Communications Specialist

Feeding San Diego•San Diego, CA

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Communications Specialist plays a key role on Feeding San Diego’s Marketing & Communications team, helping elevate our mission, strengthen trust in our work, and expand awareness of our hunger relief programs across San Diego County. In this role, you will partner closely with the Director of Communications & Content to plan, develop, and execute strategic communications campaigns that educate, inspire, and mobilize our internal and external audiences. This position supports all facets of our communications strategy—from shaping media outreach and crafting compelling stories to driving clear, consistent internal messaging that keeps our teams informed and aligned. You’ll thrive here if you excel in a fast-paced environment, can independently manage projects from concept to completion, and are eager to collaborate across departments to amplify our impact. We’re seeking a creative, thoughtful communicator who is passionate about storytelling, skilled at engaging diverse audiences, and committed to upholding our reputation as a trusted, community-centered nonprofit. If you’re motivated by mission-driven work and energized by both strategy and execution, we’d love to have you on our team.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience, particularly in journalism, public relations, communications, or marketing
Minimum two years of experience as a communications specialist, public relations specialist or a similar role in communications.
Strong understanding of corporate communication principles, media relations, public relations and crisis communication strategies
Strong interpersonal and networking skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships
High level of creativity and strategic thinking, with the ability to develop innovative communication solutions.
Excellent writing, editing and proofreading skills, with attention to detail and accuracy
Strong organizational and project management skills
Capability to work independently or collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
Ability to handle confidential information with utmost integrity and discretion
Adeptness to work under pressure and handle crisis communication
The ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously and efficiently
Microsoft 365 experience
Asana, Smartsheet, Basecamp or other project management system experience
Act as a collaborative team player who can take constructive feedback on their work and adjust accordingly
Ability to understand organizational needs, including general business strategy, industry issues, key stakeholders, and giving trends
Must have reliable transportation and possess and maintain a valid California driver’s license, a satisfactory driving record, including proof of personal vehicle insurance coverage and insurability under the Agency’s insurance carrier standards.

Nice To Haves

Experience working cross functionally with teams in a non-profit setting (development, programs, volunteer, etc.)
Existing non-profit experience working in marketing and communications

Responsibilities

Proactively pitch media outlets, focusing on compelling storytelling that highlights Feeding San Diego’s mission, programs, executive team, and impact in the community
Help field reactive media requests, using independent judgement to make recommendations shaping the story, including on spokespersons and locations
Draft press materials including press releases, pitches, media advisories, talking points, statements, and briefing documents; conduct research and informational interviews to get information needed
Build and maintain strong relationships with journalists at local, regional, and national outlets, investing time outside of media segments to learn more about the local media landscape and reporters’ beats
Collaborate cross departmentally to gather information and ensure accurate and timely communication
Support the coordination and execution of press conferences, media briefings, and other public relations events; interact with high level elected officials and partners
Establish and maintain relationships with spokespersons throughout the network to serve as interview sources
Maintain list of sources for the organization
Maintain communication calendars and ensure timely delivery of content
Monitor and track press coverage; compile monthly performance reports and insights
Maintain updated media lists, awards tracking and other administrative duties
Proactively submit for awards and opportunities spotlighting the organization and its stakeholders, including executive team, staff, and volunteers
Provide day-to-day administrative support to the Director of Communications & Content, including calendar coordination, meeting scheduling, and documentation
Prepare internal communications for publication on company Intranet
Draft and refine executive messaging communications to employees including town halls, leadership updates, speeches, and internal announcements
Support executive positioning strategies and thought leadership initiatives
Develop coordinated messaging guidelines for communication to different employee channels across the network
Ensure messaging is consistent in tone, voice, and narrative across all internal channels
Engage directly with diverse stakeholders including program participants, volunteers, food donors, and distribution partners while representing Feeding San Diego.
Show compassion and build trust to authentically capture and share stories that reflect the organization’s impact.
Collaborate with the Marketing & Communications team and align communications with Feeding America best practices.
Promote and uphold Feeding San Diego’s values in all interactions