Specialist, Northern Forest Communications

IMPORTANT:  This Advertiser has requested that applicants MUST be National Residents / Valid Work Permit-holders.  Other applicants need not apply.

 

The Wilderness Society (TWS), a national non-profit membership organization dedicated to protecting wilderness and inspiring Americans to care for our wild places, is seeking a creative, energetic, flexible and skilled communications professional to manage regional communications for our Northern Forest program, and to develop initiatives to reach new audiences in innovative and strategic ways. The communications manager is a critical member of our Northeast regional team and will play an instrumental role in broadening public support needed to effectively advocate for our conservation goals primarily focusing on northern Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine.

QUALIFICATIONS

The ideal candidate has experience in the public and/or private sector with a proven track record and success in designing integrated and innovative communications initiatives, reaching new audiences, influencing decision makers and effecting change.  A strong background in advocacy, campaigns, communications and/or marketing work preferred. Ability to successfully utilize and integrate a variety of communications and marketing tools—electronic communications, public relations and media/new media outreach, paid and PSA advertising campaigns, social marketing campaigns—is highly desired. Excellent written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills a must. Ability to effectively communicate scientific information is helpful. Knowledge of public affairs, legislative campaigns, conservation, and public lands issues are preferred. Ability to set and achieve goals, look for innovative solutions, and a desire to make a difference essential. A Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, political science or a related field is the minimum required.

This position is fast-paced and offers an opportunity to increase and diversify experience and develop leadership skills while fueling creativity. Some travel would be required.

Working closely with Northern Forest program staff and the Senior Director of Regional Communications based in Seattle, this manager will actively manage communications efforts as outlined in the responsibilities below.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead and participate in development of regional and issue-based communications strategies, message research and development, and campaign planning;
• Work closely with Senior Director of Regional Communications and the Northern Forest team to develop and implement multifaceted public education campaigns tied directly to conservation efforts in our  priority landscapes—Heart of the Northern Forest;
• Work closely with local and regional partners and coalitions, often leading coalition communications and strategy efforts;
• Develop new, diverse messengers, utilizing outreach and training, to effectively deliver conservation messages;
• Work to strategically leverage TWS resources, especially our original science and analysis on both the national and regional level;
• Assist TWS staff with media outreach, and work to handle breaking news and develop future story concepts;
• Craft a variety of messages and outreach materials including op-eds, press releases, brochures, and briefing packages for print, web, and broadcast media, and utilize new media tools;
• Initiate and maintain excellent working relationships with key members of the media, including “new media” audiences;
• Coordinate with TWS staff and outside consultants/vendors in support of assigned programs;
•  Manage budgets for applicable program communications efforts.

This position is located near Burlington, Vermont.

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including health and dental insurance and a 401a Retirement plan.  At TWS, we advocate for and protect the rich variety of life, values and experiences that wild places provide; as an organization we are equally committed to honoring diversity in our staff and creating an inclusive work environment.

Please submit resume, cover letter, and at least two writing samples to: staffing@tws.org