Institute for Policy Studies (IPS)

Full-time

The (IPS) is a progressive research organization. We work on a broad range of issues and partner with social movements to develop research, communications, and strategies for peace, justice, and the environment. One key component of this work is our op-ed service, which offers free, syndicated op-eds to local newspapers and websites across the country.

IPS is seeking aMedia Relations Associateto help place and track these op-eds and to support our communications work overall by tracking press coverage, posting content to our website, and helping prepare our newsletters.

This role is a great fit for someone whos detail-oriented (lots of job descriptions say this, but its really important for this role!), excited about progressive policy issues, and able to communicate with politically diverse audiences especially the editors and readers of local newspapers. This position reports to our Communications Director and joins a friendly, supportive communications team of six.

IPS is a Washington, D.C.-based organization with staff and partners who live across the country. Wed like to hire a D.C.-based applicant but will consider qualified remote applicants who can work in Eastern Standard Time as well.

This is a full-time position, with the organization closing at 1:00 pm Eastern on Fridays.

Key Responsibilities

• Pitch syndicated op-eds published through IPSsOtherWords.orgservice to editors nationwide. (Roughly 50 percent.)
• Build, maintain, update, and deploy targeted pitch lists of editors and outlets.
• Draft pitch notes and assist with developing pitching strategies.
• Accurately and thoroughly track placements of OtherWords op-eds.
• Accurately and thoroughly track placements of other IPS media hits and compile monthly internal reports. (Roughly 25 percent.)
• Support the communications team in posting content on the IPS website and YouTube or elsewhere as needed. (Roughly 15 percent.)
• Help prepare and distribute newsletters. (Roughly 10 percent.)

Required Qualifications

• At least2 years of experiencein journalism, communications, public relations, or a related field. (Applicants lacking experience but with a related degree will also be considered if they score well on a skills test.)
• Ability to communicate about policy conversationally and persuasively across politically diverse audiences.
• Familiarity using Excel and/or Google Sheets to compile regular reports.
• High level of attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.
• Broad knowledge of current events and public policy, especially issues IPS works on and OtherWords publishes on.
• Commitment to IPS values and mission.

Preferred Qualifications

• Editorial experience at alocal or student news publicationis a plus. If you haveprior experience successfully sending pitches or reviewing themfor outlets like these, youll be strongly considered.
• Familiarity with posting website content onWordPressor another content management system is a plus. So is any experience usingEveryActionor a similar email / database system. Well offer training but some familiarity coming in is helpful.

Reporting & Collaboration

This position reports to theIPS Communications Directorand works closely with other members of the communications team and program staff across IPS.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary:$57,000
• Ex…