Communications Specialist

Description

Title: Communications Specialist

Supervisor: Communications Manager

Location: Warrenton, VA
(*PEC staff are currently working from home due to Covid–19)

Job Classification: Full–Time – Non–exempt

Introduction
The Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC) is a 501(c) (3) non–profit organization that
has proudly promoted and protected the natural resources, rural economy, history and
beauty of the Virginia Piedmont since 1972. PEC works with residents to weigh in on
important land use and policy decisions, conserve land, protect air and water quality,
celebrate historic resources, build smart transportation networks, promote sustainable
energy choices, restore wildlife habitat and improve people’s access to nature.

Description
The Piedmont Environmental Council (PEC) is seeking to hire a communications
specialist to promote PEC’s mission and programs through a mix of online and offline
means. The communications specialist will work to advance the following goals:
• Building a network of reliable activists, donors and members;
• Influencing decision–makers to reach better outcomes;
• Increasing positive awareness of PEC and building support for PEC programs;
• Changing behavior and fostering an ethic of good stewardship.

Areas of Responsibility
The communications specialist will report to PEC’s communications manager and be
responsible for a mix of the functions outlined below:
• Write, edit and develop engaging content for print and online.
• Promote PEC content through email, social media and in–person
events/networking.
• Collaborate with PEC staff to develop and launch relevant messaging and
advocacy campaigns, as well as fundraising appeals.
• Take photos of PEC geographies, events, projects, field work, supporters, etc.
• Design and produce marketing/promotional materials.
• Respond to public questions and information requests via email, phone and
social media.
• Assist staff with the development of presentations for meetings and public
outreach events.
• Assist with PEC events and field projects as necessary.

Qualifications
Outstanding candidates will share a commitment to PEC’s mission and will bring the
following experience and attributes:
• Bachelor’s degree and at least two years related work experience or equivalent;
• Demonstrated communications and storytelling skills, both written and oral,
including the ability to write, edit and proof written materials;
• Proficiency with Adobe design products like Photoshop and InDesign;
• Experience with photography/videography a plus;
• Demonstrated knowledge of basic HTML is a plus;
• Experience working with website content management systems like WordPress;
• Familiarity with CRM databases such as Raiser’s Edge, EveryAction,
SalesForce, etc;
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and G Suite (Google Apps);
• Experience using social media as an outreach tool;
• Ability to organize, coordinate and manage diverse activities and deadlines;
• Experience in campaigning, organizing or advocacy preferred;
• Ability to work some weekends and evenings;
• Dedication to PEC’s mission of smart growth, conservation, and restoration;
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required, as this position requires
travel to locations and events throughout PEC’s 9–county region;
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.

Compensation
Salary range: $40,000–$50,000 depending on qualifications and experience.

Benefits
PEC offers an outstanding benefits package including health, dental, vision, short and
long term disability and term life insurance, a 403 (b) employee pension plan, HSA and
FSA options and some employer–paid additional supplemental insurance benefits
including accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity. Upon employment, you will be
entitled to paid holidays and will begin accruing personal leave as designated in the
PEC Employee Handbook. PEC also offers employees 8 hrs of leave per year to
perform volunteer work.

Application Process
Interested applicants should email a cover letter and resume to apply@pecva.org. The
initial deadline for receipt of applications is April 15, 2021. However, applications will be
accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

The Piedmont Environmental Council is an equal opportunity employer and encourages diverse applicants.

Job Duties

Areas of Responsibility
The communications specialist will report to PEC’s communications manager and be
responsible for a mix of the functions outlined below:
• Write, edit and develop engaging content for print and online.
• Promote PEC content through email, social media and in–person
events/networking.
• Collaborate with PEC staff to develop and launch relevant messaging and
advocacy campaigns, as well as fundraising appeals.
• Take photos of PEC geographies, events, projects, field work, supporters, etc.
• Design and produce marketing/promotional materials.
• Respond to public questions and information requests via email, phone and
social media.
• Assist staff with the development of presentations for meetings and public
outreach events.
• Assist with PEC events and field projects as necessary.

Skills Required

Qualifications
Outstanding candidates will share a commitment to PEC’s mission and will bring the
following experience and attributes:
• Bachelor’s degree and at least two years related work experience or equivalent;
• Demonstrated communications and storytelling skills, both written and oral,
including the ability to write, edit and proof written materials;
• Proficiency with Adobe design products like Photoshop and InDesign;
• Experience with photography/videography a plus;
• Demonstrated knowledge of basic HTML is a plus;
• Experience working with website content management systems like WordPress;
• Familiarity with CRM databases such as Raiser’s Edge, EveryAction,
SalesForce, etc;
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and G Suite (Google Apps);
• Experience using social media as an outreach tool;
• Ability to organize, coordinate and manage diverse activities and deadlines;
• Experience in campaigning, organizing or advocacy preferred;
• Ability to work some weekends and evenings;
• Dedication to PEC’s mission of smart growth, conservation, and restoration;
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required, as this position requires
travel to locations and events throughout PEC’s 9–county region;
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.

Work Schedule

Generally, a 40 hour work week with fluctuations depending on events.