Communications Associate

Audubon; Audubon (IA); Hybrid; USD 35,900 - 39,950; Full time

Job summary

Audubon is looking for a Communications Associate to enhance engagement efforts in the Upper Mississippi River region. In this hybrid role, you will work closely with leadership to create communication materials, manage social media, and develop news content.

The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor's degree, strong written communication skills, and experience in project management. The role offers competitive compensation between $26.06 and $29.00 per hour and involves collaboration on conservation initiatives.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and 0-2 years of experience.
• Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and social media platforms.

Responsibilities

• Implement communications tactics to broaden visibility.
• Develop communication resources for the science and conservation team.
• Produce newsletters, member emails, and promotional materials.

Skills

Written communication skills

Project management skills

Analytical skills

Detail-oriented

Social media proficiency

Graphic design

Education

Bachelor’s degree in public relations, marketing, communications, journalism or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Photoshop

Canva

EveryAction

Meltwater

Job description

Position Summary

The Communications Associate will be responsible for contributing to the general communications and engagement efforts of Audubon’s Upper Mississippi River region (Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri) helping to build awareness of our programs, conservation priorities, policy efforts, and community engagement across the three states. Working closely with the Upper Mississippi River’s leadership team, the position will support editorial, day‑to‑day communications and the creation of communications materials. The position will help develop content for communication channels, including the Upper Mississippi River website and social media sites and the ideal candidate will have experience in digital communication storytelling.

Work Arrangement

This position is classified as hybrid in accordance with Audubon’s “Where We Work” Policy. Hybrid employees are expected to work in an Audubon office every Monday and Tuesday and an additional two days each month of the employee’s choosing. Candidates should be located within commuting distance of one of Audubon’s offices, which include locations in Roseville, MN.

Funding Status

This role is funding contingent and is subject to successful renewed funding.

Compensation

$26.06 - $29.00 / hour

Essential Functions

• Work with the Vice President and Executive Director, and other members of the Upper Mississippi River leadership team to implement communications tactics that will broaden Audubon’s visibility, reach, and deepen the impact of our work.


• Assist the science and conservation team with the development of communication resources (best practices manuals, conservation decision support tools, brochures, etc.).


• Assist in securing local earned media for Upper Mississippi River initiatives and other regional conservation priorities.


• Assist in developing and updating media lists, media pitches, holding statements and talking points.


• Assist in the development of content calendars for communications and social media.


• Produce newsletters, member emails, flyers, brochures, webinars, and other promotional materials.


• Track daily and monthly metrics and analytics for media coverage and digital communications and prepare reports for key stakeholders.


• Assist in the development of content on website and blog; working with staff to design, create, edit, and regularly update content.


• Develop, and publish, content for Upper Mississippi River’s social on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and other emerging channels.


• Manage photo and video assets.


• Assist with development of advocacy driven communications and events.


• Use Upper Mississippi River’s Content Management System to make website updates and publish press releases, statements, and other online materials.


• Support a culture of philanthropy, including public funding efforts.


• Collaborate with colleagues across the Americas including through joint planning and execution of shared priorities.


• Maintain and foster culture of safety.


• Other job‑related duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in public relations, marketing, communications, journalism or related field and 0‑2 years of professional experience. An equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered.


• Strong analytical and project management skills; must possess excellent judgment and be comfortable working independently in a fast‑paced environment.


• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.


• Exceptional attention to detail and strong editing skills.


• A proactive, optimistic approach to work, one with superior interpersonal skills and demonstrated experience working with a wide variety of external audiences.


• Proficient in Microsoft Office; experience with Photoshop and Canva a plus.


• Experience with EveryAction, and The Email Machine is helpful.


• Experience using media databases such as Meltwater strongly preferred.


• Proficiency with social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.


• Strong demonstrated interest in wildlife conservation and the mission of the National Audubon Society.


• A self‑starter with a proactive approach to assignments, one with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team, solve problems with limited supervision, and prioritize tasks.


• Interest in elevating voices, ideas, needs, and concerns of communities across the Western Hemisphere a plus.


• Demonstrated ability to create, manage and document processes and procedures.


• Experience creating communication materials in Spanish a plus.


• Experience with graphic design a plus.


• A flexible approach to work, with a willingness and ability to travel about five times a year around the Upper Mississippi River region, as needed, and participate in programs occurring after typical business hours.


• Commitment to Audubon’s organizational values of care, collaboration, change, integrity, impact, and innovation.


• Experience fostering inclusive and collaborative work environments is valued.


• Able to travel up to 15% of the time, including occasional overnight and/or weekend meetings or travel.

Union Representation

This position is represented by the Communications Workers of America (CWA).

National Audubon Society Competencies

• Building Relationships: Establish and nurture meaningful connections and trust with others while fostering an environment of inclusivity and respect.


• Problem Solving: Find effective solutions to challenges and support decision-making by drawing on critical thinking, creativity, and systematic approaches.


• Accountability: Be reliable and trustworthy in fulfilling commitments while recognizing inequities that may impact the ability of others to fulfill responsibilities effectively.


• Supporting Change: Adapt to changes and modify behavior in response to new information or unexpected obstacles while considering the diverse needs of others.


• Critical Thinking: Take an active approach to analyzing, evaluating, and interpreting information or situations objectively and logically to make informed decisions or judgments.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic outlined by federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates.