Communications Assistant, New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU), New York City

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT

COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT

The New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) is one of the nation's foremost defenders of civil liberties and civil rights. Founded in 1951 as the New York affiliate of the American Civil Liberties Union, we are a not-for-profit, nonpartisan organization with eight offices and nearly fifty thousand members across the state. We work in the courts, in the legislatures, and on the streets to advocate for racial and economic justice, free speech, freedom of religion, privacy, and equality before the law for all New Yorkers.

The NYCLU’s Department of Communications spearheads the organization’s public education work and oversees all contact with the press. The department also launches multi-media advocacy campaigns, publishes reports and other materials, runs the organization’s websites, and keeps members of the staff apprised of their colleagues’ work.

The Communications Assistant will report to the Communications Director and will work closely with the organization’s legal, legislative field, and chapter staff to perform the following functions:

• Maintain targeted press lists;
• Track and archive daily media coverage of the NYCLU;
• Prepare a daily memo updating staff on news coverage relevant to NYCLU work;
• Help write and edit reports, press releases, letters to the editor and other NYCLU materials;
• Update web content;
• Participate in creating cohesive press plans and media strategies;
• Coordinate the layout and printing of NYCLU publications; and
• Assist the Communications Director and other Communications team members with administrative tasks, writing and research.

Candidates must possess the following qualifications:

• A profound and well-articulated commitment to civil liberties and social justice;
• Experience in journalism, public relations or nonprofit communications;
• Excellent writing, research and telephone skills;
• A college degree;
• Proficiency with MS Office programs;
• Experience with design programs and website maintenance a plus;
• A keen eye for print and online design, page layout, font and general presentation;
• The ability to thrive under deadline pressures; and
• A diplomatic touch and a sense of humor.

Salary will be based on experience and qualifications. The NYCLU provides excellent health and dental benefits. The position is available immediately.

People of color, women, people with disabilities, and LGBTQ people are encouraged to apply.

Please send a resume, a writing sample, and a cover letter to jobs@nyclu.org. Include “Communications Assistant” in the subject line.