Position Summary: This position involves facilitating, building and maintaining positive public relations between NEA, state affiliate staff, NEA leaders and members, the news media, external partners and the general public. The incumbent uses proven messaging and positioning methodology to develop research-based, tested forms of written, verbal, broadcast, and interactive communication tools. The incumbent synthesizes information and develops advocacy tools including message frames, opinion editors, and other written documents for use by Association leaders and staff at the national, state, and local levels. The incumbent collaborates and builds confidence with NEA departments and affiliates to provide communication integration and message discipline. Essential functions include quickly assimilating multiple and varied sources of information to use in preparing clear, concise and accurate statements and responses for NEA leaders, often under short deadline. To carry out duties and responsibilities, the incumbent uses computer technology and associated software and travels extensively.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the following is provided: The position involves skill in using a personal computer; oral and written communication skills; creativity, proofreading and editing skills; use of clear and articulate speech; interpersonal skills; ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment; use of reasoning, analysis, and problem solving skills; sitting for long periods; stooping, bending, and reaching; ability to carry light materials (up to 10 pounds); and ability to travel by various conveyances, e.g., air and automobile.

Selection Criteria: Tier 1 (Essential): Proven mastery of corporate communications and experience in the development of communication plans and evaluation techniques. Proven experience with advocacy communication strategies that involve analyzing and synthesizing complex information with the intent of effectively providing accurate and concise deliverables in engaging ways to a variety of audiences. Significant experience with message development, and with writing, editing, and producing high-quality communication vehicles, including message platforms, messaging workshop materials, hands-on technical assistance tools, as well as representing the organization’s position on issues. Effective analytical, interpersonal, and customer service skills to interact with all levels of staff and governance. Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team (internal and external). Ability to handle multiple and complex tasks simultaneously under stringent timeframes and changing priorities/conditions. Successful references. TIER 2 (Significant): Proven program management experience with programs designed to increase support for public education or with large-scale campaigns related to creating public understanding of educational issues or public policy. Demonstrated experience in the development and coordination of research-driven branding and/or crisis communications. Experience in a PR agency as a consultant or in a corporate PR/marketing department and/or experience as a journalist, writer, editor or copy writer. Effective understanding of public opinion surveys, focus groups, interviews, content analysis and other research tools and/or consumer/constituent or market research expertise. TIER 3 (Desirable): Advanced studies in Political Science, Journalism, Public Policy or related field. Proven record of ongoing communications professional development and training. Knowledge of Center for Communication’s mission and strategic focus.

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Qualifications: Minimum Education Requirement: Bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, Communications, Public Relations, Information Science, Marketing, or related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and skills may be obtained. Minimum Qualifications: Five years of in-depth professional experience in strategic and organizational communications, communications with government, media, or a communications/public relations agency. Other requirements: Media experience in strategic public relations and/or message research, development, and delivery. Ability to work evenings and weekends. Work samples demonstrating the ability to analyze, research, write, edit, and deliver messaging tools may be required t the time of the interview. Extensive travel required (up to 45-90 overnights per year).