Communications Associate

The Public Defender Association of Pennsylvania (PDAP) is hiring a Communications Associate to develop, execute and maintain internal and external communication processes and policies. As we are a quickly growing organization, this is an opportunity to have a big impact as we continue to develop. This is a part-time, grant funded remote position for someone based in Pennsylvania.  We have funding for this position through the end of 2024.

WHO WE ARE

PDAP is a statewide, non-profit association that provides training, support, and advocacy for Pennsylvania’s Public Defenders. We represent, connect, and support hundreds of Public Defenders across Pennsylvania. To learn more about our work, see our website.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

1. Strategize and execute an overall internal and external organizational communications strategy for PDAP, utilizing email, social media, graphic design, and our website to promote our trainings and resources.
2. Develop and maintain engagement strategy for current and potential PDAP members.
3. Collaborate with web design team to manage and update PDAP’s website design and content to increase usability and visibility among PA Public Defenders and the broader community.  
4. Collaborate with web design team to develop and track key communications metrics to measure success.
5. Collect, distribute, and create content for external communications.
6. Develop media relations and communication strategies for implementation by the Executive Director.
7. Prepare, develop, and  coordinate press releases, in accordance with overall media relations strategy. 
8. Keep and track data or organizational report of activity to be used in external communication strategy and for grant reporting
9. Expand PDAP’s social media presence and strategize use of platforms.  
10. Complete administrative tasks as needed, such as scheduling and supporting meetings, and events, conducting research, and other miscellaneous tasks as assigned.
11. Develop a system for sustainability of communications.  

WHO YOU ARE

You are a systems level thinker with both a passion and experience in creating and maintaining communications systems and processes at the organizational level who cares about social justice.

REQUIRED

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications or related field and/or at least two years of experience working in organizational strategic communications or equivalent communications work.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

●      Strong oral and written communication skills

●      Self-starter with problem solving skills

●      Self-motivated and able to work independently

●      Values and contributes to a diverse, inclusive workplace culture

●      Skilled in basic design work

●      Technologically savvy with an excellent command of Microsoft office suite programs, PowerPoint, Zoom, Google Drive, Canva or equivalent software

●      Values and understands indigent defense work and broader criminal justice reform

OTHER DETAILS

This is a part-time, remote position for 15 to 20 hours per week for someone who is located in Pennsylvania, with a preference for someone in the greater Philadelphia or Pittsburgh metropolitan areas. Because PDAP does not have independent office space, you will work from home. This position is grant-funded through the end of 2024.

COMPENSATION

The Communications Associate will be paid $15-$25 per hour, commensurate with experience.

TO APPLY

Email a resume or curriculum vitae and cover letter to PDAP Manager of SWIM Advocacy and Engagement Julie Hyman at Julie@PAPublicDefenders.com. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

We value a diverse and inclusive work environment where employees feel a sense of belonging and strongly encourage women, people of color, people who identify as LGBTQ, people with disabilities, people who have experienced poverty or homelessness and people who have had prior contact with the juvenile, criminal, or child welfare systems to apply.

PDAP is an equal employment opportunity employer, committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with physical and/or mental disabilities. PDAP welcomes applicants of all diverse backgrounds to apply. PDAP does not discriminate in the selection of employees on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, sexual identity, genetics, age, national origin, disability, or veteran status. In addition to federal law requirements, PDAP complies with all applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall and transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.