Communications Specialist

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Description

Description

To Apply: Submit resume, cover letter, two writing samples, and two design samples.

Overall Function:

The Communications Specialist supports the mission of Optimist Youth Homes and Family Services by implementing effective communications strategies that promote our programs, enhance public awareness, and engage key stakeholders across multiple platforms. This position is ideal for a creative, motivated communicator who thrives in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

Essential Duties and

Responsibilities Include:

Communications

• Develop, write, and edit content for print and digital platforms including newsletters, press releases, blog posts, donor communications, and website content.
• Create grammatically correct and compelling copy tailored to target audiences.
• Support internal and external communication efforts, including media engagement, public relations, employee newsletters, etc.
• Maintain brand consistency across all materials.
• Collaborate with staff to identify stories, milestones, and events to highlight in communications.
• Create engaging, audience-focused content that is informative and visually appealing.
• Ensure the online content adheres to the industry guidelines and organization standards.
• Create and maintain editorial calendars.
• Bring a creative approach and original ideas to all communications work.
• Must be self-motivated.
• Work in collaboration with a social media contractor to provide content, media assets, and event information.
• Stay informed of trends and best practices in communications, social media, and digital design.

• Coordinate design and production of marketing and promotional materials, including brochures, flyers, signage, annual reports, etc.
• Design communication assets including newsletters, department brochures, fundraising materials, and special event collateral.
• Provide design and logistical support for events (e.g., invitations, programs, Power Points, e-blasts).
• Attend team and staff meetings and assist with various efforts relating to these meetings.
• Design holiday and other appeals throughout the year.
• Ensure all departments within the organization are adhering to the organization's branding guidelines as needed.
• Lead projects involving branding updates or refresh initiatives.
• Serve as the liaison to off-site printers and continuously seek competitive pricing.
• Attend and participate in mandatory training and in-services as required

• Designing and implementing new features and functionality on the website.
• Guide site architecture to ensure intuitive navigation and usability.
• Ensure high performance, accessibility, and responsiveness across platforms.
• Helping formulate fast, effective, responsive design while working with themes and plugins.
• Analyzing website performance and troubleshooting errors.
• Handling the backend of the website, including database and server integration.
• Ensuring the website is current on ADA and other required compliances.
• Keep the site visually current and aligned with best practices.

• Other reasonable activities and duties as assigned

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field.
• 2–4 years of relevant experience, preferably in a nonprofit or mission-driven organization.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with social media platforms, email marketing tools, and website CMS (e.g., Word Press).
• Familiarity with graphic design tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, or similar.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Passion for the nonprofit sector and alignment with our mission.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills, with the ability to meet tight deadlines.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities in a deadline driven environment.
• All employees, regardless of position, serve as role models for children and adolescents who are served by our agency. Therefore,…