2026 Graduate - Social Media Specialist
Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, Laurel, MD, United States
Overview
Do you enjoy creating eye-catching visuals and telling stories through social media? Do you enjoy digital communications and making technical topics engaging for a broader audience? We are seeking a Social Media Specialist to contribute to our digital presence and help strengthen how APL's work is shared on digital platforms. As a member of our communications team, you'll support the Laboratory's social media channels by writing clear, engaging copy; curating audio and visuals; and helping manage digital content. You'll collaborate with experienced communicators, designers, videographers, and technical staff, while applying best practices in communications.
Responsibilities
Writing and editing short-form social media copy that translates technical and research-based content into clear, accessible messaging
Preparing visual elements (images, graphics, short video clips) and using tools to produce audio articles to complement messaging goals
Assisting with scheduling, publishing, and monitoring posts across the Laboratory's social media channels
Contributing creative ideas to campaigns and helping to maintain organized digital content libraries
Qualifications
Hold a Bachelor’s degree in digital media, social media, communications, digital media, or a related field
Have prior internship experience focusing on social media management, digital marketing, or content creation
Have strong writing and editing skills, with an ability to translate complex or technical information into clear, concise, and engaging content, and to adapt tone and style for different audiences and platforms
Demonstrate knowledge of graphic design and video production tools, with experience using Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, After Effects, etc.)
Have expertise in the use of major social media platforms (LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X, YouTube, BlueSky, Threads, and more) and an understanding of how content should be modified per platform
Are able to analyze social media algorithm trends, understand external audience behaviors, and develop strategies based on high-performing content
Are comfortable using social media scheduling and analytics tools (e.g., Hootsuite, Sprout Social, Later) and project management tools (e.g., Asana, Monday, Trello)
Collaborate effectively in a team environment, take creative direction, and contribute ideas
Show attention to detail, strong organization, and the ability to meet deadlines
Are able to work onsite in Laurel, Maryland, a minimum of three days a week
Can obtain Secret-level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship
You’ll go above and beyond
Have professional experience writing copy and creating content for social media, blogs, or digital campaigns
Bring prior experience supporting digital media projects that include video editing, podcast or audio tools, and/or multimedia storytelling
Understand brand and voice guidelines and can tailor messaging and visual elements across different platforms, audiences, and campaigns
Thrive in fast-paced environments where you may need to quickly turn around digital content
Show curiosity and creativity in exploring new ways to connect with audiences through social and digital media
Hold an active Secret clearance
About Us The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. We celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits and a healthy work/life balance. APL is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area.
EEO and Accessibility All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu.
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Responsibilities
Writing and editing short-form social media copy that translates technical and research-based content into clear, accessible messaging
Preparing visual elements (images, graphics, short video clips) and using tools to produce audio articles to complement messaging goals
Assisting with scheduling, publishing, and monitoring posts across the Laboratory's social media channels
Contributing creative ideas to campaigns and helping to maintain organized digital content libraries
Qualifications
Hold a Bachelor’s degree in digital media, social media, communications, digital media, or a related field
Have prior internship experience focusing on social media management, digital marketing, or content creation
Have strong writing and editing skills, with an ability to translate complex or technical information into clear, concise, and engaging content, and to adapt tone and style for different audiences and platforms
Demonstrate knowledge of graphic design and video production tools, with experience using Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, After Effects, etc.)
Have expertise in the use of major social media platforms (LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter/X, YouTube, BlueSky, Threads, and more) and an understanding of how content should be modified per platform
Are able to analyze social media algorithm trends, understand external audience behaviors, and develop strategies based on high-performing content
Are comfortable using social media scheduling and analytics tools (e.g., Hootsuite, Sprout Social, Later) and project management tools (e.g., Asana, Monday, Trello)
Collaborate effectively in a team environment, take creative direction, and contribute ideas
Show attention to detail, strong organization, and the ability to meet deadlines
Are able to work onsite in Laurel, Maryland, a minimum of three days a week
Can obtain Secret-level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship
You’ll go above and beyond
Have professional experience writing copy and creating content for social media, blogs, or digital campaigns
Bring prior experience supporting digital media projects that include video editing, podcast or audio tools, and/or multimedia storytelling
Understand brand and voice guidelines and can tailor messaging and visual elements across different platforms, audiences, and campaigns
Thrive in fast-paced environments where you may need to quickly turn around digital content
Show curiosity and creativity in exploring new ways to connect with audiences through social and digital media
Hold an active Secret clearance
About Us The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. We celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits and a healthy work/life balance. APL is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area.
EEO and Accessibility All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu.
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