Communications Associate

Job Description

Position: Communications Associate

F.L.S.A. Classification: Exempt

Reports to: Director of Communications and Development

Summary:

Overbrook School for the Blind (OSB) develops and delivers education that enhances the options available for persons with visual impairment/blindness including those with additional challenges so that they have the greatest opportunity to experience active and fulfilling lives.

The Communications Associate will support this mission as an integral part of the development and communications team and as an active member of the OSB community. The successful candidate will take ownership of their job responsibilities with initiative and creativity, combining an appreciation for existing institutions with the ability and willingness to innovate.

Essential Functions:

• Work collaboratively with the Director of Development & Communications to plan and implement an annual comprehensive communications plan and calendar
• Stay current with and implement communications best practices
• Manage and create graphic and narrative content for organizational website, social media platforms, newsletters, capital campaigns, marketing materials, and fundraising campaigns
• Write compelling and accessible messaging to be used across an array of communications and fundraising platforms
• Produce impact stories by identifying opportunities across programs and being responsible for content creation
• Produce Annual Report, in collaboration with staff and outside vendors as needed
• Oversee all aspects of the school newsletter, TOWERS (3X a year)
• Maintain www.obs.org, including drafting material, managing the site, and adhering to accessibility best practices
• Establish relationships with relevant publications, and media outlets to highlight OSB’s work and raise awareness of the school
• Maintain cohesive branding materials and templates
• Maintain and grow the school library of photographs for content development
• Support special events
• Other job-related responsibilities as assigned

Required Education and Experience:

• A Bachelor’s degree in communications or a related field is preferred. Equivalent experience can be substituted for a Bachelor’s degree.
• 3 to 5 years of demonstrated experience.
• Demonstrated proficiency in communications software such as Illustrator, WordPress, Adobe, and InDesign.

Qualifications

• Excellent writing and editing skills in various formats
• Experience in elementary graphic design, and ability to work with external partners on developing graphic material
• Experience with platforms/software used in the communications field such as, social media, website, graphic design and marketing
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically about an organization’s branding and messaging
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including writing, proofreading, and copy editing.
• Ensure communication activities are based on accepted principles, methods, and best practices.
• Excellent organization, prioritization, and judgment. Strong detail orientation and follow-through
• Ability to problem-solve and make thoughtful decisions
• Initiative and ability to work independently as well as working collaboratively as part of a team
• Willingness to work evenings and weekends when necessary

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at a time.

Please submit a cover letter and resume to Pam McGonigle at pamela.mcgonigle@obs.org

Overbrook School for the Blind Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

Overbrook School for the Blind (OSB) has, and will continue to follow, a policy of recruiting, employing, and promoting individuals best qualified for any position by reason of education, training, and experience without regard to race, color, ancestry, genetic information, familial or marital status, domestic or sexual violence victimization, ethnicity, religion, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or a related medical condition), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or non-job-related disability or the use of a guide or support animal because of blindness, deafness or physical disability. OSB shall not discriminate against an individual who has exercised his/her rights against discrimination in accordance with applicable federal, state, or local laws.

Overbrook School for the Blind offers a competitive salary and benefits package reflective of the applicant’s training and experience.

Interested applicants can apply via on-line: https://www.applitrack.com/obs/onlineapp/

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Philadelphia, PA 19151: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Experience:

• Writing skills: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location: In person