Job Description

Writing Associate, Public Interest Network:
Organization:
The Public Interest Network includes U.S. PIRG, Environment America, Green Corps and other organizations that engage in research, advocacy, grassroots organizing and litigation to win positive changes for our environment and our society. We are tackling some of the key issues facing the country right now including health care, global warming and alternative energy.

Public Interest GRFX is the in-house communications team for the Public Interest Network. We write and edit text, design publications and online content, build websites, and produce video content in order to enlarge our base, build public support and generate grassroots action for our network.

The job:

You'll help our groups figure out where people are at on an issue, then craft a story and message that will inspire their audience to e-mail the governor or write a check in support of an urgent campaign.

You’ll tell that story across a variety of online and print projects, including e-mail alerts, newsletters, fundraising appeals, posters, brochures and websites. In many instances, you’ll be the primary author of these pieces, taking them from the concept stage to completion. But just as often, you’ll serve as the editor and sharpen up text written by others.

You'll serve as the primary creative point person on communications for at least half a dozen of our groups, working closely with the organizations' issue advocates, field organizers and other staff. You’ll manage each project from start to finish, from message development to arrival, working closely with our team of graphic designers on the print or online layout.

LOCATION
Boston, MA (downtown) or Philadelphia, PA

REQUIREMENTS
You can get your head around complex issues, write clearly and persuasively, and manage multiple projects.
You have at least a year’s experience writing for publication – at the campus newspaper, writing newsletters and emails for a group you volunteer with, or similar relevant experience.
You have experience volunteering or working for an issue or cause you feel passionate about.

BASIC SKILLS
Writing and editing: Able to write to an audience with a strong command of grammar, logic and narrative.
Efficiency.
Computer aptitude: Must be able to learn technical skills quickly. Experience with InDesign, Photoshop, Excel, Flash and Dreamweaver a plus.

PROBLEM-SOLVING
Project management: Able to plan and juggle multiple projects, tasks and deadlines.
Creative: Able to anticipate or define a problem, brainstorm solutions, propose or decide on a course of action, and follow through.
Thinking on your feet: Able to respond to unexpected challenges with confidence.

PEOPLE SKILLS
Good listener, collaborative worker.
Articulate: Able to make a persuasive case.

RESPONSIBILITY

Self-directed: Can take the ball and run with it.
Accountable: Respects goals, budgets and deadlines.
Result-oriented: Evaluates own work and expects to be evaluated by others on the basis of concrete results.

COMMITMENT
Enthusiasm: This is more than a 9 to 5 job. We deliver what we promise and take the time to do it right.
Leadership-track: We want people who are eager to take on more so they can expand the scope and impact of their work.

TRAINING
A 2-day orientation when you start.
A 3-day team-wide training twice a year.
Opportunities throughout the year to cross-train with the rest of our network’s staff. Ongoing training through interaction and feedback from your staff director and others.

SALARY AND BENEFITS
Salary for this position ranges from $23,750 up. Salary for this position is commensurate with relevant professional experience. A competitive benefits package includes health care coverage, educational loan assistance, a retirement plan and paid vacation and sick days. Opportunities for advancement, travel and additional training are available.
How to Apply:
To apply, e-mail your cover letter and résumé to Jesse Littlewood at grfxjobs@publicinterestnetwork.org. We'll carefully consider your application and if we think you're a good fit, we'll be in touch.

The Public Interest Network is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, sex, age, handicap, pregnancy, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

This is a Work for Progress recruitment campaign conducted on behalf of the Public Interest Network.