Communications Associate, Education Systems

AIR's Human Service Division is seeking a Communication Associate to join our Education Systems & Policy program area and support communication activities with the Research on Education Strategies to Advance Recovery and Turnaround (RESTART) Network,  and other education projects.

Candidates hired for the position might initially start working remotely but will eventually have the option to work from one of our U.S. office locations or continue to work remotely based in the U.S.

About AIR:

Established in 1946, with headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, AIR is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit institution that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance to solve some of the most urgent challenges in the U.S. and around the world. We advance evidence in the areas of education, health, the workforce, human services, and international development to create a better, more equitable world.

AIR's commitment to diversity goes beyond legal compliance to its full integration in our strategy, operations, and work environment. At AIR, we define diversity broadly, considering everyone's unique life and community experiences. We believe that embracing diverse perspectives, abilities/disabilities, racial/ethnic and cultural backgrounds, styles, ages, genders, gender identities and expressions, education backgrounds, and life stories drives innovation and employee engagement. Learn more about AIR's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Strategy and hear from our staff by clicking here.

The responsibilities for the position include:

• Plan and coordinate a multi-faceted communications strategy in conjunction with AIR research and technical assistance staff to diverse clients and audiences.
• Work closely with project team members to develop strategic outreach plans based on project goals to promote resources, events, and products.
• Develop social media and website content including blog posts focused on education related topics.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to conceptualize and provide user-oriented research products focused on education related topics.
• Work collaboratively with researchers and subject matter experts to develop content and coordinate with editing, production, and design technical staff.
• Assist with the organization and production of public-facing resources including social media, blogs, newsletters, webinars, infographics, and more for projects including the RESTART Network.
• Conduct literature reviews regarding various education issues and draft content for internal and external reports.
• Maintain social media and web analytics tracking and Develop data-informed communications plans for assigned projects.
• Assist in developing and drafting proposals with program staff for foundation, corporate, government, and other funding sources.
• Provide administrative project support to senior management and clientele, where applicable.

Education, Knowledge, and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience in education research, policy, journalism or communications or Master's degree in education research, policy, journalism or communications.
• Experience translating technical content and research for a non-expert audience as well as writing for the web.
• Experience differentiating communications strategies to reach specific audiences.
• Experience with social media platforms and managers including Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Sprout Social, Tweetdeck and experience with web content management systems.
• Knowledge of education policy is preferred but not required.

 Skills:

• Demonstrated proficiencies in writing, conceptualizing, analyzing, and consulting.
• Strong interest in working with teams to develop communications and outreach plans that reach a range of audiences including policymakers, caregivers, school leaders, and educators.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously and manage competing deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills and a strong client-service orientation.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite of products.
• Must possess strong organizational and interpersonal skills.

Disclosures:

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis. Employment-based visa sponsorship (including H-1B sponsorship) is not available for this position. Depending on project work, qualified candidates may need to meet certain residency requirements.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.

AIR adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles and will therefore undergo rigorous reference and background checks.

AIR's Total Rewards Program, is designed to reward our staff competitively and motivate them to achieve our critical mission. This position offers an anticipated annual salary of $60,000.00 - $70,000.00. Salary offers are made based on internal equity within the institution and external equity with competitive markets. Please note this is the annual salary range for candidates that are based in the United States.

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