Apply Here: https://americanrivers.bamboohr.com/jobs/view.php?id=104

Rivers are the source of all life, and protecting healthy, free-flowing rivers is essential in an era of climate change. American Rivers is hiring a Communications Director who is passionate about great storytelling and dedicated to advancing just, equitable solutions for river protection. The Communications Director will work closely with the Communications team and the Wild and Scenic Rivers and Public Lands conservation team to secure river protection policies nationally, with additional focus in Montana, Oregon and New Mexico. Reporting to the Vice President of Communications, the Director will help create and implement communications plans, write compelling copy, develop materials, collaborate with local partners, and build relationships with journalists.

Responsibilities:

Communications strategy and storytelling (45%)

Develop and implement communications strategies that promote the benefits of healthy, free-flowing rivers to people and nature in an era of climate change.

Develop and implement communications plans, in coordination with partners, to support Wild and Scenic River and Public Lands Program and river protection priorities nationally, with additional focus in Montana, Oregon and New Mexico.

Participate in planning meetings with local partners.

Collaborate with communications team on creative digital, multimedia and video projects.

Ensure organization’s core values of diversity, equity, inclusion and justice inform and are embodied in all communications and interactions.

Content development (40%)

Develop content strategies that highlight the leadership of Black, Indigenous, Latino/a/x communities and Tribal Nations in river protection.

Write and edit updates to American Rivers members and supporters.

Write and edit content for American Rivers newsletter, blog, emails and website.

Work with the digital team to create social media campaigns.

Manage contractors as needed.

Media relations (15%)

Track press coverage, develop relationships with journalists and maintain contact database.

Draft and distribute media materials including press releases, advisories, letters to the editor, and opinion pieces.

Coordinate rapid response communications on time-sensitive river protection issues.

Qualifications:

Demonstrated commitment to the values of diversity, equity, inclusion and justice.

Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, environmental studies, political science, or other relevant area of study.

Five years in communications, media relations or similar experience, preferably in conservation, social justice, advocacy, or political campaigns.

Exceptional verbal and written communications skills, including proofreading and copyediting.

Highly organized, resourceful, and proactive. Proven ability to anticipate needs and take initiative. Strong attention to detail. Ability to work on multiple projects and meet deadlines.

Team player with excellent interpersonal skills. Ability to work well with partners and colleagues in different offices and time zones.

Experience managing budgets and contracts.

Commitment to river conservation.

Graphic design experience is a plus.

About American Rivers

American Rivers believes a future of clean water and healthy rivers everywhere, for everyone is essential. Since 1973, we have protected wild rivers, restored damaged rivers and conserved clean water for people and nature. With headquarters in Washington, D.C. and 300,000 supporters, members and volunteers across the country, we are the most trusted and influential river conservation organization in the United States, delivering solutions for a better future. American Rivers centers the ongoing work of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice in all that we do. Rivers Connect Us is more than just our tagline. The beauty of rivers is that they connect all people and communities, and we seek to build and embody this diversity in our organization and throughout the conservation field. The life experiences, knowledge, innovation, and talent that everyone brings to our work provides perspectives, experiences, and competencies which are critical to our effectiveness in protecting wild rivers, restoring damaged rivers, and conserving clean water for people and nature.  

American Rivers is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce and complies with all applicable Federal and State laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action in its programs and activities. American Rivers does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, genetic information, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and veteran's status.

American Rivers is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to request a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Human Resources department at 240-431-3747 or bhenderson@americanrivers.org. Please note that one week’s advance notice is preferred