Communications Associate
JOB ANNOUNCEMENT
Communications Associate
About Vanguard
Vanguard Communications is a small, Hispanic woman-owned public relations firm that leverages the power of public relations and communications to educate the public about the important issues of our time. We are a diverse team of communicators who apply our range of skills, subject area expertise and innovative thinking to opportunities for our clients. We focus on causes that align with diversity, equity and inclusion; health and wellness; youth and families; social justice; education and environment, to name a few.
We work in a team-based, mostly remote work environment where motivated, creative and collaborative individuals thrive. We encourage continuous learning and mentoring, and create opportunities for team members to stretch, learn and grow. If this is the type of mission and culture that inspires you, please read on!
Job Profile
As a full-time Communications Associate, you will work with teams of professionals that provide PR and communications counsel and support to several nonprofit and government clients. Your role will include working with clients and partners, developing materials, providing logistical support, developing and tracking integrated media strategies and learning all aspects of project management and effective communication. Fluency in Spanish is a plus for this position.
As part of the Vanguard team, you will have the opportunity to support a range of communications campaigns and materials and grow to provide a full breadth of technical communications support to clients and client stakeholders. You will apply a DEI framework to all your work. The intersectionality of your professional and lived experiences from your identity communities provides valued, welcomed insights and counsel that enhance clients’ authentic communication strategies and approaches.
This position has the option of being remote or hybrid with in-person workspace available in Vanguard’s Washington, DC, office.
Responsibilities
- Aid in materials development and production, including writing, research, fact-checking, formatting and proofreading.
- Develop integrated media materials, including news releases, advisories, statements, blogs, pitch letters and content for use in digital media, such as social media messages and web copy.
- Monitor and track media to identify opportunities and coverage trends, as well as produce audience engagement reports.
- Pitch events and stories to diverse media, including racial/ethnic media, bloggers, traditional reporters and digital influencers.
- Manage and update media and contact lists via Cision.
- Provide logistic support for meetings, teleconferences, focus groups, webinars, photo shoots and other events.
- Provide technical support during meetings, including projectors, and manage virtual platforms such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom.
- Coordinate project deliverables tracking and reporting.
- Support for partner outreach and engagement.
- Attend meetings and take notes.
- Contribute to other duties as assigned or necessary.
- Travel off-site when necessary.
Requirements/Qualifications
We are looking for an enthusiastic, entrepreneurial, outgoing individual who loves communications in all its evolving forms.
- Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations or a related field (or equivalent years of experience)
- Internship experience in public relations or a related field
- Strong writer and interpersonal communicator
- Punctual, organized and skilled at multitasking in a fast-paced environment
- Proficient in Microsoft 365 apps including SharePoint, Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Teams
- Experience with Cision or similar software is a plus for this position
- Fluency in Spanish is a plus for this position
- Basic design and video skills are a plus (Canva, social media, PowerPoint)
Attributes for Success
Vanguard wants its employees to succeed, so we look for candidates who demonstrate the following values:
- People-First. To everyone with whom our work intersects, we are inclusive, respectful and accountable.
- Motivated. We make it our job to be informed, yet constantly seek ways to learn more and work smarter.
- Impactful. Because progress can be achieved by both large- and small-scale changes, we integrate both in our work.
- Truthful. Integrity and transparency define our reputation and are the backbone of client relationships.
- Friendly + Fun. We value each other’s time, talents, personalities and contributions to our culture of inclusion.
Salary and Benefits
- Salary range is $45,000–$50,000 per year, commensurate with experience.
- A Vanguard-issued laptop will be provided.
- Excellent benefits, including remote working, 401(k)/profit sharing, professional membership, professional development, paid family leave, and an employee assistance program.
Proof of COVID-19 vaccination will be required prior to employment, with accommodations made in certain circumstances.
How to Apply
Please submit a cover letter, resume, and writing sample through the “Work with Us” page on the Vanguard Communications website: www.vancomm.com/work-with-us/as-an-employee.
Vanguard Communications is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.