RATIONALE

UrbanKind Institute (UKI) has become one of the most in-demand social science and community-engagement consulting firms in the Pittsburgh region. Our partners and clients recognize the value of our critical, people-centered racial justice perspective and the effectiveness of our community interaction and engagement strategies. In all our work, we work to eliminate barriers to families thriving in over-burdened and under-resourced communities.

We accomplish this work through a variety of projects and initiatives, including two networks that we convene, the Black Environmental Collective (“the Collective”) and Equitable and Just Greater Pittsburgh (“EJGP”). This growth and expansion require us to add an experienced Communications Coordinator that supports the ever-changing needs of a growing organization.

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

The Communications Coordinator’s primary responsibilities will be writing, editing, branding, and public media relations for UKI. The coordinator will oversee publishing of marketing materials, adhering to brand guidelines, and enhancing the outward facing image of the organization, ongoing projects, and initiatives.

Duties include implementation of both internal and external communication strategies, managing social media platforms, email, company websites, and media relations. The ideal candidate has successful experience communicating with audiences of diverse backgrounds and expresses a sincere passion for advancing justice, equity, and inclusion. This position is remote with the requirement to attend in-person meetings within the Greater Pittsburgh region throughout the year.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

External Communications

Promote UrbanKind’s mission, values, and organizational policies to all stakeholders

Develop 2-year communication strategy for organization related projects and initiatives

Create organizational press kit (update current branding guide)

Maintain websites and social media accounts

Source and write content for press releases, newsletters, social media posts, websites, marketing outreach campaigns, and other external communications, as needed

Attend meetings and events to capture highlights and moments through photos, quotes, etc.

Establish partnerships with other communication coordinators/managers, media outlets, journalists, and relevant sources

Provide marketing support for outreach and engagement efforts

Collect, manage, and communicate organizational, network, and staff media mentions

Contribute to the development of low-tech communication options for community outreach efforts

Internal Communications

Create or update project/initiative press kit and/or branding guide(s)

Develop materials to educate staff on inclusive communication best-practices

Assist team members with improving inclusive communication skills

Perform additional communications research and monitor the progress/efficacy of ongoing communications strategies

Identify communication needs and to address those needs

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Reasonable accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities to perform essential duties

Qualifications

Residents of Greater Pittsburgh region strongly preferred

5+ years demonstrated results in communications, marketing, and/or project management

Effective verbal, public speaking, presentation, listening and written communication skills

Proficient in MS 365 Office, g-suite, social media platforms, website management tools, and other communications software

Strong analytical, critical thinking, and decision-making abilities

Experience working with individuals of diverse backgrounds

Strong work ethic with the confidence to work independently

Ability to work successfully on multiple projects simultaneously

Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively as a team member

Ability to perform work with a high level of attention to detail and accuracy

Strong organizational and planning skills

Ability to respectfully and effectively engage with staff and external partners, including community leaders and residents

Personal Attributes

The incumbent must also demonstrate the following personal attributes:

Be honest, respectful, and trustworthy

Possess cultural awareness and sensitivity

Demonstrate sound work ethics

Enthusiastic to learn new skills and to grow as a professional

Maintain a professional demeanor

WORKING CONDITIONS

Physical Demands

The Communications Coordinator may deliver programs in a variety of locations and may have to transport, lift, and carry equipment and supplies. The work may require long hours sitting and using office equipment and computers, which can cause muscle strain, and may be involved in several high-energy activities. Position requires travel within the region for meetings, training, and special events. Occasional out-of-state travel may be necessary.

Environmental Conditions

UrbanKind Institute is currently operating remotely for our day-to-day function, with occasional in-person meetings and events. It is expected that the person in this position will attend several meetings in the Greater Pittsburgh region throughout the year.

Mental Demands

UrbanKind Institute is committed to the mental and emotional wellbeing of our staff. We strive to prevent burn-out through flexible work schedules and regularly scheduled office days off. We also intentionally support our staff with their personal needs as they arise.

We are committed to providing individuals with criminal records, including formerly incarcerated individuals, a fair chance at employment for which they are otherwise qualified.

Flexible work from home options available.