Subject Matter Expert (SME) – Communications

Job Summary

We are seeking a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in Communications to support the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Office of Suicide Prevention through a series of high-priority, mission-driven sprints focused on Veteran outreach and behavioral health awareness. In this role, you will provide expert strategic communications guidance to advance large-scale internal and external campaigns that directly impact Veteran mental health outcomes across an integrated federal healthcare enterprise.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned communications strategist who thrives in fast-paced, sprint-based environments and brings a deep understanding of federal healthcare audiences, media ecosystems, and stakeholder engagement to every engagement. You are a self-directed expert who can translate complex clinical and policy priorities into clear, compelling communications that resonate with Veterans, caregivers, and healthcare professionals alike.

Primary Responsibilities

• Provide subject matter expertise and expert advisory support for the design, development, and execution of large-scale strategic communications campaigns targeting Veterans, caregivers, and internal VA stakeholders in alignment with Office of Suicide Prevention priorities.
• Lead media analysis efforts across social media platforms, traditional media channels, and digital ecosystems to assess campaign reach, sentiment, audience engagement, and opportunities for improved Veteran outreach effectiveness.
• Develop and deliver strategic communications recommendations for both internal VA audiences (clinical staff, program offices, leadership) and external stakeholders (Veterans, community partners, advocacy organizations), ensuring messaging consistency and mission alignment.
• Support the planning and implementation of integrated Veteran outreach and communication campaigns, including the creation of campaign frameworks, message architectures, channel strategies, and evaluation plans tailored to suicide prevention objectives.
• Collaborate with VA program leads, federal partners, and interdisciplinary sprint teams to align communications strategies with clinical, policy, and operational goals, ensuring all materials adhere to VA branding, plain language, and Section 508 accessibility standards.
• Monitor emerging trends, policy developments, and best practices in federal healthcare communications and suicide prevention awareness to proactively inform sprint deliverables, stakeholder briefings, and campaign refinements throughout the period of performance.

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in large-scale communications within a healthcare setting, with demonstrated success leading or supporting complex, multi-channel campaigns.
• Master's Degree in Communications, Public Health, Public Affairs, Journalism, Marketing, or a closely related field is required.
• Prior experience working with federal agencies, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or other large integrated healthcare systems, with familiarity in navigating federal communications approval processes and stakeholder environments.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a VA PIV credential and pass a VA background investigation; existing VA network access or prior federal contractor clearance is a plus.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or authorized to work in the United States; this is a federal contract position and U.S. citizenship may be required to meet agency security requirements.
• Demonstrated expertise in social media analysis, digital media strategy, and implementing successful integrated communications campaigns with measurable outcomes in a healthcare or public health context.

About Aptive

Aptive partners with federal agencies to achieve their missions through improved performance, streamlined operations and enhanced service delivery. Based in Alexandria, Virginia, we support more than a dozen agencies including Veterans Affairs, Transportation, Defense, Homeland Security and the National Science Foundation. ​

We specialize in applying technology, creativity and human-centered services to optimize mission delivery and improve experiences for millions of people who count on government services every day. ​

Founded: 2012Employees: 300+ nationwide

EEO Statement

Aptive is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, parental status, veteran status, age, disability, or any other protected class.

Veterans, members of the Reserve and National Guard, and transitioning active-duty service members are highly encouraged to apply.