Communications Associate

Summary of Position: 

The Communications Associate is responsible for developing and deploying innovative tactics and tools that will elevate RFF’s research content and communicate it in accessible and compelling ways. This position is located in Washington, DC. 

Position Responsibilities: 

• Oversee project management for all communications activities related to RFF research projects.
• Create and manage innovative, meticulous impact plans for RFF research projects that identify target audiences, outreach lists, engagement tactics, messaging, and other collateral as needed.
• Act as the main liaison with scholars on the publication of their work.
• Oversee proofreading, copyediting, and report layout, using vendors where appropriate.
• Lead RFF publication design, using vendors such as copyeditors and graphic designers where appropriate.
• Assist as needed in the production of explanatory interactives, illustrations, and data tools.
• Oversee the production of reports, working papers, journal articles, explainers, and other publication types for the RFF website.
• Support the media relations staff with communication coordination and relevant materials, as needed.
• Serve as communications lead for various RFF research topics and projects, assisting with project coordination, marketing, web content management, and as a general point of contact for research staff.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Environmental/Energy Policy, Political Science, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field
• Any equivalent combination of training, education, and experience that demonstrates the ability to perform the essential functions of the position
• 1+ year of relevant communications experience
• Experience with writing, including the delivery of timely/newsworthy content, proofreading and copyediting
• Graphic design experience required
• Project management experience strongly preferred

Technical Requirements:   

Proficiency in the following software programs is necessary for this role:  

• Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook
• Internet browsers (Firefox, Chrome, Internet Explorer)
• Internal communications platforms such as Microsoft Teams, Zoom, etc.
• Graphic design programs like Adobe InDesign or Illustrator

Benefits:

Excellent benefits package and employee perks:

• Medical, Dental, Vision through Cigna
• 35 hour work week
• Flexible summer hours (4 day work week June-Sept)
• Flexible work arrangement policy (hybrid work)
• 11 paid holidays
• 4 weeks PTO to start, increases to 5 weeks after 5 years, in addition to 15 paid sick days per year
• State of the art fitness facility on site and free for all employees with regular fitness classes
• Deli on site
• Parking on site
• RFF contributes up to 15% of your salary to a 403(b) retirement account, depending on employee age in addition to a 401(a)
• Commuter benefit plans (pre-tax Metro and parking)

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, some standing, walking, sitting, bending, and carrying of light items such as books and papers is required.

Working Conditions

The work may involve everyday light risks and discomforts, which may require normal safety precautions typical of such places as offices, meetings, and training rooms, etc. The work area is adequately lighted, heated, and ventilated. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This position description may not describe all duties, responsibilities and skills associated with this position. It is intended to portray the major aspects of the job and is not meant to be all inclusive. Other duties or skills may be required.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

RFF (Resources for the Future) is committed to the letter and spirit of diversity, equity, and inclusion. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or national and ethnic origin in hiring and employment, nor in the administration and other programs. RFF’s Vision for a Diverse, Equitable, and Inclusive Future.

Visit our FAQ page to find out what it’s like to work at a world-class, policy-oriented research organization in the heart of Washington, DC