<div><p> </p><p>The Communications Specialist is a key member of the External Affairs function at Openlands, responsible for executing day-to-day communications activities across digital platforms and supporting donor and corporate engagement initiatives. This role focuses on social media management, website updates, email marketing, and storytelling that amplifies Openlands’ mission and strategic priorities. </p><p><br></p><p>Reporting to the Assistant Director of Communications, the Communications Specialist works closely with the Public Relations Specialist, Development, and Programmatic Teams to ensure timely, accurate, and high-quality content delivery. This is a full-time, non-exempt, hybrid position requiring occasional evening and weekend work for events. </p><p><br></p><p><strong>Essential Job Functions:</strong> </p><p><strong>Social Media</strong> <strong>Management</strong> <strong>and Content Creation</strong> </p><ul><li>Create original content in multiple formats, including images, short and long videos, social graphics, infographics, and branded materials, ensuring accessibility and cultural relevance for bilingual audiences. </li><li>Manage Openlands’ social media calendar and ensure posts reflect the organization’s brand, voice, and strategic priorities. </li><li>Plan, execute and optimize paid social media campaigns, managing budget, targeting and performance to support Openlands’ priorities.  </li><li>Collaborate with internal teams to strategize content and respond to timely opportunities to share with external audiences.  </li><li>Work closely with Program, Development, and Communications staff to gather stories, updates, and visuals. </li><li>Monitor platforms for engagement, trends, and brand sentiment; respond to comments and direct messages. </li><li>Support influencer and partner relationships through collaborative posts and cross-tagging. </li><li>Produce monthly performance reports and recommend improvements to increase reach and engagement. </li></ul><p><strong>Website Content Updates</strong> </p><ul><li>Maintain Openlands’ website, updating pages and posting new content to ensure accuracy, accessibility, and SEO compliance. </li><li>Partner with Program staff to keep Program pages updated and relevant to seasonal needs. </li><li>Track and report on website analytics to inform user experience improvements. </li><li>Coordinate with external web vendors to address technical issues and performance needs. </li></ul><p><strong>E-Mail Marketing</strong> </p><ul><li>Build and distribute email campaigns, including monthly newsletters, Program updates, action alerts, and event invitations.  </li><li>Partner with the Development staff to support online fundraising campaigns (e.g., Spring Giving, Year-End Giving). </li><li>Implement tracking codes to measure campaign performance and create monthly reports on email engagement and impact. </li><li>Maintain email list hygiene and ensure accurate integration with the CRM system. </li></ul><p><strong>Internal Communications</strong> </p><ul><li>Assist with onboarding processes for new staff and board members, including email signatures, website updates, and internal communications access.  </li><li>Update and maintain brand resources and communications templates. </li><li>Support scheduling and logistics for internal communications trainings. </li></ul><p><strong>Collaboration,</strong> <strong>Analytics &amp; Reporting</strong> </p><ul><li>Elaborate monthly reports on social media, website, and email performance. </li><li>Track key metrics to inform strategy and demonstrate ROI for communications efforts. </li><li>Analyze social media and media outreach metrics, providing insights to improve performance and storytelling. </li><li>Collaborate on campaigns and strategy to ensure Openlands is reaching and engaging bilingual audiences effectively. </li></ul><p>Other duties as assigned  </p></div><div><p> <strong>Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities</strong> </p><ul><li>Strong commitment to Openlands’ mission, values, and equity-centered approach. </li><li>Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, or related field. </li><li>3-5 years of experience in social media, communications, marketing, or fundraising. </li><li>Excellent written and verbal communication skills. </li><li>Proficiency in social media platforms and management tools (e.g., Hootsuite). </li><li>Experience with Capcut, WordPress, Canva, Constant Contact, and other content creation tools.  </li><li>Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for travel to program sites and events.  </li><li>Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple deadlines. </li><li>Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders. </li><li>Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite. </li></ul><p><strong>Preferred:</strong> </p><ul><li>Master’s degree or additional certifications in communications or digital marketing. </li><li>Salesforce CRM experience. </li><li>Spanish language proficiency (written and oral). </li><li>Knowledge of conservation, environmental justice, or nonprofit sectors. </li></ul><p><strong>COVER LETTER AND RESUME REQUIRED</strong></p></div><div>Job Type</div><div>Full-time</div><div><p> </p><p>The Communications Specialist is a key member of the External Affairs function at Openlands, responsible for executing day-to-day communications activities across digital platforms and supporting donor and corporate engagement initiatives. This role focuses on social media management, website updates, email marketing, and storytelling that amplifies Openlands’ mission and strategic priorities. </p><p><br></p><p>Reporting to the Assistant Director of Communications, the Communications Specialist works closely with the Public Relations Specialist, Development, and Programmatic Teams to ensure timely, accurate, and high-quality content delivery. This is a full-time, non-exempt, hybrid position requiring occasional evening and weekend work for events. </p><p><br></p><p><strong>Essential Job Functions:</strong> </p><p><strong>Social Media</strong> <strong>Management</strong> <strong>and Content Creation</strong> </p><ul><li>Create original content in multiple formats, including images, short and long videos, social graphics, infographics, and branded materials, ensuring accessibility and cultural relevance for bilingual audiences. </li><li>Manage Openlands’ social media calendar and ensure posts reflect the organization’s brand, voice, and strategic priorities. </li><li>Plan, execute and optimize paid social media campaigns, managing budget, targeting and performance to support Openlands’ priorities.  </li><li>Collaborate with internal teams to strategize content and respond to timely opportunities to share with external audiences.  </li><li>Work closely with Program, Development, and Communications staff to gather stories, updates, and visuals. </li><li>Monitor platforms for engagement, trends, and brand sentiment; respond to comments and direct messages. </li><li>Support influencer and partner relationships through collaborative posts and cross-tagging. </li><li>Produce monthly performance reports and recommend improvements to increase reach and engagement. </li></ul><p><strong>Website Content Updates</strong> </p><ul><li>Maintain Openlands’ website, updating pages and posting new content to ensure accuracy, accessibility, and SEO compliance. </li><li>Partner with Program staff to keep Program pages updated and relevant to seasonal needs. </li><li>Track and report on website analytics to inform user experience improvements. </li><li>Coordinate with external web vendors to address technical issues and performance needs. </li></ul><p><strong>E-Mail Marketing</strong> </p><ul><li>Build and distribute email campaigns, including monthly newsletters, Program updates, action alerts, and event invitations.  </li><li>Partner with the Development staff to support online fundraising campaigns (e.g., Spring Giving, Year-End Giving). </li><li>Implement tracking codes to measure campaign performance and create monthly reports on email engagement and impact. </li><li>Maintain email list hygiene and ensure accurate integration with the CRM system. </li></ul><p><strong>Internal Communications</strong> </p><ul><li>Assist with onboarding processes for new staff and board members, including email signatures, website updates, and internal communications access.  </li><li>Update and maintain brand resources and communications templates. </li><li>Support scheduling and logistics for internal communications trainings. </li></ul><p><strong>Collaboration,</strong> <strong>Analytics &amp; Reporting</strong> </p><ul><li>Elaborate monthly reports on social media, website, and email performance. </li><li>Track key metrics to inform strategy and demonstrate ROI for communications efforts. </li><li>Analyze social media and media outreach metrics, providing insights to improve performance and storytelling. </li><li>Collaborate on campaigns and strategy to ensure Openlands is reaching and engaging bilingual audiences effectively. </li></ul><p>Other duties as assigned  </p></div><div><p> <strong>Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities</strong> </p><ul><li>Strong commitment to Openlands’ mission, values, and equity-centered approach. </li><li>Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, or related field. </li><li>3-5 years of experience in social media, communications, marketing, or fundraising. </li><li>Excellent written and verbal communication skills. </li><li>Proficiency in social media platforms and management tools (e.g., Hootsuite). </li><li>Experience with Capcut, WordPress, Canva, Constant Contact, and other content creation tools.  </li><li>Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for travel to program sites and events.  </li><li>Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple deadlines. </li><li>Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders. </li><li>Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite. </li></ul><p><strong>Preferred:</strong> </p><ul><li>Master’s degree or additional certifications in communications or digital marketing. </li><li>Salesforce CRM experience. </li><li>Spanish language proficiency (written and oral). </li><li>Knowledge of conservation, environmental justice, or nonprofit sectors. </li></ul><p><strong>COVER LETTER AND RESUME REQUIRED</strong></p></div><div>Job Type</div><div>Full-time</div><div>Salary Description</div><div>$55,000–$60,000 annually</div>

