Writer & Editor (R&D)
This position will be an integral member of a small team with an all-hands-on-deck philosophy to help shape and grow the Institute for Science & Policy's communications, voice, programs, and engagement. The Institute for Science & Policy is a catalyst for thoughtful dialogue, working toward solutions on society's greatest challenges with scientific thinking, empathy, and inclusivity. We engage diverse audiences, including scientists, policymakers, journalists, funders, thought leaders, community groups, and the public, while providing the tools, processes, and collaborative environment to navigate complex science and policy issues. The Institute believes that storytelling is vital to building connections, compassion, and critical thinking. We focus on climate change, energy, public health, natural resources, and human nature.
We are looking for a person who is passionate about science and its role in society and how we communicate it. This position requires adeptness at a variety of communication roles, adhering to high ethical standards, understanding the sensitivity of issues, and ensuring that the Institute maintains its reputation as trustworthy and non-partisan
We are looking for someone who can clearly communicate complex science and policy issues through a variety of storytelling and communication tactics. We are a fast-paced, collaborative environment, often working on timely issues. If you like working on wicked problems, respect diverse and divergent perspectives, and can manage multiple projects at once, then this is the job for you. We value, incorporate, and strive to do better on diversity, equity, and inclusion while working to create a welcoming space and experience. We do not advocate for specific policy positions.
The team works in a hybrid environment and flexibility is required, including at the office, at home, at the podcast studio, occasional field and travel days, and attending external events and meetings. You must have the ability to manage your own time and achieve high standards and performance with little oversight.
This position has no supervisory responsibilities.
Job Class: Full Time
Hiring Range: $55,000-$67,000
Essential Duties
- Work on a wide variety of editorial and communication projects in a science and policy environment, with a focus on writing and editing, as well as project coordination.
- Research and translate technical concepts and information into accessible content for diverse audiences, while providing context about the relevance to society.
- Co-write, develop, and edit scripts for an award-winning documentary-style podcast.
- Develop, create, and edit content for website, social media, invitations, events, speeches, presentations, videos, reports, fundraising, and more.
- Build engaged audiences using the Institute's communication channels – newsletters, website, social media, videos, and more.
- Engage with a diverse range of perspectives with empathy, knowledge, and curiosity.
- Collaborate with the team to ensure success across all programs, engagements, and other activities.
- Attend events, participate in meetings, and interact with a diverse array of people, partners, and groups (Strategic Council, museum colleagues, board members, media, elected officials, and others).
- Actively embraces and champions the museum-wide DEAI strategy.
- Follow deadlines, set ambitious goals, and adhere to ethical standards.
Minimum Qualifications/Requirements
- BSc/BA in Journalism or relevant field (science writing, communications, etc.), or equivalent work.
- 4 years' experience with science and/or policy (or relevant) content writing required.
- 3 years' experience with online platforms (websites, podcasts, social media, MailChimp, YouTube,
- Some early morning/evening/weekend work may be required.
- Some local and national travel may be required.
Application Instructions
Please include a resume and one science and/or policy writing sample (or related) that would be relevant to this role.
Please submit your materials by 6:00 p.m. MT on February 1, 2024. Applications will not be accepted after this time. DMNS reserves the right to close the position prior to this date. Applications may only be accepted electronically via the Museum's website.
