Assistant Manager, Social Media

TITLE: Assistant Manager, Social Media 
DEPARTMENT: External Affairs & Marketing 
REPORTS TO:  Director, Brand & Content Marketing 
STATUS: Full-time, Exempt 
SALARY: $60,000 


SUMMARY

Are you a social media expert with an agency background who is skilled in turning creative ideas into impactful campaigns? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where every post has the potential to make a real-world impact? Shedd Aquarium is looking for a passionate Assistant Manager, Social Media to take the reins in amplifying our voice across social platforms, driving engagement, and sharing our mission with the world. 

As a key player in our marketing team, you’ll be responsible for executing innovative, data-driven social media strategies that elevate Shedd's brand and conservation efforts. You’ll have the opportunity to collaborate across departments, manage dynamic campaigns, and bring our story to life through creative digital content. This role is perfect for someone with agency experience who thrives on high-impact projects and wants to make a tangible difference in a mission-driven organization. 

Why Shedd? Suppose you’ve built your career in a fast-paced agency setting and are ready for your next big challenge. In that case, Shedd offers a unique opportunity to apply your social media expertise in a mission-driven environment. This is your chance to craft content that not only entertains but also educates and inspires millions of people around the world about the wonders of the aquatic world. 

What You’ll Do: 

• Lead Content Management & Execution (35%): Develop compelling, platform-optimized content across social media channels like Facebook, Instagram, & TikTok. Create videos, graphics, and copy that resonate with Shedd’s diverse audience and highlight our conservation efforts. 
• Content Strategy & Development (20%): From ideation to execution, you’ll lead social media campaigns that align with Shedd’s goals, driving engagement and expanding our online community. 
• Collaboration & Cross-Department Coordination (20%): Work closely with internal teams like Animal Care, Conservation, and Marketing to capture authentic stories and create content that resonates with our audience. 
• Analyze & Optimize (10%): Use data insights to continuously optimize content strategies and tactics, ensuring maximum reach, engagement, and performance. 
• Audience Engagement & Brand Reputation (10%): Foster meaningful interactions with Shedd’s online community, respond to inquiries, manage reviews, and maintain a positive brand reputation. 
• Additional Responsibilities (5%): Occasionally provide coverage during off-hours, mentor team members, and stay up-to-date with new digital trends. 
   

QUALIFICATIONS 

Education 

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field: Marketing, Public Relations, etc. or equivalent work experience required 

Experience 

• 3 years in social media management or digital marketing, ideally from an agency background where you’ve crafted and executed high-performing campaigns for clients. 
• Expertise in social media management tools, content creation software (Adobe Premiere, Photoshop, Canva, CapCut), and video editing. 
• Strong storytelling, copywriting, and visual content creation skills. 
• Ability to manage multiple (sometimes confidential) projects under tight deadlines. 
• Experience with social media analytics, KPIs, content optimization, and crisis management. 
• Experience working cross-functionally with internal/external stakeholders to achieve strategic goals and execute content strategies.  
• Utilizing professional English-proficiency to distill complex topics into clear, engaging ideas. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs, scheduling, & publishing tools. 

Preferred 

• Bilingual (Spanish) or multilingual skills 
• Experience working with Google Analytics, Meta Business Suite, influencers, UTMs, & applying UGC marketing tactics 
• Experience with the full cycle of strategic development: leveraging analytic insights, writing strategic briefs leading meetings, making data-driven decisions, defining objectives & deliverables, etc.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS  

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  Sit, stand, stoop and walk as needed.   

• Ability to stand for extended periods when covering events.  
• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer  
• Occasionally wear required protective gear such as boots, waders or other equipment when capturing content near or in aquatic habitats.   

  WORK ENVIRONMENT:   

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  

This person may be exposed to:  

• Moderate noise levels typical of an office or public engagement setting.   
• High-energy environments, such as live events or on-site filming with aquatic animals.   
• Controlled animal habitats, which may include humidity, water, strong odors or marine animals.   
• Wet or slippery surfaces when working near aquatic habitats or behind the scenes.   

BENEFITS WORKING AT SHEDD: We offer competitive compensation packages and opportunities for professional growth within our organization.  

• Medical Insurance, including FSA and HSA plan options 
• Vision and Dental Insurance  
• Accrued Paid Time Off  
• Up to 12 Paid Holidays  
• Life Insurance  
• Parental Leave and Adoption Assistance 
• 401(k) 
• Discounted Parking and Public Transit Subsidies 
• Employee Assistance Program 
• Employee Wellness program, including Preventive Care Incentive  
• Employee Discounts 
• Employee Tickets  

The job for which you have applied is now a union job.  All non-supervisory jobs in Development are included in the unit of employees represented by Shedd Workers United, AFSCME Counsel 31.  The union was elected in November, and we have not yet begun contract negotiations.   

Reasonable Accommodations:  
Shedd Aquarium is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need reasonable accommodations for any part of the employment process, please email us at jobs@sheddaquarium.org.  
We strongly encourage people of color, LGBTQ community, veterans and active duty military, parents, individuals with disabilities, and individuals from all cultural backgrounds to apply. Shedd Aquarium is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes everyone to our team.   

Salary : $60,000