Science Communication Specialist

May 2018

The S.C. Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) is looking for an early-career science communicator to join its outreach team. This position will work closely with the Marine Resources Division’s media and communication coordinator to share the division’s research, education, and fisheries management stories with nontechnical audiences.

About SCDNR’s Marine Resources Division: The SCDNR Marine Resources Division’s mission is to serve as the advocate for and steward of the state’s marine resources. Studying everything from algae to tiger sharks, our staff of biologists, fisheries managers, and educators work to protect and conserve South Carolina’s coastal waters and wildlife for future generations. Learn more at DNR.SC.GOV.

Location: This position is based at the SCDNR Marine Resources Center in Charleston, SC.

Responsibilities:

Work closely with media coordinator and research staff to produce print, video, audio, and web products for research projects and outreach campaigns as needed
Assist with long-term and weekly development of social media strategy and content
Analyze social media metrics and identify opportunities to better engage with audience
Report, write, and edit regular stories for S.C. Coastal Resources blog
Maintain photo/video library and join research staff in the field to update collections as needed

Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree (or coursework leading to degree) in communication and/or science field(s)
Excellent writing and copyediting skills, with experience writing about scientific topics for a general audience
Knowledge of or willingness to learn about marine biology and natural resource science
Proficiency in writing for social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
Ability to work collaboratively to achieve shared goals and outcomes
Photography, videography, and/or graphic design experience a plus

Hours/Pay: Hours worked will not exceed 40/week. Pay is $10/hr.

Contact: Interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, three samples of writing and/or visual work (published preferred), and three professional references to Erin Weeks at weekse@dnr.sc.gov with “Science Communication Specialist” in the subject line. Application deadline is May 25, 2018.