Communications Contractor

Job Title: Communications Contractor (Hybrid)Organization: Lake Merritt ConservancyDuration: Contract (Part-Time; 6 mo, Fiscal Yr ‘26)Position Overview:The Lake Merritt Conservancy seeks an experienced, skilled, and creative Communications Contractor to support strategic messaging and public engagement efforts. This role will assist the core team and working board in developing and driving a communications strategy and organizational communications calendar that achieve outreach and development goals. Other tasks will include managing social media channels, producing a bi-monthly member newsletter, and developing clear, compelling external communications related to capital projects and the advocacy mission of the organization, in order to drive public engagement and civic partnership in conserving and experiencing Lake Merritt and its surrounding parkland. The ideal candidate is an excellent storyteller, highly organized, collaborative, and comfortable translating complex information into accessible and engaging content for diverse audiences. Key Responsibilities:Social Media ManagementDevelop, schedule, and publish content across social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Substack) and the LMC website (lakemc.org,)Create engaging multimedia content, including graphics, short videos, and photosMonitor comments and messages, responding promptly and professionally, and escalate any urgent or sensitive issuesTrack performance metrics and optimize content based on engagement dataMember Newsletter (Every Two Months)Coordinate content contributions from internal teams (programs, development, leadership)Plan, write, and edit a newsletter for Conservancy members every two monthsEnsure consistent voice, branding, and messaging across all communicationsManage production timelines and distribution via email marketing platformsCapital Projects CommunicationsCollaborate with the Board's project managers and leadership to develop external communications for capital projectsTranslate technical project details into clear, public-facing updatesCreate press releases, website updates, fact sheets, and community outreach materialsSupport public information efforts, including announcements, stakeholder communications, and milestone updatesAdditional ResponsibilitiesCreate and drive the organization’s communications calendar incorporating all channels and messagingMaintain and update website content as needed to match current messagingAttend LMC-organized events, and capture and catalog content materials (photos, videos, text) for media sharing Support communications planning, message creation, storytelling, and campaign developmentEnsure all communications align with the Conservancy’s mission, values, and brand guidelinesWho Should Apply:We need you to have:Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skillsExperience managing organizational social media accounts3–5 years of experience in communications, public relations, or related fieldFamiliarity with email marketing tools (e.g., Mailchimp, Constant Contact) and adept at learning new systems and platforms as neededAbility to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines independentlyKnowledge of Oakland, Oakland’s political landscape, and Lake Merritt’s environsWe want you to have:Experience translating technical or complex topics for general audiencesSoftware skills in Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, and CanvaInterest in parks, conservation, or environmental organizationsExperience in advocacy, multi-stakeholder public engagement, and crisis communicationsWorking Style & Expectations:Self-directed and responsive, with strong time management skillsCollaborative and comfortable working with cross-functional teamsFlexible availability for occasional meetings or time-sensitive communications needsReports to Programs and Communications Directors and together engages input and guides communications projects for working founding boardDeliverables:Social media posts at least twice a week across all channelsSix newsletters annually; one every two monthsCreate an organizational communications calendar for all communications channels, including social media and events and programs posts Working with committees for ongoing professional communications materials developed to support capital projects, events and campaigns (fundraising including membership and development, mission-driven stewardship activities, advocacy, public service messages, and educational articles)Keep abreast of what is happening in each of the committees.Compensation:Up to $1000/month commensurate with experience; delivery-based contract structure, with monthly 1099 invoicing.How to Apply:Please submit your resume, a portfolio (work samples, social media, newsletters, fundraising or project communications), and a brief cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience.We’re accepting applications until May 29th, 2026.