Media Operations Analyst (CENTCOM Public Affairs Directorate) at Hoplite Group – Tampa, Florida

Opportunity: Media Operations Analyst

Bottom Line Up Front: Hoplite Group is seeking Media Operations Analysts to support contracted services for the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Public Affairs Directorate (CCPA). The Media Operations Analyst Team consists of eight (8)analysts who provide 24/7 strategic media operations support to the CENTCOM Public Affairs Directorate (CCPA). These analystsare divided into two primary roles: Five (5) analysts serve as watch standers in the CENTCOM Joint Operations Center (JOC), ensuring round-the-clock coverage. Three (3) analysts staff the Media Operations Desk, focusing on media engagement, query responses, and public affairs coordination.

Location: The primary place of performance is at HQ CENTCOM, MacDill AFB. Other anticipated work may include TBD locations within the Continental United States (CONUS) or at locations within the CENTCOM Area of Responsibility.

Level of Effort: Full-time

Availability: Anticipate Spring-Summer 2026 start date.

Objective: Execute the following job responsibilities in support of the CENTCOM Public Affairs Directorate:

• Media Engagement & Content Creation
  • Draft, research, and coordinate responses to media inquiries, ensuring accuracy and alignment with CENTCOM messaging.
  • Develop press releases, talking points, and response-to-query (RTQ) products to support CENTCOM’s strategic communication efforts.
  • Prepare senior leaders for media engagements by providing briefing materials, messaging guidance, and interview preparation support.
  • Assist in drafting official CENTCOM statements, ensuring clarity, precision, and adherence to public affairs guidance.
• Media Monitoring & Crisis Communications
  • Conduct real-time monitoring and analysis of global media coverage related to CENTCOM operations.
  • Identify, track, and assess breaking news with potential impacts on CENTCOM, informing CCPA leadership immediately.
  • Provide rapid-response media analysis, drafting
  • recommended talking points and response strategies to counter misinformation or clarify reporting.
  • Offer data-driven insights to inform leadership decision-making on media trends and potential public affairs challenges.
• Public Affairs Support in Contingencies
  • Provide crisis communication support during contingency operations, ensuring rapid, coordinated, and effective messaging.
  • Develop and disseminate Flash Reports, RTQs, and other urgent communication materials as events unfold.
  • Assist Crisis Action Teams (CAT) in coordinating public affairs responses during high-tempo operations.
  • Support 24/7 surge operations as needed, ensuring CENTCOM maintains a responsive and authoritative media presence.
• Media Training & Coordination
  • Conduct media training for CENTCOM senior leaders, equipping them with effective communication strategies for press engagements.
  • Facilitate media embeds with key leadership events, ensuring proper coordination with military, government, and press stakeholders.
  • Liaise with U.S. Embassies, DoD agencies, and partner nations to ensure proper logistics and coordination for media interactions.
  • Support high-visibility events and press engagements, ensuring CENTCOM’s messaging is clear, consistent, and aligned with U.S. strategic objectives.
• Travel & Operational Support
  • Analysts may be required to travel to the National Capital Region (NCR), the CENTCOM Area of Responsibility (AOR), and other locations as necessary.
  • Provide on-site public affairs support for continuity of operations (COOP) requirements and other mission-
  • essential activities.
  • Support CENTCOM senior leadership engagements across multiple regions, ensuring media operations align with broader operational goals.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Security Requirements: Must have a minimum TS/SCI clearance prior to Contract award. Interim clearances will not be considered acceptable.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in public affairs, public relations, or corporate communications.
• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or a related field.
• Advanced degree (Master’s) is preferred for at least one of the analysts on the team
• Proficiency in crafting clear, concise, and effective media communication products (press releases, talking points, etc.).
• Deep understanding of media operations, crisis communication strategies, and the ability to forge and maintain relationships with the Pentagon Press Corps and regional/international media.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage complex situations, and interact confidently with senior military and civilian leadership.
• Familiarity with Associated Press (AP) Style, Microsoft Office Suite, and SharePoint is essential.
• Exceptional briefing, writing, and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of global communication strategies, social media platforms, and media relations.
• Previous experience with military public affairs is preferred but not required.