Communications Specialist

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Communications Specialist leads execution of all Lift to Rise communications, including public relations, editorial planning, digital, and social media, consistently articulating the organization's mission and moving audiences to action. This role requires a creative and strategic professional with exceptional writing ability, strong project management skills, and a proven ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines. The ideal candidate will be proactive and adept at building positive relationships with strong problem-solving skills and a keen eye for visual design. This is an on-site, in-person role.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Writing and Messaging

Strategically execute all core communications functions: generate and share engaging written and visual content about the organization's work, as well as presentations, meetings and events for Lift to Rise and our partners
Drive consistency in communication frequency, type, style/format, and quality of content, relying on a strong and established brand identity
Produce clear, concise, and compelling communication materials for dissemination, collaborating with staff and subject matter experts to translate technical information into accessible content
Identify, monitor and respond to upcoming and ongoing news and events at both local, state and national level related to the work of Lift to Rise
Public Relations Serve as primary liaison with outside communications agencies to align external PR and communications strategies with the organization's goals, brand, and messaging. Manage deadlines, deliverables and review marketing collateral as needed.
Build and maintain relationships with journalists, editors and thought leaders, responding to media/press inquiries and drafting/disseminating press release and other PR materials
Monitor news mentions and provide rapid response content as needed
Proactively seek out earned media opportunities, both traditional and innovative, to move the mission and understanding of the work forward
Coordinate with community-based organizations to ensure continuity of narrative amongst partner organizations and LTR platforms
All other duties as related to communications and messaging
Digital and Social Media Develop compelling, on-brand content that aligns with values and mission; maintain content calendars
Create, edit, and manage digital content and assets
Monitor and engage with audiences on social media platforms in a timely and professional manner
Manage email newsletters, including segmentation and updates for campaigns
Update Lift to Rise website as needed and report on baseline analytics
Qualifications 4-6 years of full-time professional experience in nonprofit or mission-driven communications roles
Bachelor's degree required (related field preferred)
Exceptional, demonstrated experience in clear, concise content writing and copywriting, as well as proofreading and editing skills
Proven experience in planning and executing editorial content and social media calendars
Demonstrated experience with digital media apps and software, including: CMS platforms, email marketing, design apps (Adobe Creative, Canva, etc.), and metrics apps
Able to work in dynamic environments and adjust to shifting priorities or creative direction
Experience tracking and monitoring communication tactics, such as online comments, blog posts, social media results and impacts
Experience working in or with communications agencies preferred
Bilingual candidates preferred
Candidate Requirements Must be able to work full-time, including some weekends and evenings as needed
Experience working in communities of color
Willingness and ability to travel across the Coachella Valley and other locales for communications work; must have transportation resources available, valid driver's license, and maintain clean driving record
Capable of maintaining professional boundaries and confidentiality at all times
A passion and authentic commitment to justice and equity for people of all ethnicities, races, ages, gender identities, sexual orientations, economic circumstances, physical and mental abilities and characteristics, and philosophies
Genuine commitment to resident and community issues, as well as Lift to Rise's vision, mission and values
Physical Requirements Able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
Able to frequently walk, sit, and perform other job duties in both indoor and outdoor environments Able to occasionally stand for long periods of time
Visual acuity to operate computer and laptop for extended periods of time
Able to occasionally lift up to 30-40 pounds without assistance
Benefits Health Insurance - Medical, Vision & Dental
Life Insurance
Paid Holidays and Sick Time
PTO - Paid Time Off
Retirement Benefits with Employer Match

*Waiting periods may apply.

HOW TO APPLY

Please submit your resume, a writing sample relevant to this position, and a cover letter that clearly indicates how your experience and qualifications align with this position as one file (.pdf, .docx) with your last name in the file name. We will take applications through March 31 and begin screening for this role in April 2026.

ABOUT LIFT TO RISE

Lift to Rise works to achieve a future where all Coachella Valley families are healthy, stable, and thriving. To this end, Lift to Rise catalyzes both institutional and grassroots leaders to effectively collaborate and shift their attention and activities toward mutually reinforced interventions that address the underlying causes of poverty in the region. To learn more, please visit: http://lifttorise.org