PURPOSE
The Creative Multimedia Specialist is a creative storyteller and technical expert responsible for producing high-quality photography, videography, and social media content that supports the Susquehanna Conference's mission, vision, and communications strategy. This role translates the life and ministries of our churches into engaging visual and digital stories that inspire, inform, and connect clergy, laity, congregations, and the wider public.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Photography & Videography
- Capture high-quality photos and videos at Conference events, worship services, ministry initiatives, and in-the-field assignments
- Edit images and footage for use across digital and print channels, ensuring a consistent visual brand identity
- Produce short-form and long-form videos, including interviews, promotional spots, highlight reels, and training content
- Manage and maintain photo and video archives with proper tagging and metadata for easy retrieval
- Ensure all photography/videography complies with privacy laws, consent protocols, and safeguarding policies
Social Media Management
- Plan, create, and schedule engaging content for the Conference's social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, etc.)
- Use analytics tools to monitor performance, identify trends, and optimize content for engagement and reach
- Develop platform-specific strategies, in collaboration with the Director of Communications, to expand the Conference's online presence and community engagement
- Respond to comments and messages in coordination with the Director of Communications and relevant ministries
Brand & Storytelling
- Ensure all multimedia content aligns with the Conference's brand guidelines and communications voice
- Collaborate with the Director of Communications and ministry leaders to develop visual storytelling campaigns
- Create content that highlights stories of discipleship, mission, and transformation across the Conference
- Serve as a creative partner for initiatives that require cross-platform content integration
Technical & Administrative
- Maintain multimedia equipment (cameras, lighting, microphones, drones, etc.) and recommend upgrades as needed
- Organize production schedules for major Conference events and campaigns
- Coordinate with external vendros and freelance creatives as needed
CORE COMPENTENCIES
- Committed to gracefully journeying alongside people from different walks of life and theological perspectives
- Committed to continuously growing in intercultural competence
- Build and maintain relationships rooted in honesty, integrity, and honor confidentiality
- Work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment to produce innovative solutions
- Attend to details, timelines, and due dates, and commitment to brand consistency
- Willingness and ability to support the mission, vision, and core values of The United Methodist Church and the Susquehanna Conference
QUALIFICATIONS
Required:
- Bachelor's degree in communications, media production, journalism, or related field - or equivalent experience
- Proficiency with DSLR/mirrorless photography and videography equipment
- Strong skills in Adobe Creative Cloud (Premier Pro, Photoshop, Lightroom, After Effects, Illustrator, etc.)
- Experience creating and managing content for social media platforms, including knowledge of algorithms and best practices
- Excellent visual composition and lighting skills
- Ability to see and communicate the human impact of ministries through visual media
- Proven track record in maintaining up-to-date skills in photography, videography, and digital communication trends
Preferred:
- Knowledge of faith-based and/or non-profit communications
- Experience with live streaming and multi-camera setups
- Familiarity with The United Methodist Church polity, culture, and mission
WORK ENVIRONMENT
- This role involves a blend of office-based tasks, on-location event coverage, and remote content editing
- Physical demands include carrying photography/video equipment, standing for extended periods, and occasional travel across the region
- This role requires travel throughout the Conference region and working occasional evenings/weekends