Communication Specialist

This full-time position is responsible for video production, photography, and graphic design for the UF/IFAS Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants. This position will work independently and in collaboration with the Center’s communication team and subject matter experts. This team member will have the opportunity to learn about invasive plant management and research in Florida’s freshwater systems and natural areas. They will create science communication resources that support our mission for developing and disseminating strategies that address the impact of invasive plants.

We are looking for a person interested in gaining a multifaceted communication experience including, but not limited to:

• Connecting with natural resource function and management
• Exposure to applied research
• Graphic design
• Photography
• Podcast production
• Videography
• Writing and copy editing

Job responsibilities include:

-Assisting the communications manager with outreach materials and projects

-Collecting and creating content related to the invasive and native plants found in Florida’s natural areas

-Collaborating with faculty, staff, and students on research related projects

-Attending conferences to promote the Center’s communication resources

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE JOB

-Videography: Leads in producing video content related to the Center’s research, invasive plant impacts, and highlighting plant species found in Florida’s natural areas. This includes maintaining the Center’s YouTube channel. Incumbent utilizes wide latitude of independent judgment regarding need, content, editorial policy, quality standards, peer review and production demands for materials produced and distributed by the Center’s communication materials.

-Photography: Photographs invasive and native plant species as well as research efforts at the Center and in the field. This includes editing and maintaining the Center’s photo collection and online database. Selects and edits high-quality photos for use in media. Handle photo and copyright issues and content.

-Multimedia Production: Responsible for the design and production of outreach materials. This includes graphic design, science communication, podcast production, and acting as liaison with print houses and the UF-IFAS bookstore; overseeing the final printing/production of materials. Incumbent will help develop aesthetic and graphic standards for projects. This includes maintaining consistency of content and standards on communication channels. Conducts final review and approval before communications are released.

-Internally collaborate with faculty, staff, and students to identify stories and information that highlights work conducted at the Center. Oversee communication assistants’ day-to-day duties in collaboration with the communications manager, as well as other responsibilities assigned by communications manager as needed.

-Maintain organization of the communication equipment and onsite storage facility.

-Travel to conferences and workshops to promote the Center’s resources.   Driving will be required to field locations to obtain photographs, video, and collect other information.  Other duties as assigned.

$50,000.00 - Commensurate with experience, skills, and education. 

 Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area and one year of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Master’s degree in communication, journalism, or plant science. Previous involvement with science communication or natural resource management is preferred, but not necessary. 

OTHER CHARACTERISTICS OF THE POSITION

• Candidates should be able to plan, organize and coordinate work assignments independently and work as part of a team toward organizational objectives
• Candidates should have demonstrated skills in photo, video, graphic design, and/or podcast production. Adobe Suite preferred.
• Candidates should have a willingness to learn new communication skills
• Candidates should have either a background or strong interest in natural resources
• Position requires travel to field locations to obtain photographs, video, and collect other information (e.g., plant samples, local information), often requiring extensive walking in rough terrain or traveling in boats. Position requires ability to work in variable environmental conditions. Must be able to lift 50 lbs. and load heavy items for workshops and conferences.
• Internal contacts usually relate to website utilization, informational assistance to faculty and staff, personnel interactions, reports, and general operation of the Center’s Communication Office.
• External contacts include answering and referring questions from resource managers, state agency personnel, county extension agents, researchers, students, and members of the general public about aquatic and invasive plants and related issues; handling requests for use of photographs and line drawings copyrighted by the Center. 

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter and resume.  Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.