Communications Specialist

Philanthropy Northwest is seeking a detail-oriented and creative Communications Specialist to support the implementation of a communications and storytelling strategy for the Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program, a national initiative funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This position will focus on managing content development, coordinating public-facing communications and supporting media and partner engagement activities in collaboration with the program and communications teams.

This is an execution-oriented role well-suited for a communications professional with experience in nonprofit or public-sector storytelling, digital campaigns, media relations and community-centered content development. The ideal candidate is a strong writer and project manager who enjoys transforming complex topics into clear, compelling messages and ensuring high-quality, consistent delivery across channels.

• Role Type- Part-time 15 -20 hrs/wk (6-month LTE with possibility to extend)
• Reports to - Vice President, Marketing and Communications
• Location- Remote position. Must be based in Seattle or anywhere in Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, or Washington state.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Implement communications plans for the Thriving Communities program, coordinating timelines, deliverables and content development in partnership with the VP of Marketing and Communications and the program team.
• Create and manage public-facing content such as newsletters, fact sheets, press releases, talking points, social media posts, and website updates that reflect the goals and values of the program.
• Support media and public relations efforts including drafting releases, identifying pitch opportunities, tracking media coverage and coordinating with external consultants or media contacts.
• Gather and share impact stories from grantees and community partners that reflect the values of equity, environmental justice and community leadership.
• Maintain and update communications materials across platforms (web, social, email), ensuring accessibility, consistency and cultural relevance.
• Coordinate closely with program staff and partners to ensure timely communication of program updates, milestones and opportunities to stakeholders, including EPA and community-based organizations.
• Track communications metrics and support reporting requirements through analytics, summaries and content archiving.
• Support internal communications to keep staff, board members and program collaborators informed of key updates and resources.
• Manage communications deliverables and schedules with contractors, vendors and design consultants.
• Ensure brand alignment and editorial quality across all grant-related communications.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in communications, public relations, journalism or content production with a demonstrated focus on public interest, nonprofit or mission-driven work.
• Strong writing and editing skills with experience translating complex topics into accessible, engaging content for public audiences.
• Demonstrated experience managing multi-channel communications projects and timelines.
• Experience developing content for digital platforms, newsletters, press releases and social media.
• Familiarity with public relations practices and media engagement strategies.
• Knowledge of best practices in storytelling, especially in equity-centered and community-based contexts.
• Comfort using content tools such as Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, Mailchimp or similar platforms.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects on deadline.
• Cultural competence and a commitment to advancing racial and environmental equity.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience working on grant-funded or government-funded programs.
• Background or training in public relations, communications, journalism or public affairs.
• Familiarity with EPA programs, environmental justice frameworks or related policy areas.
• Knowledge of the Pacific Northwest region and its diverse communities.
• Experience working with philanthropy, community-based organizations or in coalition-driven efforts.