Communications Specialist I, Core Communications

Job Summary
In this role, you will be a part of WRI’s Core Communications team, primarily working on media relations to support our programs, centers and initiatives. You will lead and support outreach activities, including working with journalists, media pitching, writing, social media, communications strategy, messaging, presentations, events, and more. You will have the opportunity to apply hands-on communications skills daily, working closely with subject matter experts and top-tier communicators. You will also support the media and editorial team with coordination and related administrative tasks. You will be part of a highly motivated team using communications to address some of the world’s most pressing global environment and human development challenges. Approximately 60% of your time will be focused on communicating on behalf of WRI’s programs and centers, and 30% will be on broader institutional. Part of your job (10%) will be to support the Global Director of Communications with meeting planning, logistics, tracking projects, and related activities. This role requires someone who is a strong writer, energetic media pitcher, creative thinker, and is very organized and detail-oriented. A strong interest in the environment, sustainability and/or international development is desirable. Exposure to international cultures and multiple languages is also beneficial.

This position will begin remote due to Covid-19, but you will be expected to be based in WRI’s office in Washington, DC once the office reopens.

Job Responsibilities

• Conduct media relations, including writing pitches, communicating directly with journalists, and responding to incoming media requests
• Do media research utilizing WRI’s media database (Cision) and track news coverage and trends
• Help develop communications strategies and messages to support WRI reports, announcements, and external events
• Write and edit blogs, talking points, op-eds, and other communications materials
• Develop and carry out social media strategies on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.
• Create engaging PPT presentations
• Help with basic design projects including photo selection, social media graphics, etc., as needed
• Support internal and external events, including helping to design events, prepare speakers, and manage logistics
• Provide support for the Core Communications team and the Global Director of Communications, such as meeting scheduling, coordination, analytics, project management, and related administrative tasks
• Perform other related duties as assigned to ensure the efficient and effective functioning of the Core Communications team

Job Qualifications

• Undergraduate degree in journalism, communications, international relations, public policy, or related field
• Minimum 1 year of full-time experience in communications, journalism, public relations, or similar field; internships may be counted towards this requirement
• Excellent writing and editing skills
• Working knowledge of media relations and research
• Highly motivated, proactive work style
• Excellent organizational skills with a sharp attention to detail
• Ability to juggle multiple projects and meet deadlines 
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a fast-paced office environment, both independently and as part of a team
• Experience with the Cision media database preferred
• Working knowledge of social media platforms and trends 
• Experience with event planning and logistics is desirable
• Interest in and commitment to environment and international development, and a strong commitment to WRI’s mission and values
• US work authorization is required for this opportunity

How to Apply: Please submit a resume with cover letter. Applicants must apply through the WRI Careers portal to be considered. 

Potential Salary: $46,000 – $60,000. Salary is commensurate with experience and other compensable factors.

Program Overview

WRI’s Core Communications team, based largely in Washington D.C., oversees strategy and outreach for the Institute in support of WRI leadership, programs, centers, initiatives, and international offices. Communications is crucial to WRI’s success at achieving rapid, systemic change. The global communications team works as an integrated network to expand WRI’s reach, reputation and impact.

WRI Overview 

World Resources Institute (WRI) is an independent, nonprofit global research organization that turns big ideas into action at the nexus of environment, economic opportunity and human well-being. We are working to address seven critical challenges that the world must overcome this decade in order to secure a sustainable future for people and the planet: climate change, energy, food, forests, water, sustainable cities, and the ocean. 

We are passionate. We value our diversity of interests, skills and backgrounds. We have a flexible work environment. And we share a common goal to catalyze change that will improve the lives of people. Our shared ideals are at the core of our approach. They include: integrity, innovation, urgency, independence and respect. 

The foundation of our work is delivering high-quality research, data, maps and analysis to solve the world’s greatest environment and international development challenges, and improve people’s lives. We work with leaders in government, business and civil society to drive ambitious action and create change on the ground. Equally important, we bring together partners to develop breakthrough ideas and scale-up solutions for far-reaching, enduring impact.  

We have been growing rapidly: our staff has doubled in size over the past 5 years and our operating budget is now $150 million. Founded in 1982, WRI has a global staff of 1,000+ people with work spanning 60 countries. We have offices in Africa, Brazil, China, Europe, India, Indonesia, Mexico and the United States as well as a growing presence in other countries and regions.   

WRI is committed to advancing gender and social equity for human well-being in our mission and applies this principle to our organizational and programmatic practices.