Specialist, Strategic Communications

How You’ll Contribute

The Communications Division uses creative and strategic tools to further the mission of the National Geographic Society, while maintaining our place as one of the world’s most trusted non-profit organizations and global brands. The team develops and executes mission-driven, on-brand strategic communications efforts for the Society and amplifies this content on our own channels, through outside partners and earned media. The team is composed of Strategic Communications, Executive Communications, Internal Communications and Social Media.

The Specialist, Strategic Communications is a member of the Strategic Communications team and supports the Society by amplifying our Explorers, the National Geographic Museum of Exploration, our programmatic work, and overall mission. This role will think critically on how to amplify our programs, impact and vision to global audiences using a mix of communication tools, platforms and tactics. This role will work closely with the broader Strategic Communications team.

Submission of a cover letter is required. A writing sample is encouraged.

Your Impact

Responsibilities Include

Strategic Communications Planning and Execution (50%)

• Assist in the development of integrated, strategic, and proactive external communications strategies that elevate the National Geographic Society’s Explorers, Museum of Exploration, programmatic work and mission.

• Develop, edit, and publish content for the Society’s various communications channels. This includes press releases, blog posts, social media posts and talking points.

• Create comprehensive press kits and social media toolkits that include branded images and caption usage requirements.

• Lead creative intake requests to guide the content design process from concept to completion. 

Media Relations and Outreach (20%)

• Secure media coverage for institutional announcements, Museum of Exploration updates and thought leadership initiatives.

• Compile targeted media lists, draft pitches and prepare detailed briefing documents for interviews and events.

• Support media training sessions for our community of Explorers and the Society’s leadership team.

• Monitor news coverage, maintain the team’s press tracker, monitor the pressroom inbox, post press releases and field media inquiries.

Stakeholder Relationship Management (20%)

• Serve as a communications liaison with our global community of Explorers, handling inquiries related to brand engagement, media support and scientific papers.

• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders to coordinate communications requests and ensure alignment on key announcements.

Operations and Administrative Support (10%)

• Provide essential team support by maintaining calendar invites, preparing agendas and distributing notes.

What You’ll Bring

Educational Background

Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism or related fields

Minimum Years and Type of Experience

3+ years of professional PR or communications experience

Necessary Knowledge and Skills

• Strong communicator and writer — knowledge of AP Style preferred.

• Detail-oriented, organized, and capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously (sometimes with tight deadlines).

• Experience pitching media, working with the press, and familiarity with print, broadcast, and digital outlets.

• A quick and motivated learner with enthusiasm for the National Geographic Society’s mission.

• A proactive self-starter and creative problem solver.

Desired Qualifications

• Understanding of different communications platforms, and how to best leverage them i.e. website, social media, press releases, blog posts, etc.

• Willingness to act as a National Geographic Ambassador and uphold our values — one of which is that everyone has a story to tell and every story matters.

Supervision

No direct reports

Salary Information

The National Geographic Society offers a competitive and holistic total rewards package. Our compensation structure and transparent pay philosophy are based on industry-specific market data for similar-sized nonprofit organizations.

The salary range for this position accounts for a wide range of factors including but not limited to organizational need; specific skill sets; experience and training; certifications; and more. At the National Geographic Society, individuals are typically hired at or near the starting point of the salary range for their role, and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case.

The salary range for this position is $70,300.00 - $74,000.00.

In addition, the National Geographic Society offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package that includes, but is not limited to, medical, dental, and vision insurance; engaging and comprehensive wellness program; 401(k) retirement savings plan with matching contributions after 6 months of employment; flexible paid time off benefits with up to 22 days of paid annual leave per calendar year (15 days for new hires in their first year, prorated based on the number of pay periods remaining in the year) and 10 days of sick leave; 12 paid holidays and a paid winter break between December 25 and 31 (May not apply to all roles that are required to work during high volume seasons or essential workers. Please check with the hiring manager for confirmation.); paid parental leave, adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility benefits; learning and development opportunities; Lifestyle Spending Account; pet adoption assistance and insurance; pre-tax transportation benefits with a generous employer subsidy; employer-paid life insurance and disability benefit; and a variety of National Geographic discounts and perks.

Job Designation

Hybrid - At the Society, we believe in the advantages of coming together to build community, mentor and learn from colleagues, and connect more deeply with our mission. As a result, the majority of our staff are Hybrid. Our Hybrid category requires that staff work at Base Camp two days each week: every Tuesday and Wednesday. Hybrid staff are also always welcome to come in additional days each week if preferred.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

We encourage you to apply even if your experience is not a 100% match with the position. We are looking for someone with relevant skills and experience, not a checklist that exactly matches the job description. We want to help you grow and in return, you help us grow into a stronger, more inclusive organization.