Associate Communication Research Jobs in Illinois

Description: Communications Associate

Position Overview:

The Chicago Bulls are seeking a highly motivated, organized and collaborative Communications Associate to support both the Basketball Communications and Brand Communications functions throughout the 2026-27 season. This seasonal associate position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience across multiple communications disciplines within an NBA organization.

The primary focus of this role will be with Basketball Communications, supporting day-to-day basketball media operations, gameday communications, team publications and player and coach media relations. The role will also support Brand Communications initiatives, including corporate storytelling, internal communications and organizational events.

This cross-functional experience is designed to provide a well-rounded foundation for individuals pursuing a career in sports communications. The Communications Associate will collaborate with departments throughout the organization, including Basketball Operations, Marketing, Community Engagement, Content Marketing and Corporate Partnerships.

This role will participate in the Bulls Rookie Program and is scheduled to start in September 2026 and continue until the conclusion of the 26-27 season.

Primary Job Responsibilities (Basketball Communications):

• Support the development of departmental publications (e.g., preseason guide, media guide, playoff guide, gameday information materials, game notes, postgame notes, etc.).
• Compile and distribute daily news clippings covering Chicago Bulls coverage from local and national media outlets.
• Help manage the Bulls Media Center regarding media accounts and all related department materials.
• Assist with the credentialing process for media members, including application management through the Bulls Media Center portal and gameday distribution.
• Assist Basketball Communications staff with press operations throughout the season.
• Transcribe player and coach interviews for internal use and media distribution.
• Help coordinate and manage media during gamedays.
• Assist with media seating, stat distribution, and other gameday operational needs.
• Perform additional projects as needed.

Home Gameday Responsibilities:

• Expected to work all Bulls home games.
• Assist with all media availability logistics for both home and visiting teams.
• Support all gameday arena setup, press conference production and media coordination.
• Help maintain organized press operations areas and media workrooms.
• Provide relevant basketball statistical knowledge with a focus on current Bulls players and Bulls history.

Additional Responsibilities (Brand Communications):

• Research, write and edit communications materials including press releases, media advisories, executive briefs, talking points, fact sheets, website copy and internal communications.
• Support internal communications initiatives, including all-staff newsletters and Town Hall meetings.
• Assist with planning and execution of corporate, community and organizational events.
• Additional communications tasks, as assigned

Qualifications:

The team is looking for a highly organized and driven individual who has a passion for public/media relations and communications, within the world of sports. You could be a potential match for this role if you have a mix of the following:

• Bachelor's degree in public relations, journalism or a communications-related field.
• Strong interest and passion for a career in sports communications, media relations, or public relations.
• Excellent writing, editing and communication skills (both written and verbal).
• Ability to work in a fast-paced sports environment.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Knowledge of the Chicago Bulls and National Basketball Association.
• Self-motivated and ambitious with a strong work ethic.
• Excellent teammate with positive energy and attitude.
• Ability to take direction and collaborate across multiple teams.?
• Maintains a professional working demeanor and the ability to handle confidential information.

Compensation & Benefits:

This role pays $20/hour and is eligible to earn overtime pay. The Chicago Bulls offer a relocation stipend for any candidates making a move to the state of Illinois. The Chicago Bulls offer competitive benefits and perks. Our benefit offerings for seasonal associates include, but are not limited to:

• Healthcare, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid time-off including paid leave and sick pay
• Complimentary home game tickets, parking, and gym access
• Complimentary snacks, lunch and dinner (dinner if working games / events).
• Pet Insurance

This role requires flexible work hours and may include work outside of normal office hours during the business week and on weekends. Full-time remote work is not an option for this role and interested applicants should be currently located in or prepared to move to the Chicagoland area.

We are an Equal Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Requirements: