalismStrong organization and event coordination skills 
 Crafting and delivering strategic messaging on space acquisition, policy, and congressional engagementDeveloping industry engagement packages and communications for high-stakes defense conferencesTranslating complex and sensitive space topics into impactful communications for internal and external audiencesResearching and analyzing the evolving space industrial base and aligning messaging with NSS goalsSupporting SAF/SQ leadership with polished, timely, and tailored products including speeches, briefings, executive summaries, news releases, social media content, and moreAssisting in special projects such as congressional testimony and senior-level communicationsBuilding and maintaining trusted relationships with industry, military, and government stakeholdersCoordinating logistics and support for events, engagements, and industry touchpointsPioneering new approaches for data-driven storytelling and long-term engagement tracking |