The California Budget & Policy Center (Budget Center) seeks to hire a Communications Strategist to lead the organization’s media relations strategy and support and execute other communication strategies and tactics to reach the organization’s audiences — advocates, policymakers, media, and funders.
The ideal candidate is a strong writer, strategic thinker, experienced in media relations, highly organized, detail-oriented, and enthusiastic about communicating with the media and other audiences on a wide range of issues and policies. They are eager to collaborate with a dynamic communications team and subject matter experts, and also enjoy working independently. They will be committed to the Budget Center’s internal and external work to center race, gender, economic, and social equity.
Who We Are
The Budget Center works to build a more inclusive California where everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in the state’s economic, social, and political life. This requires our state to make smart policy choices and public investments for Californians with low and middle incomes, including Californians of color. By examining the most pressing issues and making them accessible and more understandable, we aim to broaden participation in state policy debates and help foster outcomes that work for all Californians, especially those who have not yet shared in our state’s economic prosperity.
The Budget Center is committed to advancing equity and inclusion and seeks to create an environment and culture that embraces employee differences.
What You’ll Do
The Communications Strategist, who is based in California and reports to the Director of Communications, will:
- Lead and execute the Budget Center’s media relations strategy;
- Develop and coordinate media training and talking points;
- Write and edit press releases, commentaries, publications, and other assets;
- Serve as a spokesperson for the organization;
- Contribute to and collaborate on communications campaigns and strategy;
- Support the Development, Outreach, and Communications teams in strategizing, planning, and promoting Budget Center events.
Who You Are & Keys to Success
To be successful in this job, you are:
- A versatile communicator: You are a skilled writer who can clearly and concisely break down a wide range of complex topics and craft compelling narratives. You can produce talking points and content that may be needed for a website, blog, or email.
- Collaborative and strategic: You are looking to build and cultivate authentic relationships with colleagues, the media, and external partners. You incorporate new ideas, want to improve systems, and are able to connect people and ideas to advance public policy.
- Results-orientated: You have a track record of achieving and producing results rather than getting immersed in process. You are innovative and value data collection and analytics to guide your work.
- Committed to racial and gender equity: You recognize the role of race, income, age, immigration status, abilities, and other identities in shaping economic, health, and social well-being, and the need to advance more equitable policy solutions. You recognize how your own identities show up in work and workspaces, and welcome, reflect on, and act on feedback with an eye toward continuous learning about race, gender, ability, and other lines of difference.
At least three years of communications experience in public relations/public affairs, journalism, policy, political, or nonprofit environment is required.
Strong technology skills, including proficiency with the Google Suite and Microsoft 365 are also essential. Experience working with content and project management systems in a professional setting is a plus.
What Else You Should Know
This position is full-time and based in California. The organization’s headquarters are in Sacramento and staff must be California-based. In-person, hybrid, or remote work arrangements are available.
The salary range for the position is $75,000 – $95,000 based on experience and skill set. Benefits include:
- Excellent health insurance and dental and vision coverage (100% coverage of premiums for the employee; 90% coverage of premiums for dependents);
- Retirement benefits including a 403b plan, an annual SEP-IRA retirement contribution of at least 5% of salary (most recently set at 10% of salary) beginning after one year of service;
- 12 paid vacation days, 10 paid holidays, and 4 paid personal days annually;
- Paid sick leave and family leave;
- FSAs for health, child care, and transportation costs;
- Annual stipends to cover home office, transportation, and well-being expenses; and
- Annual allocations for professional development.
How to Apply
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Priority will be given to applications that are received by July 14, 2023. To apply, send the materials listed below in a single PDF document to JSelby@calbudgetcenter.org – with the subject line “Communications Strategist Application.” No calls or mail, please.
- Resume
- Cover letter
- Writing sample
- A brief equity statement addressing how your personal and professional experiences demonstrate your embrace of diversity, equity, and inclusion
- Names of three references
The Budget Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and welcomes diversity in the workplace and strongly encourages all qualified persons to apply regardless of race, creed, color, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, religious or political affiliation, disability, and any other classification considered discriminatory under applicable law.