<div class="org-about-module-wrapper org-about-module__card-spacing" tabindex="-1" data-artdeco-is-focused="true">
<div>
<div class="org-about-module__description">
<div id="ember55" class="ember-view organization-about-module__content-consistant-cards-description"><span class="lt-line-clamp__raw-line">As innovative protectors and stewards of the land since 1963, Openlands exists to create access to nature for all. Through local alliances, forward vision, and persistent action, Openlands connects and leads conservation work, serving as a guiding voice for communities, organizations, and more effective policy in northeastern Illinois and the surrounding region.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>

Communications Specialist

<div><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Communications Specialist is a key member of the External Affairs function at Openlands, responsible for executing day-to-day communications activities across digital platforms and supporting donor and corporate engagement initiatives. This role focuses on social media management, website updates, email marketing, and storytelling that amplifies Openlands’ mission and strategic priorities.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Reporting to the Assistant Director of Communications, the Communications Specialist works closely with the Public Relations Specialist, Development, and Programmatic Teams to ensure timely, accurate, and high-quality content delivery. This is a full-time, non-exempt, hybrid position requiring occasional evening and weekend work for events.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Essential Job Functions:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Social Media</strong> <strong>Management</strong> <strong>and Content Creation</strong>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Create original content in multiple formats, including images, short and long videos, social graphics, infographics, and branded materials, ensuring accessibility and cultural relevance for bilingual audiences.&nbsp;</li><li>Manage Openlands’ social media calendar and ensure posts reflect the organization’s brand, voice, and strategic priorities.&nbsp;</li><li>Plan, execute and optimize paid social media campaigns, managing budget, targeting and performance to support Openlands’ priorities.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Collaborate with internal teams to strategize content and respond to timely opportunities to share with external audiences.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Work closely with Program, Development, and Communications staff to gather stories, updates, and visuals.&nbsp;</li><li>Monitor platforms for engagement, trends, and brand sentiment; respond to comments and direct messages.&nbsp;</li><li>Support influencer and partner relationships through collaborative posts and cross-tagging.&nbsp;</li><li>Produce monthly performance reports and recommend improvements to increase reach and engagement.&nbsp;</li></ul><p><strong>Website Content Updates</strong>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Maintain Openlands’ website, updating pages and posting new content to ensure accuracy, accessibility, and SEO compliance.&nbsp;</li><li>Partner with Program staff to keep Program pages updated and relevant to seasonal needs.&nbsp;</li><li>Track and report on website analytics to inform user experience improvements.&nbsp;</li><li>Coordinate with external web vendors to address technical issues and performance needs.&nbsp;</li></ul><p><strong>E-Mail Marketing</strong>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Build and distribute email campaigns, including monthly newsletters, Program updates, action alerts, and event invitations. &nbsp;</li><li>Partner with the Development staff to support online fundraising campaigns (e.g., Spring Giving, Year-End Giving).&nbsp;</li><li>Implement tracking codes to measure campaign performance and create monthly reports on email engagement and impact.&nbsp;</li><li>Maintain email list hygiene and ensure accurate integration with the CRM system.&nbsp;</li></ul><p><strong>Internal Communications</strong>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Assist with onboarding processes for new staff and board members, including email signatures, website updates, and internal communications access. &nbsp;</li><li>Update and maintain brand resources and communications templates.&nbsp;</li><li>Support scheduling and logistics for internal communications trainings.&nbsp;</li></ul><p><strong>Collaboration,</strong> <strong>Analytics &amp; Reporting</strong>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Elaborate monthly reports on social media, website, and email performance.&nbsp;</li><li>Track key metrics to inform strategy and demonstrate ROI for communications efforts.&nbsp;</li><li>Analyze social media and media outreach metrics, providing insights to improve performance and storytelling.&nbsp;</li><li>Collaborate on campaigns and strategy to ensure Openlands is reaching and engaging bilingual audiences effectively.&nbsp;</li></ul><p>Other duties as assigned&nbsp;&nbsp;</p></div><div><p>&nbsp;<strong>Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities</strong>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Strong commitment to Openlands’ mission, values, and equity-centered approach.&nbsp;</li><li>Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, or related field.&nbsp;</li><li>3-5 years of experience in social media, communications, marketing, or fundraising.&nbsp;</li><li>Excellent written and verbal communication skills.&nbsp;</li><li>Proficiency in social media platforms and management tools (e.g., Hootsuite).&nbsp;</li><li>Experience with Capcut, WordPress, Canva, Constant Contact, and other content creation tools.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for travel to program sites and events. &nbsp;</li><li>Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple deadlines.&nbsp;</li><li>Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders.&nbsp;</li><li>Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.&nbsp;</li></ul><p><strong>Preferred:</strong>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Master’s degree or additional certifications in communications or digital marketing.&nbsp;</li><li>Salesforce CRM experience.&nbsp;</li><li>Spanish language proficiency (written and oral).&nbsp;</li><li>Knowledge of conservation, environmental justice, or nonprofit sectors.