Communications Specialist | Hybrid Role | Room to Grow

Job Title: Communications Specialist

Reports To: Marketing Recruiting Director and COO

Location: Madison, WI (Hybrid options available)

Employment Type: Full-Time

About Community Living Communications (CLC)

Community Living Communications (CLC) is a mission-driven nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals in leading independent and fulfilling lives. As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, we are expanding our team to strengthen our outreach, engagement, and brand presence. We are looking for a dynamic and strategic Communications Specialist who is eager to grow into a managerial role.

Position Summary

The Communications Specialist will be responsible for managing internal and external messaging, brand image, and organizational communication. This role requires strong writing and digital marketing skills to enhance CLC's visibility and engagement. The ideal candidate will have 3-5 years of experience in communications, marketing, or public relations and a strong ability to translate CLC's mission into compelling narratives.

Key Responsibilities

Content Creation & Management

• Develop and distribute newsletters, website, email communications, and social media content.
• Craft engaging content for multiple platforms, including donor appeals and print materials.
• Manage monthly internal and external e-newsletters, employee updates, and e-blasts.

Brand Management

• Ensure consistent brand messaging across all platforms.
• Strategically develop long-term communication plans aligned with organization goals.
• Maintain a photo database for media use.

Internal Communications

• Share organizational updates, policies, and employee recognition across the team.
• Assist in developing clear messaging for leadership and program teams.

Event Planning & Community Outreach

• Organize public events, corporate events, and community outreach programs, including job fairs for outreach and recruiting.
• Represent CLC at public events and networking opportunities.
• Manage outreach partnerships and memberships.

Development & Fundraising Communications

• Manage ongoing fundraising campaigns utilizing omnichannel communication strategies.
• Manage donor communications and engagement via Little Green Light.

Social Media Strategy & Digital Marketing

• Build and execute strategies for social media engagement, content, and community interaction, with an emphasis on recruiting.
• Analyze social media and digital marketing efforts for optimization.

Website Management and Optimization

• Manage website content and updates in Squarespace.
• Monitor SEO and implement new strategies.
• Lead and manage an upcoming website redesign.

Job Posting & Advertising

• Craft and manage paid media campaigns, including online ads, print materials, and radio or TV spots.
• Write and post job descriptions across multiple job boards.
• Manage job postings via ATS and oversee job platform performance.
• Manage paid campaigns with multimedia organizations, including Spectrum, Indeed, and ZipRecruiter.

Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related field preferred, but not required.
• 3-5 years of experience in a communications or marketing role
• Strong writing and editing skills with the ability to create compelling narratives.
• Experience managing social media platforms and digital marketing strategies.
• Knowledge of media relations, press release writing, and public relations best practices.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and engage with diverse communication requirements.
• Highly organized with strong project management skills and attention to detail.
• Experience with design tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite), website management (WordPress, Squarespace), donor platforms (Little Green Light) and email platforms (MailChimp, Constant Contact) is a plus.
• A passion for community service and a commitment to CLC's mission.
• Skills in strategic thinking, public speaking, and brand strategy.
• Proficiency in managing and analyzing social media campaigns, SEO, and online engagement.
• Creativity in crafting compelling narratives and visual content to engage audiences.

Growth & Leadership Potential

This role is designed for a communications professional looking to take the next step in their career. The Communications Specialist will have opportunities to lead projects, contribute to strategic planning, and potentially transition into a Communications Manager role as CLC continues to grow.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $45,000 - $55,000, based on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Paid time off, holidays, and professional development opportunities.
• Hybrid work options and a collaborative, mission-driven team environment.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit an online application. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Candidates should be prepared to provide portfolio examples of their design and content creation work.

Join us in making a meaningful impact in our community through powerful storytelling and strategic communications!

A criminal background check is required. Prior to the background check being conducted, the applicant will be required to
complete disclosure and authorization forms authorizing the Company to conduct
specific background checks. This authorization will be made in either electronic or
written form and will remain valid throughout the employee's employment with the
Company, if hired as allowed by applicable law.
Background checks will be kept confidential and will only be shared with individuals who
have a business need to review the information to make employment decisions.
Reports will be retained in accordance with the Company's document retention
procedures and federal and state regulations.