Digital Communications Specialist, Political Affairs

OVERALL FUNCTION

The Digital Communications Specialist, Political Affairs will lead digital communications efforts for EDF’s Political Affairs team, writing, editing, producing, and capturing video and still content for key digital media platforms. This role will support project management on a variety of digital communication campaigns including coordinating with EDF’s Marketing and Communications Team, Political Affairs staff and partners. The Communications Specialist’s goal will be to help the communications team create impactful digital media content, contributing to the work of developing and implementing a message that supports EDF’s mission.

The Digital Communications Specialist will report to the Senior Communications Manager, Advocacy and work as part of the Political Affairs communications team, helping to achieve EDF and EDF Action’s policy objectives. The position will be hybrid, based in Washington, D.C.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Leverage approved messages to implement a video-first, multi-platform social media strategy to support the policy goals of the Political Affairs team. 
• Respond to breaking news and legislative events with creative digital content using photography, vertical video content creation, video editing tools, including new mobile-specific software or apps that are geared towards specific mobile platforms.
• Monitor social media trends, current news, and popular culture to adapt strategies to increase reach and engagement.
• Design graphics for use in social media and other materials.
• Participate in advancing EDF Diversity, Equity and Inclusion goals in which people from all backgrounds and experiences feel connected, included, and empowered to address the environmental and organizational challenges in alignment with EDF’s values.
• Draft social media copy for the Political Affairs team and coalition partners and other materials as needed.
• Support digital communication requests from the EDF legislative, field and state-based teams.
• Provide strategic guidance for digital tactics for communications plans for campaign and program activities.
• Analyze and create reports on the effectiveness of social media campaigns to keep the organization and partners informed.
• Monitor and analyze activity across all social platforms including but not limited to Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok and YouTube to ensure we are responding to political opportunities and threats.
• Assist with paid advertising campaigns and the organization of related elements.
• Additional relevant responsibilities as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate degree or equivalent in a relevant field, with at least 3 years of experience developing, managing, and executing digital communications strategies preferably in the advocacy context.  A Bachelor's degree or equivalent may substitute for up to 2 years of relevant experience. College, non-working and internship experience will be considered.
• Strong video and graphic production skills and experience.
• Experience managing scheduling processes using social media platforms and tools.
• Excellent writing, proofing and editing skills with the ability to translate complex policy ideas for a variety of audiences.
• Demonstrates self-awareness, cultural competency and inclusivity, and ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across diverse cultures and backgrounds.
• Ability to adapt to frequent change and prioritize multiple tasks effectively under deadline pressure.
• Willingness to occasionally work irregular hours to capture and produce content and get digital media content online.
• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational skills.

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Background or strong knowledge of climate and energy issues and their political context.
• Practical, real-world experience in environmental, political, legislative or advocacy media and communications.
• Experience producing content in Kapwing and Adobe’s suite of products.
• Experience working on local and/or statewide digital communications campaigns.