What are the responsibilities and job description for the Communications Specialist position at Kansas Action for Children?
Kansas Action for Children seeks a Communication Specialist to lead content creation, development, and execution of our digital engagement strategy and manage our digital platforms, including the website and social media channels. This role is focused on audience engagement through compelling writing, content creation, social media management, and growing capacity in other digital means.
We’re looking for someone with a passion for storytelling, strong technical skills in digital and social media, and a commitment to helping us connect with new audiences.
This position reports to the Sr. Communications Manager. This position is represented by Communication Workers of America Local 6400 and is a bargaining unit position.
Key Responsibilities:
Outreach
- Strategically builds KAC’s outreach capacity through targeted engagement, list building, and communication tools to reach communities across Kansas.
- Uses engagement strategies to effectively leverage the public to further policy priorities of KAC and its signature projects.
- Manages organizational contact database and creates lists for targeted engagement.
Digital Media
- Creates content – such as text, graphics, and videos – for KAC social media channels, e-blasts, website, and more.
- Monitors social media channels for engagement and necessary responses.
- Builds presence on additional platforms to engage new audiences.
- Establishes and maintains a social media content calendar, ensuring timely and relevant posts.
Content Creation
- Creates and publishes engaging, platform-optimized content to expand reach and increase engagement.
- Develops and executes targeted paid campaigns that align with organizational objectives, such as awareness building and acquiring public input.
- Participates in the development, distribution, and maintenance of print and electronic collateral, including, but not limited to, newsletters, brochures, and KAC’s website.
- Regularly manages and refreshes website content, including blog posts, legislative updates, data, and more.
- Engages in the development of publications, including strategy, proofreading, design, and digital circulation.
Design
- Uses Canva, Adobe Illustrator/Photoshop/InDesign, and/or comparable design programs to support communications in fliers, brochures, maps, newsletters, and social media graphics.
- Assists in the production of designed materials and collateral for KAC events, meetings, and gatherings.
- Creates and maintains standard materials for use in PowerPoint, Word, and other software as needed.
Qualifications:
- 1-3 years experience in communications, design, external relations, or related role.
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Marketing, Digital Media, Communications, or a related field is preferred.
- Writing, editing, and public speaking skills with a proven ability to convey complex issues in a clear, direct, and engaging style. Verbal and/or written communication skills in a language other than English are a plus.
- Proactive self-starter able to independently move projects forward, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in collaboration with team members. Exceptional organizational and time management skills, with a proven ability to take ownership of multiple projects.
- Proficient in design programs, like Canva, Adobe Illustrator/Photoshop/InDesign, and/or comparable.
- Thorough understanding of digital strategy involving LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and more.
- Willingness to work in an adaptive, engaged, collaborative work environment.
- Working knowledge of state government, especially legislative and administrative processes that shape policy. If none exists, there is a strong commitment to learning about it and the issues that affect children and families.
- Deep commitment to race, equity, and inclusion as evident through efforts to improve health, education, and economic opportunity for Kansas children and families of color.
Time Commitment and Expectations
This is a full-time position and requires a Kansas residency. Kansas Action for Children follows a hybrid work structure, allowing for some remote work. This position requires an in-person presence in the Statehouse during the legislative session and in the office for specific tasks, team meetings, and formal and informal collaboration. This position may include long hours and require a flexible schedule, particularly during the legislative session.
At Kansas Action for Children, we believe in a comprehensive approach to rewarding and supporting staff. We work to balance financial stability with competitive pay and meaningful benefits – while offering unmatched schedule flexibility and mission-based work. This includes:
· Flexible Paid Time Off (available immediately upon hire)
· Retirement plan employer contribution of 3%, with 100% vesting of the match upon hire
· Health insurance coverage with generous individual and family portions paid by the organization
· Paid Family Leave
Salary : $55,000 - $57,500