Title: Coordinator
Functional Title: Communications Coordinator
Category Status: Exempt Staff, Regular, Full-Time
Unit: AGNR-AES-Harry R. Hughes Center for
Agro Ecology
Home Office Location: Harry R. Hughes Center for Agro-Ecology, Queenstown, MD
Position Summary/Purpose of Position:
As Communication Coordinator for Hughes Center for Agro-Ecology, she/he will support strategic initiatives related
to public relations, social media and various areas of communications. This position will work closely with the
Director and the Assistant Director, helping to increase exposure for outreach and research efforts. The
Coordinator will be part of a small team seeking to provide leadership to promote environmentally sound and
economically viable agriculture and forestry as Maryland’s preferred land use through research, outreach and
collaboration. The position will support the Center by implementing a robust, integrated and strategic
communications plan to highlight the Center's work which focuses on farmers’ and foresters' conservation
efforts.
Responsibilities:
• Support Center by implementing a robust, integrated and strategic communications plan to showcase the
contributions to Maryland’s conservation farmers and foresters to food and fiber production.
• Develop strong relationships within the Center’s stakeholders to develop message driven themes
covering a range of topics for news releases, web stories, feature stories for newsletters and social media.
• Develop strong relationships with the media personnel including publications, radio and television and
other communication specialists. Develop and maintain updated list of communication contacts.
• Work with Center staff and independent contractors to develop and implement Center communications
strategy including print, social and digital media. Evaluate and adapt strategy as needed.
• Assist in building and streamlining social media outreach and engagement. Evaluate the success and
adapt to change when necessary.
• Participate and assist in Center’s internal and external endeavors including Board, outreach, fundraising
and event programming.
• Develop and maintain an audience specific bi monthly newsletter for diverse stakeholders.
• Develop summary content for technical reports and research sponsored by the Center for audiences
including farmers, foresters, state agencies, environmental organizations, public, funders, elected officials
and business partners.
• Work with the Center Staff to support fundraising efforts.
• Collaborate with other Center staff in annual strategic planning and budgeting efforts.
• Assess and adapt communications strategy annually.
• Coordinate with College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Communications staff.
• Participate in Board meetings and develop board reports, outreach and presentations.
• Be a team player willing to achieve the goals of the Hughes Center for Agro-Ecology.
Qualifications:
Required--
• Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent combination of training, education and experience in the area of
communications may be substituted for a degree.
• Excellent written and oral communications skills with a strong understanding of communications strategies
using a variety of audience-specific platforms.
• Familiarity with developing, digital media design and management.
• Familiarity with websites and website content management systems.
• Proficiency in basic computer software skills including Microsoft and Adobe suites.
• Working knowledge of interviewing, writing, editing, proofreading and design. Ability to manage multiple
projects of varying scale, meet deadlines and work independently.
• Strong interpersonal skills, intellectual curiosity and an open mind.
• Personal transportation and a valid driver’s license required for travel throughout the state.
Preferences–
• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism or related field.
• Two (2) year’s professional experience in a combination of the following: Communications, journalism,
marketing, technical and/or science writing, media relations and/or public relations, and graphics design.
• Knowledge of or experience in agriculture, forestry, farming culture, natural resources, 4-H and
environmental conservation is highly desired.
Physical Demands–
This position requires desk work, event planning which includes lifting and carrying tables, chairs and a variety of
presentation tools. Must be able to lift up to 50lbs and carry over short distances. Must be willing to work flexible
hours, with some evenings and weekends, and to travel statewide on a regular basis.
Salary & Benefits:
Starting salary: $40,000 - $45,000 (commensurate with experience). The University of Maryland offers an
extensive benefits package.
Applications:
All candidates must apply online at https://ejobs.umd.edu, position #119631. A complete application packet
includes a letter of application, a resume, two writing samples, copies of transcripts, and three (3) professional
references, including name, mailing address, telephone number, and e-mail address.
Closing Date: For best consideration apply before November 6, 2017.
