COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATE
FULL-TIME
Job Title: Communications Associate
Position Summary: The Communications Associate reports to the Director of Communications and Public Relations and is responsible for a variety of communications functions.
Typical Responsibilities:
§ Lead the Academy’s PR and communications efforts in the following sectors: scientific research and exploration; sustainability initiatives; and public programs, including lectures, workshops, and daily programs. These efforts include:
- Writing and distributing press releases, media alerts and fact sheets
- Planning and hosting press previews, tours and other media events
- Cultivating relationships with key reporters
- Developing tailored pitches
- Supervising video and photo shoots, which occasionally requires evening and weekend hours
- Maintaining and promoting the Academy’s Experts Database
§ Support the Academy’s PR and Communications efforts in other sectors, including exhibits and planetarium shows, aquarium initiatives, and education initiatives.
- Assist with press events and pitching efforts as needed.
- Supervise video and photo shoots, which occasionally requires evening and weekend hours.
§ Write stories and other copy for quarterly member publication
§ Write copy for email communications as needed
§ Write and edit copy as needed for the Academy website
§ Manage media monitoring and reporting efforts
§ Other duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications:
1-3 years of experience in similar role
Undergraduate degree in English, journalism, public relations, communications, or science
Experience with science communication strongly preferred
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
- Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills
- Excellent organizational skills
- Excellent grammar
- Ability to communicate complex scientific concepts in an engaging, accessible way
- Comfortable in a fast-paced and deadline-driven work environment
- Comfortable with basic word processing tools
- Ability to work independently and as a team member
- Flexible and creative
- Keen attention to detail
- Familiarity with content management systems a plus
LANGUAGE SKILLS:
Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals. Excellent written communication skills and mastery of grammatical rules are required. Ability to speak effectively before groups or individuals.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT: The physical demands and work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, sit, walk, and reach with hands and arms, and talk or hear. Must be able to lift 10 lbs. Must be able to perform repetitive motions 75% of the time.
The California Academy of Sciences is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes applications from individuals who will contribute to its diversity.
The California Academy of Sciences is a non-smoking facility. Smoking is also prohibited in Golden Gate Park.
Stephanie Stone
Director of Communications and Public Relations
California Academy of Sciences
55 Music Concourse Drive
San Francisco, CA 94118
(415) 379-5121
www.calacademy.org__,_._,___