Full-Time Science Communications Manager
Job Description
Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences is searching for a talented science writer who can navigate through seas of jargon and scientific details to compose engaging, accurate, accessible stories for nonscientists. In this role, you would translate the science of Bigelow Laboratory into stories that resonate with key public audiences and earn media coverage. Please note that we are also currently hiring a marketing communications manager, which may be of interest as well but has different required skills and experience.
Your work would play a critical role at Bigelow Laboratory – a nonprofit research institute that uses innovative, cutting-edge approaches to study the foundation of global ocean health and unlock its potential to improve the future for all life on our planet. Most of the organisms we study are microscopic in size, but their influence and potential are unmatched. Bigelow Laboratory is well known around the world for its scientific excellence, and you’d work alongside the chief communications officer to convey that excellence through the content and quality of the laboratory’s communications.
Outstanding science writing, media relations, and interpersonal skills would be key to your success – in addition to your creativity, attention to detail, and strong work ethic. This position will challenge you, inspire you, and empower you to make a difference. If you are excited by that prospect and have the proven ability to write excellent stories about complex science, we’d love to hear from you.
This is a hybrid position, and candidates will ideally be located (or be willing to relocate) within driving distance of Bigelow Laboratory’s beautiful, state-of-the-art campus in East Boothbay, Maine. However, we would be willing to consider the possibility of a fully remote position if required by an exceptional candidate unable to relocate.
This is a full-time, permanent role that offers competitive compensation commensurate with experience and a full benefits package. Local travel may occasionally be required. Hours are typically regular and constitute a 37.5-hour workweek, but some additional, evening, and weekend work may be required due to events, deadlines, or other timely reasons. The salary band for this position is $72,000 – $82,000.
Key responsibilities include:
- Interview scientists about complex science – most commonly related to microscopic ocean life and the vital processes they drive – and write compelling stories that share the importance of the work through newsletters, web stories, and magazines
- Write and distribute press releases, pitch journalists, and help strengthen and grow media relationships
- Edit and proofread to ensure the highest quality and accuracy standards are met by your work and others’ communications products
- Support the production of our biannual magazine, Transect, in addition to a wide variety of communications products – including documents, publications, presentations, videos, and promotional items
- Summarize content in engaging ways for social media and other online channels
- Manage Café Sci series of popular summer talks and maximize science communications opportunities at other events
- Help presenters prepare science talks for non-scientific audiences, providing feedback and assistance with content and delivery
- Support efforts to effectively communicate and gain media coverage for specific Bigelow Laboratory initiatives related to science, education, and philanthropy
- Take high-quality photos, and manage growth and maintenance of photo library
- Provide guidance and training to staff and students on effective communication of science to non-scientific audiences
- Execute basic graphic design tasks that meet a high professional standard, including marketing emails and printed materials
- Work alongside chief communications officer on project management and on oversight of work with outside contractors, including graphic designers, public relations agencies, illustrators, and videographers.
To be qualified for this opportunity, you must have:
- Eight years of relevant communications experience – at least five of which were focused on science writing
- Bachelor’s degree in science communications, journalism, public relations, or other relevant field
- Knowledge of marine microbiology, molecular techniques, and/or other relevant ocean research is highly preferred
- Communications experience with nonprofit or other mission-driven organization is highly preferred
- Passion for science and its ability to help us understand, sustainably use, and care for the ocean
To Apply
If your experience aligns with the responsibilities and requirements outlined above, we strongly encourage you to apply online for this exciting opportunity on our team. To do so, please upload your cover letter, resume, and the five science writing samples that best illustrate your fit for this role. For each work sample, please briefly explain your specific contributions and the roles of any others involved. The application deadline is Sunday, January 15, 2023. Interviews are expected to begin shortly afterward.
Individuals seeking more information about this position or needing to request an accommodation, please contact [email protected] or (207) 315-2567, ext. 107.
Working at Bigelow Laboratory
Bigelow Laboratory is an inclusive community of scientists from around the world that welcomes and supports diverse opinions and cultures. Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences strives to maintain an environment that allows our employees to flourish through respectful, inclusive, and equitable treatment of others. We believe there is power in embracing the full diversity of humanity to advance science and are committed to supporting each other as individuals worthy of respect. Bigelow Laboratory is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences requires that all employees be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Being fully vaccinated means that an individual is at least two weeks past their final dose of an authorized COVID-19 vaccine regimen. As a condition of employment, newly hired employees will be required to provide proof of their COVID-19 vaccination.