Job Description
Communications Assistant
Location: Remote, with hybrid work options if located in Twin Cities area
Reports to: Managing Editor and Senior Writer
Position type: One-year contract with potential for permanent hire
Compensation: $45,000 – $55,000
ABOUT THE GREAT PLAINS INSTITUTE
A nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, the Great Plains Institute (GPI) is transforming the energy system to benefit the economy and environment. Increased demand for GPI’s unique blend of energy expertise and consensus-derived solutions has driven organizational and programmatic growth. With headquarters in Minnesota, GPI’s operations are national in scope while retaining a core competency in the Midcontinent region. GPI is powered by more than 50 professionals and is supported by some of the nation’s most respected philanthropies. .
THIS POSITION
To further support GPI’s mission, the Communications Assistant will support the Communications team in its efforts to increase the organization’s impact.
This position is an opportunity for a recent graduate or someone early in their communications career to contribute to GPI’s mission and for professional development by working on several key communications channels and functions, such as GPI’s website, social media, and program support.
GPI’s goal for this position is to provide a stepping stone into a successful career in communications. Through this position, the individual will have gained valuable experience in social media management, digital content design, project management, search engine optimization, strategic communications, writing, and editing. Furthermore, they will have the opportunity to work closely with and learn from experts who work every day to decarbonize the largest carbon dioxide-emitting sectors in the country.
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
General support:
- project management for content development
- fulfill staff requests for GPI brand collateral (logos, templates, etc.)
- administrative support
- other duties as assigned
Digital communications support:
- assist with social media posts and other content development
- migrate website content
- assist staff with uploading blog posts and publications onto GPI website and other communication platforms
The position may include drafting original content and graphics, depending on experience.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS
Qualifications:
- commitment to the mission and goals of GPI
- experience in communications, journalism, public relations, graphic design, or a related field
- ability to maintain confidentiality and work with integrity
- possess strong written and oral communication skills
- organized, creative, and detail-oriented with an ability to work independently
- ability to meet deadlines
- willingness to learn and experiment with new project management and design platforms
Preferred qualifications:
- experience with project management
- experience with social media tools (Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube)
- experience with graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator)
- familiarity and experience with editing website content
- basic understanding of HTML
- basic understanding of WordPress content management system
- familiarity with the Microsoft Office suite
