OceanSpaces Communications Associate

OceanSpaces Communications Associate

California Ocean Science Trust

The California Ocean Science Trust is seeking a creative, dedicated and skilled individual to become the OceanSpaces Communications Associate for the MPA Monitoring Enterprise. This position will support implementation of the OceanSpaces communications plan which has been developed to raise the visibility of the online community, build the community by adding new members and content, and establish OceanSpaces as a credible source of scientific information. Critical to success is ensuring that information on OceanSpaces is communicated to diverse audiences using a range of methods that render the science understandable and relevant to management discussions.

A strong background in communications and outreach is necessary with a broad skill set that includes writing newsletters and blogs, building a social media presence and developing lasting relationships with key members of the community. The position will be based in Oakland, California. Starting date is as soon as possible, preferably by February 4, 2013. This is a temporary, 1-year contract position and includes generous benefits (medical, dental and vision). Salary will be commensurate with experience and is expected to be in the range of $40,000 - $50,000.

OceanSpaces

OceanSpaces.org is an online community that fosters new knowledge of ocean health. The platform brings together everyone with a stake in the health of California's ocean – scientists, fishermen, policymakers and citizens – offering new opportunities for individuals to communicate, create and share information. A shared body of scientific knowledge enables us to make informed decisions and becomes the basis for participation in ocean resource management and stewardship. OceanSpaces launched to the public in November 2012 as the hub of scientific monitoring data, analyses and results from California's network of marine protected areas (MPAs).

Duties

Execute main components of the OceanSpaces communications plan to advance immediate and long term communications goals. This includes generating new content, responding to user feedback and outreach efforts to increase the size, visibility, activity and credibility of the OceanSpaces community.
Identify networking and educational opportunities to inform targeted audiences of OceanSpaces' functions, features and relevance. Opportunities may range from in-person meetings, phone conversations, webinars, workshops and more. Some travel within California will be required.
Maintain and grow an active social media and online presence by updating Facebook and Twitter accounts, and identifying opportunities for OceanSpaces to be mentioned in blogs and other social media channels. Solicit inbound links and 'likes' from relevant websites and organizations.
Identify needs for new content and develop a consistent calendar for new community-generated content to be added to OceanSpaces. This may include monitoring project 'updates from the field', new photos and videos, and monitoring data.
Solicit, incorporate and respond to feedback from monitoring data providers, community members, site visitors and stakeholders in the continuing design, development and implementation OceanSpaces.
Assist with the development of new communications goals and tactics as the OceanSpaces community grows and evolves.
Support OST staff and managers as needed to further the OST mission.
Qualifications

Competitive candidates will have the following skills and attributes:

Excellent writing, editing and oral presentation skills
Strong interpersonal skills to professionally and effectively represent the organization before a variety of diverse audiences and in a wide range of circumstances.
Strong team player and outcome-driven with sound project management skills.
Strong ability to prioritize multiple tasks and remain flexible when faced with short or changing timelines.
Commitment to the mission and goals of the California Ocean Science Trust.
Authorized to work in the U.S.
Knowledge and experience:

Bachelor's or Master's degree in related field (e.g., English, journalism, public relations, marketing, communications) and minimum 3- 4 years relevant experience.
Prior experience working in a related field (e.g., marine science, ocean conservation, resource management) or non-profit/government experience strongly preferred
Experience in building and working with social media and social networks, as well as web content, design and web based publications.
Preferred: demonstrated experience in basic video editing, communicating science to diverse audiences, engaging community groups, and an understanding of the history of implementing California's Marine Life Protection Act.
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Application information

A full position description can be found at www.calost.org. Qualified applicants should apply via email to hr@calost.org, using a subject line of OceanSpaces Communications Associate. Please send 1) current resume; 2) links to relevant examples of communications materials you have produced, including a short writing sample; and 3) an application letter that includes a statement of your most relevant qualifications and experience relative to the qualifications listed in the full position description. Review of the applications is planned to begin on January 16, 2013, however applications will be accepted until the position is filled.