Strategic Communications Specialist

Strong writer? Stronger curiosity? The National Geographic Society (NGS) has a press release with your name on it.

Reporting to the Senior Manager, Strategic Communications, the Strategic Communications Specialist is a member of the Strategic Communications team and supports NGS by amplifying the work of our Explorers and Impact initiatives. This role thinks critically about how to amplify our programs, impact, and vision to global audiences using a mix of communication tools, platforms, and tactics, working closely with all teams within the broader Communications, Marketing and Brand team.

Please note: submission of a cover letter is required. A writing sample is encouraged.

Strategic communications planning and execution (50%)

• Assist in the development of integrated, strategic, and proactive external communications strategies that elevate the Society's Explorers, programmatic work, and mission.
• Develop, edit, and publish content for the Society's various communications channels, including press releases, blog posts, and talking points.
• Create comprehensive press kits that include branded images and caption usage requirements.

Media relations and outreach (20%)

• Monitor news coverage, maintain the team's press tracker, monitor the pressroom inbox, post press releases, and field media inquiries.
• Secure media coverage for programmatic announcements, Explorers, and thought leadership initiatives.
• Compile targeted media lists, draft pitches, and prepare detailed briefing documents for interviews and events.
• Support media training sessions for the community of Explorers and the Society's leadership team.

Operations and administrative support (20%)

• Provide essential team support by maintaining calendar invites and project timelines, tracking deadlines, preparing agendas, and distributing meeting notes.
• Maintain organized folder structures for press materials, contracts, and assets, and manage version control on shared documents.

Partnership and stakeholder relationship management (10%)

• Serve as a communications liaison with the Society's community of Explorers to handle inquiries related to brand engagement, media support, and scientific papers.
• Liaise with program teams for communications requests and key moments.

What you'll bring

• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• 3+ years of experience working in a communications-related field.
• Strong communicator and writer, knowledge of AP Style preferred.
• Detail-oriented, organized, and capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously, sometimes with tight deadlines.
• Experience pitching media, working with the press, and familiarity with print, broadcast, and digital outlets.
• A quick and motivated learner with enthusiasm for the Society's mission, a proactive self-starter, and a creative problem solver.

Location: Hybrid, based in Washington, DC. Hybrid staff work at Base Camp two days each week (Tuesday and Wednesday). Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States; this position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Salary: $70,300 - $74,000 per year, plus a comprehensive benefits package.

Posted by: Emily Kelly, Senior Manager, Strategic Communications