careerS

Communications Associate

ORGANIZATION SUMMARY:
Transit for Livable Communities is a  nonpartisan, nonprofit organization working to reform Minnesota’s transportation system in order to strengthen community, improve health and opportunity for all people, foster a sound economy, and protect our natural resources. Through advocacy, community organizing, research, and effective communications we promote a balanced transportation system that encourages transit, walking, bicycling, and more compact development. The largest transportation advocacy organization in Minnesota, with nearly 10,000 advocates and members and a full-time staff of 12 employees, Transit for Livable Communities is a respected player in shaping regional and state transportation. This is an especially exciting time, with a transit funding campaign in development and the culmination of the Bike Walk Twin Cities federal nonmotorized pilot program. Transit for Livable Communities is located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, in an award-winning, mixed-use development served by two bus lines and plenty of bike parking.

TYPE: Full Time / 40 hours. Salary range: DOQ. Excellent benefits.   
DEADLINE: 2/21/2012 Open until filled

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The Communications Associate helps implement TLC’s communications and media strategy, working under the direction of the Communications Director and in collaboration with TLC staff. The position is ideal for a strongly-motivated individual interested in using a range of tools to build awareness and understanding of transit, bicycling, walking, and supportive land use among diverse audiences, including TLC members, the general public, media, and institutional stakeholders. Successful candidates will demonstrate a strong commitment to TLC’s mission, bring strong written, interpersonal, and online communications skills, including ability to work with web sites, e-mail, social media, and, video. The ideal candidate is a self-starter, able to work independently but also as a respectful, contributing member of a team. The position requires flexibility, responsiveness, great attention to detail, and sensitivity to the needs and viewpoints of diverse audiences and partners.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Online and print communications

• Keep TLC web site pages up to date, working proactively to ensure timeliness and accuracy of content and that it is sync with organization’s initiatives and priorities. Maintain TLC calendar of events. Assist Communications Director in site development and management issues.
• Coordinate TLC blogs. Work with staff-written blogs, including arranging for appropriate images or other supporting materials. Propose topics for coverage via blogs or other media (e.g., video, pod cast).As assigned and with direction and approvals of final content, write blogs or create other kinds of coverage of TLC issues and events.
• Compile, design, and distribute e-news for organization according to annual schedule. Proof and ensure accuracy of content.
• Coordinate social media postings on Facebook, Twitter, and other social media channels. Keep up to date on new tools for managing social media (e.g., Hootsuite) and for conveying TLC’s mission, message, and priorities. Provide assistance with other online venues or opportunities as needed. Provide regular reports on social and online communications metrics and measurement. Suggest ways to increase effectiveness of online vehicles and follow through on initiatives approved.
• Support TLC staff in aligning organization’s messages and communications, including preparation and proofing of content, posting, technical assistance with formats, etc.
• Work with Communications Director to prepare print newsletters, helping with scheduling, concepts, writing, photography, and other elements.
• Serve as internal writer/editor, provide communications assistance to TLC staff, helping proof and prepare documents/material in all formats and channels.
• Attend and participate in team meetings in order to be fully familiar and up to date on organization’s priorities, goals, and communications needs. Assist Communications Director in identifying and responding to changing needs and opportunities.

Media relations

• Assist communications director in proactively pitching and responding to media requests. Draft advisories, press releases, and supporting materials. As assigned, create media strategies, timelines, and messages, carrying out campaigns for specific initiatives and events.
• Provide support at media events, including preparing materials, taking photographs, arranging details.
• With training and as assigned, act as spokesperson for organization.
• Maintain media database and tracking documents.

Community events, engagement, and outreach

• Help coordinate TLC events as needed. Represent TLC in public settings, conveying organization’s values and mission.
• Working in collaboration with Communications Director and TLC staff, develop and nurture external relationships, including providing status and updates to keep TLC staff informed.

Administrative support

• Serve on internal teams and projects as assigned.
• Prepare meeting agendas and minutes as assigned.
• Update TLC’s phone messages. Coordinate issues related to internet hosting, domains, and maintenance.
• Other duties as assigned.

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree and demonstrated experience with communications tools and/or media relations
• Interest in transportation issues and personal commitment to using transit, bicycling, and walking, to get around.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communications skills. Understanding of web sites and social networking tools desired. Video experience a plus.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with flexibility and humor and responsiveness 
• Experience working with diverse communities a plus. Proficiency in a second language also a plus.

For background please visit:
www.tlcminnesota.org
www.bikewalktwincities.org

HOW TO APPLY:
Please submit cover letter indicating your passion for the organization’s work and the qualities you would bring to it, resume, and writing sample (no more than 2 pages) to: tlcsearch2012@gmail.com

TRANSIT FOR LIVABLE COMMUNITIES IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER