Communications Associate

Founded in 1969, the Catskill Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that preserves and enriches the environmental, economic and cultural well-being of the Catskill region. We believe that the vitality and prosperity of the Catskills depend on robust collaboration, thriving local communities, and the wise stewardship of our natural resources. For more information, visit www.catskillcenter.org.

Job Overview

The Catskill Center seeks a Communications Associate to assist in inspiring audiences with impactful stories of the Catskills and supporting the Catskill Center’s communications efforts. This individual will help strengthen relationships with members and stakeholders and contribute to engaging new audiences to support the organization’s mission. 

The Communications Associate will support the development of stories, assist in managing the Catskill Center’s brand identity, and provide administrative and creative support for marketing campaigns, social media, and public relations efforts. This role works collaboratively to ensure the Catskill Center communicates its vision, mission, goals, initiatives, and successes consistently, clearly, and effectively.

The Communications Associate will work under the supervision of  the Communications Manager, and closely with development and program staff. This is a new, full-time position based in Arkville, NY, with the opportunity to work up to 3-5 days/week remotely. The position involves significant computer-based work, on-site content generation (e.g., photography, videography, and interviews) in both indoor and outdoor settings that may require traversing unimproved surfaces, such as trails, and virtual and in-person meetings. Infrequent travel is required, with more during the summer months.  Travel is primarily throughout the Catskills region, but possible  to the Hudson Valley and New York City area.

Job Responsibilities

Under the supervision of the Communications Manager, the Communications Associate will:

Organizational Responsibilities

• Assist in communicating the Catskill Center’s brand, position, and messages effectively and consistently through narrative and design;
• Provide support for capturing and organizing photos and videos to help tell the stories of Catskills people, places, nature, and events;
• Support the Communications Manager in helping to implement the organization’s communications strategy;
• Assist in developing and evaluating components of the annual communications plan;
• Support the collection and tracking of data to measure the success of communications initiatives;
• Provide logistical support to program staff for event and activity promotion and attend events as needed;
• Contribute to the creation and maintenance of public-facing print and electronic materials;
• Assist in ensuring consistency of brand identity in all materials for public distribution;

• Provide support for updating and maintaining the Catskill Center website, ensuring it aligns with strategic organizational objectives under supervision of the Communications Manager;
• Help create and distribute eNewsletters and other targeted bulk email communications to members, donors, and partners;
• Support the Communications Manager in managing social media platforms and growing audience engagement;
• Assist in generating and scheduling engaging content for social media channels;
• Track and report metrics related to social media and email campaigns;
• Assist in the development and distribution of the CATSKILLS Magazine, the Catskill Center’s twice-yearly membership newsletter;
• Gather content and provide feedback to enhance the magazine based on organizational needs;
• Assist in creating, updating, and distributing public relations materials;
• Support the Communications Manager in managing media requests and contacts;
• Help draft speeches or presentations as needed;
• Stay informed of communications and public relations trends to bring ideas to the team;
• Other duties as assigned.

Special Benefits

Compensation Starting wages $23-24/hour, based on relevant experience, plus comprehensive benefits package including generous paid leave, retirement, and health plan benefits.

Minimum Requirements

Required Qualifications

Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle. Additional required qualifications include:

• 4+ years mix of college education and/or relevant experience: e.g.  Bachelor’s degree in related field; Assoc. Degree + 1 year; 4+ year relevant experience, etc.
• Strong storytelling ability in oral and written forms;
• Demonstrated communications skills, including strong attention to detail and the ability to work collaboratively;
• Proficiency in oral and written English, including proper grammar and spelling;
• Ability to prioritize tasks and work effectively within a team environment.;
• Proficiency in word processing, Microsoft Office Suite, and web navigation;
• Skill with or interest in learning photography, videography, and content creation;
• Skill with or interest in learning basic graphic design and Adobe Creative Suite.

Strong candidates will also have the following skills and qualifications:

• 2+ years in professional work environment; 1-2 years of experience in similar or related position;
• Familiarity with bulk email systems (e.g., Mailchimp) or website management platforms (e.g., Squarespace);
• Eagerness to learn and improve existing skills;
• Familiarity with Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, and/or Photoshop;
• Experience with public speaking, including the ability to confidently present to diverse audiences;
• A passion for outdoor recreation, the environment, and the Catskills region;