Communications Associate

Job Description

The Scholars Strategy Network (SSN) seeks a Communications Associate to help university-based scholars become influential players in public policy debates. As a generalist, the Associate will help inject research and scholarly perspectives into public debates, build relationships with journalists and media outlets, edit and pitch opinion pieces written by academics, produce the No Jargon podcast, and contribute to the organization’s overall communications strategy. This is designed as an entry-level position for a person who is excited to create outreach opportunities for a large and growing network of over 1,800 members across the US. SSN also supports the work of 40 state- based chapters led by volunteer members. Some travel is expected.

The Communications Associate is a full-time position with an annual salary between $56,000 to $64,000 commensurate with qualifications and experience. SSN’s highly competitive benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance; 403b retirement plan with employer match, generous paid time off and opportunities for professional development. This is a fully remote position with the option to work in person in SSN’s Boston office. Massachusetts residents are preferred but consideration will be given to qualified candidates within the states. This position reports to SSN’s Director of Communications and is part of the SSN employee union.

As a large organization with a relatively small staff, SSN has a lean, productive Communications team that supports and creates opportunities for members. Among other tasks the Communications Associate will:

Provide Communications Support to SSN Members

• Edit and pitch opinion pieces written by scholars and advise on messaging, placement, and timing for their pieces.
• Identify media opportunities to insert research into public conversations, highlight available SSN members for interviews, and build SSN’s brand as a leading source of expert voices.
• Facilitate virtual and in-person media workshops for SSN members and chapters
• Provide communications support and advice to SSN’s chapters and issue area specific cohorts.

Build Relationships with Journalist

• Identify and communicate directly with journalists, editors, and other members of the media to identify opportunities for scholars and build relationships for SSN as an organization.
• Respond to media requests for connections to scholars and research.

Direct SSN’s No Jargon Podcast

• Oversee the content, production, growth, and creative direction of SSN’s signature podcast, No Jargon, with episodes on a monthly schedule
• Book, prepare, record, and edit audio interviews, manage all software and hardware needs, and work with SSN’s remote sound engineer to finalize and publish new episodes.

The successful candidate will be a self-starter with a deep interest in making research matter and improving public policy. The ideal candidate would be:

• An individual with 1-3 years of experience in communications, journalism, public relations, or similar positions.
• An excellent writer and editor, capable of translating complex concepts into accessible language through a variety of communications materials and platforms.
• Someone with experience working with researchers and/or academics
• An able facilitator who is excited to teach others new skills and information.
• Someone with experience writing, editing, and pitching OpEds and Letters to the Editor.
• An individual with a basic understanding of podcasts and audio editing.
• Familiar with and interested in US domestic policy and politics
• Able and eager to learn new skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Google Docs, Dropbox, Salesforce, virtual meeting channels like Zoom, and content databases.
• Committed to SSN’s mission and fully understand how to make use of SSN’s structure as a voluntary, federated network of member researchers.

SSN is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, class, color, disability, ethnicity, faith, gender, national origin, race, sexual orientation, or gender identity. People of color, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals, and women are strongly encouraged to apply. Candidates considering a career transition or whose skills and experience fulfill some, but not all of the qualifications above are encouraged to apply.

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