Communications Assistant

The Marine Environmental Research Institute (MERI) is seeking a highly organized, experienced individual with excellent writing, technical and graphics skills to fill the position of Communications Assistant at the MERI Center for Marine Studies in Blue Hill, Maine.

MERI is a nonprofit organization that conducts scientific research and provides education on the impacts of pollution on marine life. This position provides an exciting and challenging opportunity to fulfill a vital role in the growth and development of the organization.

Position Overview:

The successful candidate will have a background in environmental policy, science translation, journalism and/or environmental advocacy; excellent writing, verbal, and visual skills; and a proficiency with website management, computer graphics, social media, digital imagery and software. The individual must be highly organized and able to work well under pressure, meet deadlines and work collaboratively as part of a team.

Responsibilities:

Perform basic duties related to external and internal communications and associated technology, particularly the MERI website, including writing and editing website content and press releases; developing PowerPoints and other graphic presentations; and providing other advancement, marketing and publicity materials. Work closely with MERI senior staff and marketing firm to enhance, oversee and maintain the MERI website, social media, other electronic communications, and the image library. Provide technical, graphics and communications support for all MERI departments.

• With oversight from senior staff, communications consultants and the marketing firm, maintain the MERI website, including writing and editing text, selecting appropriate graphics and visual content, designing layout, and serving as webmaster for the organization.
• Produce and oversee MERI external electronic communications, including maintenance of email lists, sending email blasts and electronic newsletters, administering MERI's Facebook page, and developing other social media outreach for the organization.
• Provide graphics and technical support for all MERI departments for electronic and printed materials, including emails, flyers, advertisements and brochures; produce PowerPoint presentations.
• Organize, enhance and manage the MERI Image Library, working closely with staff to ensure up-to-date images are acquired, consistently labeled and made accessible to all users.
• Serve as primary staff photographer and/or videographer for MERI programs and events, and attend other events as MERI representative on occasion.
• Working with senior staff/marketing firm, write and/or edit press releases, fact sheets, flyers and other communications materials.
• Operate and maintain the MERI audiovisual system for lectures, conferences and other programs, working with the A/V consultant to ensure optimal performance and training other staff on using the system.
• Working with MERI's Systems Consultant, troubleshoot software, hardware and communications issues for the MERI staff and provide periodic training for the staff on specific applications.
• Assist with updating and maintaining MERI's public relations and fundraising databases, including setting up and producing reports and lists for mailings.
• Articulate and promote the MERI mission to the public.
• Pitch in on projects and perform other duties as assigned by the Director or senior staff.
• As the organization evolves, the job responsibilities may change or be altered to meet MERI's needs. This would be done in association with the Director.

Reports to: Associate Director and Director (may be modified when other senior positions are filled).

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree required. A background in journalism, advocacy, toxics policy, photo-journalism, science journalism, web design, marketing, public relations, development or a related field desirable.
• Knowledge of how the media works and what is newsworthy; familiarity with national, regional and state print and electronic media.
• Ability to successfully translate complex science issues for journalists and the public.
• Knowledge of environmental, ocean and/or toxics issues preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal, written and verbal communications skills.
• Superior proficiency with computer graphics software, digital photography, website design and management, and social media.
• Must be detail-oriented, able to meet deadlines, work collaboratively as part of a team, and adapt to changing environment.
• Strong interest in the marine environment and a commitment to promoting the mission of MERI.

Time Requirements: Full-time, at least 40 hours per week (must be able to participate in occasional evening and weekend events)

Compensation: Competitive, DOE

To Apply:

To apply for this position, please submit by email a letter of application with updated resume, writing samples, and 3 references with the subject line "MERI Communications Assistant". Position open until filled. Incomplete applications will not be considered.