Science Communications & Media Specialist

This is a union position.

The Science Communications and Media Specialist is a dynamic and creative new role that will be responsible for advancing public engagement with science through compelling storytelling, multimedia content creation, and strategic communications.

This position is integral to the Science Center’s new “Rapid Science Engagement Initiative,” which was created to help educate our diverse audiences about timely scientific news impacting our world so that it is more accessible, relevant, and engaging.

Ideal candidates will have a passion for storytelling, good writing skills, excellent multimedia content creation abilities (including social media content and short-format video/podcasts), and familiarity and/or passion for science and science-related topics.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years work experience in communications or marketing roles. Ideal candidates will have at least a bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, professional writing, marketing, social media, multimedia, or related areas.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Essential functions include excellent storytelling and writing abilities, as well as strong proficiency in content creation and strategic multimedia development (including social media, short-format video, and podcasts). A passion for science and science-related content is a plus.

Physical Requirements: Work is primarily sedentary in nature; no special demands are required. Candidates will be considered qualified if they can perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Environment and Scheduling : Hybrid schedule with a minimum of three days working in the office each week and a maximum of two days working remotely each week. Standard hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday with occasional evening and weekend responsibilities, as necessary.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Science communication strategy – Develop and implement communication strategies that enhance public understanding of relevant and timely science topics that are impacting our region and our world.

Collaboration – Work closely with the Science Center’s Marketing team and “Rapid Science Engagement Initiative” team, along with the Science Communication Advisory Committee, to develop relevant science-related topics to highlight to our diverse audiences.

Content creation and writing – Develop and write clear, accurate, and engaging science content for various platforms, including blog posts, articles, websites, press releases, and educational materials.

Social media management – Strategize, create, and manage engaging social media content related to the “Rapid Science Engagement Initiative” across multiple platforms including Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, and YouTube.

Videography & multimedia production – Plan, film, and edit short-form video content to showcase scientific topics, experts, and events. Collaborate with subject matter experts (including scientists and educators) to produce multimedia content that highlights their work and engages the public.

Collaboration and outreach – Collaborate with internal teams, scientists, educators, and other experts to ensure accuracy and effectiveness in communication efforts.

Public engagement – Identify opportunities for public engagement and outreach, including building out both on-site and virtual events, that will yield interesting videos, podcasts, blog posts, and written materials that make the topics appealing to broad audiences.

Other duties as assigned.