Regional Communications Specialist- Aquatics

Position Summary: The purpose of a regional communications specialist is to assist NRCS Working Lands for Wildlife (WLFW) to grow awareness of the Working Lands for Wildlife Aquatic Connectivity Framework in the Central and Eastern U.S. This position works closely with the WLFW Regional Coordinator and Aquatic Framework coordinator plus the Quail Forever communications team on a regional scale to develop news stories and generate news coverage of habitat and programmatic successes. The general focus of the position will be to generate content (news stories, press releases, social posts, and/or blog stories) about new conservation partnerships, habitat projects, voluntary landowner conservation initiatives, stream, and wetland restoration projects.

Primary Responsibilities:

In collaboration with the Working Lands for Wildlife Aquatic Framework Coordinator:

• Creates news releases, website content, and publication articles in collaboration with USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Service staff.
• Main focus of content will fall within the Working Lands for Wildlife – Aquatic Connectivity Framework region.
• Works collaboratively with contractors managing and maintaining the Landscape Partnership Portal (https://www.landscapepartnership.org/) where all content produced will be cross-posted.
• Works with the organization’s state leadership teams to source habitat successes, unique projects, and newsworthy content
• Works closely with Working Lands for Wildlife staff to create cohesive conservation messaging.
• Builds and manages relationships with journalists in his/her defined region to generate earned media coverage.
• Assesses newsworthy stories for value as internal content (journals, website, social media, etc.) and viability as a media pitch to garner external coverage for the organization’s brand, mission, and successes.
• Serves as an organizational spokesperson with the media, while coordinating interview opportunities for organization’s leaders and partners in their specific region
• Maintain/build relationships with local/regional media, in addition to various outdoor writer associations.
• Maintain the highest code of conservation ethics.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Associate or Bachelor degree in public relations, communications, marketing, or a related field preferred

• Excellent oral, public speaking, and written communication skills.

• Ability to work independently as well as in a dynamic team environment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to multi-task and hit deadlines.
• Ag industry knowledge and experience in aquatic habitat restoration/management is preferred.

Compensation:  Starting salary and benefits commensurate with experience. Range: $53,000-60,000 annually.

Reports To: Jared Wiklund, Quail Forever Director of Communications and Josselyn Lucas, WLFW Aquatic Framework Coordinator. If you have questions about the position, please contact Jared at 651-209-4953.

Location: The position will be based in the Working Lands for Wildlife – Aquatic Connectivity Framework (ACF) 15-state geography, preferably located in NC, TN, or VA, to facilitate a close working relationship with the ACF coordinator. This position will work from their home office, with various travel requirements throughout the year.

To Apply: Please combine your cover letter, resume and three references in a Word document or PDF file before uploading to the “Resume” area of your application on our Recruitment website at www.pheasantsforever.org/jobs .  The cover letter should share why you are interested in the position and should not exceed one page. 

For more information:  Contact Jared Wiklund, QF Director of Communications at jwiklund@pheasantsforever.org or 651-209-4953.

Pheasants Forever, Inc is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as a qualified individual with disability, or any other category that may be protected by law.