SEIU Local 99

Communication Specialist I & II

Based in Los Angeles, CA

 

DEFINITION: 
The Communication Specialist I is responsible for providing strong writing, editing and messaging support to the union’s campaigns, programs and projects. The Communication Specialist II contributes advanced skills and strategy, is responsible for specific campaigns and ongoing union communications.

TYPICAL DUTIES:

• Writes, edits, and designs regular leaflets and newsletters 
• Reports and writes for quarterly magazine, newsletters, website, e-mail updates and other mediums
• Helps write brochures, posters and other similar materials 
• Provides campaign communications support, including messaging, communication plans, timely materials, website copy, etc. (The II is the communicator on point for (a) campaign(s))
• Writes news releases, fact sheets, op-eds, talking points, and other press materials
• Pitches stories to media, coordinates of media events and identifies and prepares spokespersons
• Assists with website maintenance and writes email updates and web copy
• Assists with photography and video
• Provides support to the Communications Committee
• Walks door-to-door, telephones or lobbies voters and/or elected officials about candidates and issues consistent with Local 99’s electoral and legislative program
• Moves the agenda and programs of SEIU, including participating in rallies and other activities supported or hosted by the Local
• Submits Local 99 administrative reports such as Activity Reports, auto insurance, HelpDesk tickets, Outlook calendar scheduling, etc.
• Other duties as assigned

ADDITIONAL TYPICAL DUTIES FOR II:

• Develops, plans and leads communication campaigns and projects for organizing, legislation, issue advocacy, collective bargaining and other union programs, including strategies and timelines
• Works with campaign staff to develop messaging, strategy, materials and plans for both internal and external audiences, including framing messages for effective communication with union members, the news media, general public, and other working people and allies
• Writes letters to the editor, speeches, paid advertisements, and other materials
• Develops and implements earned and paid media strategies, including identifying and pitching stories to media, identifying and preparing workers and other allies to talk with the news media; planning and organizing media events
• Continuously develops, maintains, and strengthens relationships with reporters, pundits, producers and editorial decision makers at targeted media outlets

DISTINGUISING CHARACTERISTICS AMONG RELATED CLASSES
The Communication Specialist I & II mainly concentrates on message development, copy writing, and campaign planning. The Communications Design Specialist I & II focuses on visual messaging, including assisting with message development and creating materials, graphics, videos, etc. to support message.

SUPERVISION
Works under the supervision of the Communications Manager and is in the Communications Department.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:

• Adobe Photoshop, InDesign and Get Active / Blue State Digital a plus

Ability to:

• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral and confidence in writing, editing and design abilities
• Project the union’s message with self-confidence
• Interview and utilize analytical communication skills
• Work quickly and efficiently under pressure and tight deadlines and conflicting demands while maintaining a team atmosphere
• Work independently in a competent and professional manner, implementing SEIU's overall goals and expectations
• Interact with diverse staff and members within a labor organization 
• Speak, write, read and translate in Spanish highly desirable

For II Additional Ability to:

• Strong skills and experience in framing issues for specific audiences and developing simple and effective advocacy materials 
• Lead, teach and train other colleagues including communication staff and field staff

ENTRANCE QUALIFICATIONS 
Education:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university and/or prior communications experience

Experience:

• At least one year in campaign communications, labor communications, public affairs, community organizing, journalism or related fields
• Familiarity with labor / community organizing

Additional Experience for II:

• Two or more years in campaign communications, labor communications, public affairs, journalism, or other related experience.

REQUIREMENTS

• Strong commitment to progressive social change and activism and understands and commits to SEIU Local 99’s members and mission
• Excellent communication skills and demonstrated experience in performing pro-active media outreach and generating positive media coverage
• Maintain a valid Driver’s License, current auto insurance, and reliable automobile
• Work long, varied hours including evenings and some weekends 

CLASSIFICATION: Exempt, Salaried, Bargaining Unit

This job description is not a complete statement of essential functions, responsibilities, or requirements. Requirements are representative of the minimum level of knowledge, skill, and abilities. Management retains the discretion to add or change typical duties of a position at any time.

Salary and Benefits: The current salary range is $86,053.73 – $99,933.22 and is based on qualifications and experience. SEIU Local 99 offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package. Including fully employer-paid family health coverage (including domestic partners and dependents), life insurance, a defined-benefit pension plan, 401(k) plan, auto stipend and generous paid leave time. 

To Apply:
Send cover letter and résumé to: emeline@hradvisors.com