Communications Coordinator

California Native Plant Society•Sacramento, CA

11d•$27 - $29•Hybrid

About The Position

The Communications Coordinator is a key member of CNPS’s Public Affairs team, a multidisciplinary group leading the organization’s external and internal communications, digital strategy, public policy, public engagement, partnerships, and publications. This role supports CNPS's communications and public affairs efforts through content creation, media relations support, volunteer engagement, and administrative coordination. The Communications Coordinator develops content for a variety of platforms including CNPS's website, email newsletters, publications, and marketing materials. The role also supports media outreach efforts, helps coordinate communication and training for CNPS Chapter volunteers, and maintains digital communication assets and systems. Working closely with colleagues across the organization, the Communications Coordinator helps ensure that CNPS communications are engaging, accurate, timely, and aligned with organizational priorities. This position is ideal for a collaborative communications professional who enjoys balancing content creation, relationship-building, project coordination, and administrative support in service of CNPS's mission.

Requirements

At least 2-3 years of professional experience in communications, public relations, marketing, journalism, public affairs, or related fields.
Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills with the ability to translate complex information into accessible and engaging content.
Experience creating communications materials such as newsletters, blog posts, articles, media materials, website content, or social media content.
Experience adapting content for different audiences and communication channels.
Experience using email marketing platforms to develop and distribute newsletters or other email communications.
Experience updating content in WordPress or similar content management systems.
Proficiency using Canva or similar design tools to update and create communications materials from established templates.
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines while maintaining attention to detail.
Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, volunteers, community members, and external partners.
Ability to exercise sound judgment, take initiative, and follow through on assignments with limited supervision.
Commitment to providing responsive and professional support to internal and external audiences.
Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace applications.
Interest in conservation, native plants, biodiversity, public lands, environmental education, or related topics.
Commitment to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and welcoming environment for colleagues, volunteers, partners, and community members with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Demonstrated awareness of inclusive communication practices and a commitment to creating content that is accessible and relevant to diverse audiences.
Commitment to supporting CNPS's mission, values, and goals.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting media relations, public affairs, or public engagement initiatives.
Experience working with volunteers, member-based organizations, nonprofits, or community groups.
Experience creating or appearing in video or multimedia content.
Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, marketing, environmental studies, or in a related field.
Relevant professional experience may substitute for a degree on a year-for-year basis.
Bilingual or multilingual communication skills, particularly in languages commonly spoken in California.

Responsibilities

Research, interview experts, and write occasional articles for Flora, CNPS' quarterly print magazine.
Develop content for and distribute CNPS’ monthly email newsletter.
Create and update website content, including blog posts, event listings, and programmatic content.
Adapt and update communications materials using established Canva templates, including flyers, presentations, postcards, and one-pagers.
Contribute content to annual reports, quarterly reports, and other marketing and communications materials.
Support social media content creation, including recording direct-to-camera videos and assisting with multimedia storytelling projects.
Coordinate monthly virtual Public Affairs meetings for CNPS Chapter volunteers and prepare supporting materials.
Collaborate with CNPS’s Digital Media & Website Producer to support volunteer training related to Chapter communications tools and websites (no coding experience is required).
Assist volunteers with access to and use of CNPS communication platforms.
Serve as a point of coordination between the Public Affairs team and Chapter volunteers, helping connect inquiries to appropriate staff resources.
Draft press releases, media advisories, and other media materials.
Assist with media outreach and reporter engagement efforts.
Monitor and internally report on media coverage related to CNPS priorities on an ongoing basis.
Maintain and update media contact databases and distribution lists, including by proactively researching and adding new contacts and removing out-of-date contacts.
Organize and maintain digital assets in CNPS media management platforms.
Respond to and route, inquiries received through CNPS communication channels.
Provide administrative and operational support that contributes to programmatic goals and priorities.
Contribute to additional Public Affairs initiatives and special projects as assigned.

Benefits

100% coverage of employee premiums for health (Kaiser or Anthem), life, dental, and vision insurance.
401(k) plan with up to 6% matching contributions, available immediately upon employment.
Flexible Spending Account (FSA), Health Savings Account (HSA), Dependent Care Account (DCA), and Transportation Savings Account (TSA).
13 holidays, 12 sick/wellness days, and 10 vacation days.
12 weeks of supplemental, paid parental leave, after one year of employment.
CNPS-issued laptop, a $750 home office stipend, and a $60/month telework stipend.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
Annual budget of $500 and 32 hours for professional development opportunities.
Attendance at semiannual staff team-building events.
Complimentary CNPS Society membership.