Communications Coordinator

What You’ll Do

Content Development & Digital Communications (35%) 

• 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.

Chapter Communications Support (25%) 

• 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.

Media Relations Support (20%) 

• 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contact databases and distribution lists, including by proactively researching and adding new contacts and removing out-of-date contacts.

Administrative & Operational Support (20%) 

• 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.

Physical Requirements  

• This role is primarily performed in an office or remote work environment and requires prolonged computer use.
• Occasional travel within California may be required, including participation in events and field trips that may involve walking on uneven terrain.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Additional Information  

• This is a full-time, non-exempt position.
• Standard working hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM.
• Some evening and weekend work will be required to support meetings, events, or organizational priorities.
• This hybrid role requires regular participation in Sacramento-area meetings and team activities while also supporting remote work. One or more in-office days per week should be expected.
• Periodic travel within California is required and reimbursed according to CNPS policies.

What Success Looks Like (First 6-12 Months)   

• Consistently contribute high-quality content across CNPS communications channels.
• Supports timely and effective media outreach efforts that increase visibility of CNPS priorities.
• Coordinates successful Chapter volunteer communications meetings and trainings.
• Provides responsive support to volunteers and staff using communication tools and platforms.
• Maintains organized communications assets, media contacts, and project workflows.
• Builds collaborative relationships across CNPS programs and with Chapter volunteers.

Who You Are

Communications & Content Development 

• 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.

Digital Communications Skills 

• 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.

Collaboration & Project Coordination 

• 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.

Mission Alignment 

• 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.