&nbsp;</li></ul><p><strong>COVER LETTER AND RESUME REQUIRED</strong></p></div><div>Job Type</div><div>Full-time</div><div><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Communications Specialist is a key member of the External Affairs function at Openlands, responsible for executing day-to-day communications activities across digital platforms and supporting donor and corporate engagement initiatives. This role focuses on social media management, website updates, email marketing, and storytelling that amplifies Openlands’ mission and strategic priorities.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Reporting to the Assistant Director of Communications, the Communications Specialist works closely with the Public Relations Specialist, Development, and Programmatic Teams to ensure timely, accurate, and high-quality content delivery. This is a full-time, non-exempt, hybrid position requiring occasional evening and weekend work for events.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Essential Job Functions:</strong>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Social Media</strong> <strong>Management</strong> <strong>and Content Creation</strong>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Create original content in multiple formats, including images, short and long videos, social graphics, infographics, and branded materials, ensuring accessibility and cultural relevance for bilingual audiences.&nbsp;</li><li>Manage Openlands’ social media calendar and ensure posts reflect the organization’s brand, voice, and strategic priorities.&nbsp;</li><li>Plan, execute and optimize paid social media campaigns, managing budget, targeting and performance to support Openlands’ priorities.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Collaborate with internal teams to strategize content and respond to timely opportunities to share with external audiences.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Work closely with Program, Development, and Communications staff to gather stories, updates, and visuals.&nbsp;</li><li>Monitor platforms for engagement, trends, and brand sentiment; respond to comments and direct messages.&nbsp;</li><li>Support influencer and partner relationships through collaborative posts and cross-tagging.&nbsp;</li><li>Produce monthly performance reports and recommend improvements to increase reach and engagement.&nbsp;</li></ul><p><strong>Website Content Updates</strong>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Maintain Openlands’ website, updating pages and posting new content to ensure accuracy, accessibility, and SEO compliance.&nbsp;</li><li>Partner with Program staff to keep Program pages updated and relevant to seasonal needs.&nbsp;</li><li>Track and report on website analytics to inform user experience improvements.&nbsp;</li><li>Coordinate with external web vendors to address technical issues and performance needs.&nbsp;</li></ul><p><strong>E-Mail Marketing</strong>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Build and distribute email campaigns, including monthly newsletters, Program updates, action alerts, and event invitations. &nbsp;</li><li>Partner with the Development staff to support online fundraising campaigns (e.g., Spring Giving, Year-End Giving).&nbsp;</li><li>Implement tracking codes to measure campaign performance and create monthly reports on email engagement and impact.&nbsp;</li><li>Maintain email list hygiene and ensure accurate integration with the CRM system.&nbsp;</li></ul><p><strong>Internal Communications</strong>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Assist with onboarding processes for new staff and board members, including email signatures, website updates, and internal communications access. &nbsp;</li><li>Update and maintain brand resources and communications templates.&nbsp;</li><li>Support scheduling and logistics for internal communications trainings.&nbsp;</li></ul><p><strong>Collaboration,</strong> <strong>Analytics &amp; Reporting</strong>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Elaborate monthly reports on social media, website, and email performance.&nbsp;</li><li>Track key metrics to inform strategy and demonstrate ROI for communications efforts.&nbsp;</li><li>Analyze social media and media outreach metrics, providing insights to improve performance and storytelling.&nbsp;</li><li>Collaborate on campaigns and strategy to ensure Openlands is reaching and engaging bilingual audiences effectively.&nbsp;</li></ul><p>Other duties as assigned&nbsp;&nbsp;</p></div><div><p>&nbsp;<strong>Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities</strong>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Strong commitment to Openlands’ mission, values, and equity-centered approach.&nbsp;</li><li>Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, or related field.&nbsp;</li><li>3-5 years of experience in social media, communications, marketing, or fundraising.&nbsp;</li><li>Excellent written and verbal communication skills.&nbsp;</li><li>Proficiency in social media platforms and management tools (e.g., Hootsuite).&nbsp;</li><li>Experience with Capcut, WordPress, Canva, Constant Contact, and other content creation tools.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for travel to program sites and events. &nbsp;</li><li>Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple deadlines.&nbsp;</li><li>Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders.&nbsp;</li><li>Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.&nbsp;</li></ul><p><strong>Preferred:</strong>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Master’s degree or additional certifications in communications or digital marketing.&nbsp;</li><li>Salesforce CRM experience.&nbsp;</li><li>Spanish language proficiency (written and oral).&nbsp;</li><li>Knowledge of conservation, environmental justice, or nonprofit sectors.&nbsp;</li></ul><p><strong>COVER LETTER AND RESUME REQUIRED</strong></p></div><div>Job Type</div><div>Full-time</div><div>Salary Description</div><div>$55,000–$60,000 annually</div>

Communications Specialist

About the Job

About the Company

Openlands

Similar Jobs

Communications Manager, Energy Access

Communications Manager, Energy Access

Communications Specialist - Spain & Portugal

Communications Specialist - Spain & Portugal

Marketing and Communications Specialist

Marketing and Communications Specialist

Communications Manager, Global Industry Hub

Communications Manager, Global Industry Hub

Communications Senior Associate, Social and Content

Communications Senior Associate, Social and Content

Communications Coordinator

Communications Coordinator

(Senior) Communications Manager (m/f/d)

(Senior) Communications Manager (m/f/d)

Communications Manager

Communications Manager

Communications Manager (Contract)

Communications Manager (Contract)

Public Relations Specialist

Public Relations Specialist