We're Hiring! Science Communication Specialist

New Hampshire Sea Grant (NHSG) seeks a Communication Information Specialist II to support its communications program and serve as its ‘Science Communication Specialist.’ The Science Communication Specialist is the lead content creator for NHSG, a joint program of the University of New Hampshire and NOAA’s National Sea Grant College Program. NHSG works to enhance our relationship with the coastal environment to sustain healthy ecosystems, economies, and resilient and inclusive communities.

From initial concept to post-production, the Science Communication Specialist generates creative and innovative digital and print content (photo, video, writing, graphics, web) in order to maximize the impact and visibility of Sea Grant-supported activities for diverse target audiences. Effective storytelling is central to NHSG’s communications strategy and goals. Reporting to NHSG’s Assistant Director for Communications, the Science Communication Specialist must demonstrate strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills and possess a clear understanding of audience identification and engagement. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a wide variety of settings: campus, lab, field, dockside, and aboard vessels. Some travel and coverage of evening/weekend events is to be expected.

1. Bachelor’s degree preferably in communications, journalism, science, or related fields.
2. 2 years of work experience that demonstrates effectiveness in media, science communication, marketing, outreach, digital design, or related fields.
3. Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
4. Comfortable communicating science-related topics, often for non-science audiences and the public.
5. Advanced skills/specialization in digital photography and videography to produce compelling photo/video content (Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, Lightroom, Photoshop)
6. Proficiency with graphic design (InDesign, Canva), web content management systems (Drupal, Squarespace), and/or data visualization (ArcGIS, ESRI StoryMaps)
7. Experience managing social media accounts, particularly Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X, YouTube, and LinkedIn.
8. Self-starter who is willing to seek out content ideas, establish collaborative relationships, and work independently.
9. Ability to manage multiple projects at a given time and to meet deadlines productively and accountably.
10. Excited to learn new things and build a portfolio with the position.

1. Awareness of and interest in local and regional coastal, marine, and environmental topics.
2. Experience reading and summarizing research results, interviewing scientific investigators in various settings, and translating research findings to the appropriate clientele.
3. Knowledge of proofreading, editing, branding, and appropriate style guides.
4. Familiarity with digital accessibility, captioning, etc.
5. Team-oriented, open-minded, adaptable, and creative individual.

• Capture high-quality digital photos and videos to enliven subjects, tell visually engaging stories, and elevate NHSG’s work and partnerships. Settings include campus, lab, field sites, dockside, aboard vessels, etc. Provide photo/video coverage of special events, as needed.
• Participate in all aspects of production and editing, from concept to completion and preparation for dissemination. (Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, Lightroom, Photoshop)
• Use and maintain professional camera equipment before, during, and after shoots.
• Plan and conduct in-person interviews, including the development of interview questions.
• Contribute to and support the maintenance of a media library of digital image assets.
• Photo and video assets may stand alone or accompany written narratives and graphic elements for print or digital publication.

• Identify, conceptualize, and write narrative science stories and technical content for print and digital publications and marketing materials (fact sheets, brochures, posters, articles, blog posts, web pages, social media, e-newsletters, etc.).
• Profile the work of staff and researchers to increase the impact and visibility of NHSG-supported research, extension, and education activities.
• Edit and proofread content with a high level of attention to detail. Incorporate feedback from reviewers.
• Produce written content in style that is appropriate for intended audiences, factually accurate, and consistent with the NHSG brand and messaging system.

• Assist in the management and maintenance of NHSG’s main website and other affiliated sites by regularly updating and refreshing content.
• Stay up to date with web management tools and best practices, including digital/online accessibility.
• Contribute to a robust and effective social media presence for NHSG. Current platforms include Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X, YouTube, and LinkedIn.
• Act strategically, increase visibility, boost traffic, engage with followers as needed, and track and measure the impact of efforts.

• Design a wide range of graphics for print and digital purposes, such as social media graphics, event flyers, factsheets, brochures, reports, and infographics. (Adobe Creative Suite and Canva)
• Create graphics that align with NHSG branding and style guide.

• Develop project ideas, bring teams together, and help set group expectations and timelines.
• Represent NHSG in collaborations with partners and external organizations.
• Participate in peer-networking groups within UNH and the National Sea Grant Network.
• Elevate communications projects of state, regional, and national significance that tell compelling stories of marine and coastal challenges that are timely and relevant to diverse audiences.

• Attend professional development and training opportunities, workshops, and conferences.
• Other duties as assigned that help advance the mission of NHSG.

Position Type

• 100% (full-time, 40-hour/week), salaried, benefited, grant funded
• Salary range depending on skills and experience: $52,000-55,000/year
• Grant funded positions are contingent upon continued grant funding (Expected)
• Salary is complemented by a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, dental, retirement, tuition, and paid time off
• This position is based at the NH Sea Grant main office in Durham, NH. Business hours are Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; however, there may be times when work beyond regular business hours, including weekends, may be necessary in order to complete the requirements of the position
• Some in-state and out-of-state travel is expected

To Apply

Applicants must submit an application through the University System of New Hampshire Jobs Portal, Posting Number PS4624FY24: https://jobs.usnh.edu/postings/61094. 

Required Application Documents

1. Resume/CV
2. Cover Letter

Optional Application Documents

1. Portfolio of sample work
2. Writing Sample

APPLY HERE

This position is available immediately. Review of applications will begin on June 3, 2024 and will continue until the position is filled. Priority review will be given to applicants who submit materials before June 3. 

The University System of New Hampshire is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access/Affirmative Action employer. The University System is committed to creating an environment that values and supports diversity and inclusiveness across our campus communities and encourages applications from qualified individuals who will help us achieve this mission. The University System prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or marital status. Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the U.S.