Communications Associate Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

The salary range for this position is $61,000 to $76,000ORGANIZATION OVERVIEW

As a strategic partner of the United Nations, the United Nations Foundation brings together fresh thinking and diverse voices around innovative ideas to drive progress and tackle problems. Sometimes we work behind-the-scenes, shaping negotiations and connecting experts, advocates and decision-makers. Other times we drive public awareness and involvement through communications, campaigns, and convenings. Over the years we’ve developed a diverse and dynamic portfolio of capabilities, tools, and platforms to help the UN build a better world for everyone, everywhere.

The Universal Access Project convenes an innovative multisector community of philanthropists, advocates and companies striving for a world where all people have full bodily autonomy and the right to self-determination.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Senior Communications Associate supports the planning and implementation of communications activities for the Universal Access Project (UAP). Working under the direction of the Executive Director and in close coordination with the Global Communications and Engagement team, this role is responsible for developing high-quality written and digital content, managing communications workflows, and ensuring timely execution of communications deliverables aligned with UAP’s strategic priorities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Communications Planning & Implementation

• Implement communications strategies and plans aligned with UAP programmatic priorities.
• Maintain UAP’s editorial calendar to ensure timely and coordinated messaging.
• Coordinate communications deliverables across internal teams and external partners.
• Ensure all externally facing communications adhere to UAP and UNF brand standards and approval processes.
• Support evaluation of communications activities against defined objectives.
• Track and analyze performance of UAP website, email, and social media platforms.

Writing & Content Development

• Draft blogs, web content, newsletters, email communications, and social media content.
• Draft briefing materials, talking points, fact sheets, and background documents for leadership.
• Support development of reports and other written publications.
• Draft correspondence and communications materials for senior leadership review and approval.
• Revise and edit content to ensure clarity, accuracy, and consistency.

Digital & Multimedia Communications

• Maintain and update the Universal Access Project website and LinkedIn presence.
• Create and distribute multimedia content in collaboration with partners and the Global Communications and Engagement team.
• Track and analyze digital engagement metrics and recommend adjustments to improve performance.
• Support digital campaigns and content amplification efforts.

Media Monitoring & Support

• Monitor news coverage related to UAP priorities and track media mentions.
• Compile media clips and coverage summaries.
• Draft media materials (press releases, advisories, statements) for review and approval.
• Support media outreach efforts led by the Global Communications and Engagement team, as requested.

Events & Coordination

• Coordinate communications logistics for UAP events, meetings, and external engagements.
• Draft event-related materials including invitations, promotional content, and briefing documents.
• Support post-event communications and follow-up materials.

Vendor & Relationship Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact for UAP communications vendors.
• Track and update project timelines, deliverables, and invoices related to communications activities.
• Liaise with Public Affairs, Advocacy, and other internal departments to ensure coordinated messaging and approvals.

General Support

• Provide day-to-day communications support for UAP programs and initiatives.
• Maintain organized documentation of communications materials and outputs.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES The Senior Associate, Communications, Universal Access Project is not a supervisory role.EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION and/or EXPERIENCE To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, marketing, public policy, international affairs, or a related field.
• 3–5 years of relevant professional experience in communications, public affairs, or related field.
• Experience related to women’s health and rights strongly preferred
• Familiarity with global development issues preferred

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES

• Excellent writing, editing, and oral communication skills.
• Demonstrated experience producing digital and multimedia content.
• Proficiency in in MailChimp, WordPress, Square Space and/or other content and contact management systems required.
• Proficiency with Canva, Adobe Creative Suite and tools such as Hootsuite, Sprout Social and Trello highly desired.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Ability to work collaboratively across teams and with external partners.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Ability to manage competing priorities.
• Skill assessment is part of the interview process

WORK ENVIRONMENT Initial functions of this role will generally be performed in a typical professional office environment with routine use of standard office equipment. Employees are expected to work on-site in accordance with UNF’s hybrid work policy, which currently requires regular in-office presence. LOCATIONWhile The United Nations Foundation headquarters is located in Washington, DC, you are on a hybrid work schedule. You are expected to commute to the office three (3) days per week and you may work from home two (2) days per week. DISABILITY SPECIFICATIONS The United National Foundation will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS

It is required you upload your resume and a cover letter for this position. Your application will be considered incomplete without these items. Please note that we cannot consider your application without a resume and cover letter submission.

BENEFITS COMPENSATION

For full-time, U.S. benefit eligible employees, UNF offers an excellent range of benefits, including:

• a choice between two health plans through UnitedHealthcare (PPO or HDHP with HSA)
• dental insurance
• vision insurance
• flexible spending accounts
• 403b retirement savings plan with a generous matching contribution
• group term and supplemental life insurance
• short-term disability
• long-term disability
• back-up care
• employee assistance program

Additionally, all benefit eligible employees have 12 paid holidays, 20 vacation days, 10 sick days, 3 personal days, and 8 weeks of family leave care.

The United Nations Foundation is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.