Job Type: Full-time, on-site,
Location: Logan, UT
Salary: Minimum $52,100/yr
Position Overview:
The Utah Forest Restoration Institute (UFRI) in the Department of Wildland Resources (WILD) at Utah State University (USU) is seeking a dynamic full-time (1.0 FTE) Communications Officer (Marketer II) to lead UFRI's strategic communications and public engagement initiatives. The Communications Officer--working individually and as part of a productive team--will provide strategic communication leadership; create and disseminate content for multiple and diverse audiences utilizing advanced communications tools and platforms; and engage across the full spectrum of Utah media and news organizations to share the institute's work and impact across the state.
Responsibilities:
Strategic Communication Leadership - Develop and implement a comprehensive communication strategy that aligns with UFRI vision, mission, and objectives; supports our objective to establish the institute as a leader in management-focused forest restoration; and integrates cross-program narratives on science-based solutions. - Design and execute a cohesive visual identity across all UFRI products and services. - Conduct stakeholder and audience mapping to inform communication approaches. - Proactively manage communication vis-a-vis perceived risks and opportunities.
Content Creation - Translate complex scientific research and adaptive management goals, approaches, and results into accessible and engaging content for diverse audiences. - Effectively, productively, and respectfully collaborate with researchers, managers, and other subject matter experts to educate policy and decision makers, the media, and the public. - Utilize advanced communication tools and platforms, including data visualization and infographics.
Media Engagement - Lead UFRI media engagement efforts by creating media content and press materials and responding to media inquiries; and by proactively developing strategic relationships that promote science-based journalism and inform public opinion and policy.
Team Work and Training - Plan, develop, and implement media training for UFRI staff.
Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in communication, journalism, public relations, environmental science, or other related field
Minimum of two (2) years experience in communication with focus on education, research, natural resource management, environmental policy, or environmental advocacy
Preferred Qualifications:
Master’s degree in a science or natural resource field
Experience in data visualization, scientific communication, and/or technical writing
Familiarity with forest management practices and/or ecological research/monitoring methodologies
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Exceptional written and oral communication skills
Exceptional attention to detail, including advanced editing skills
Intuitive ability to translate technical information into compelling narratives for diverse audiences
Advanced digital communication and multimedia content creation skills
Experience working with research teams in an academic or institutional setting
Adeptness at relationship-building, collaboration, and co-creation/-ideation
Background in science and natural resource management
See the “Apply” or “Learn More” links below for more information.
