Digital Media Specialist

Van Andel Institute (VAI), a world-class biomedical research institute, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is dedicated to improving human health. We are pioneers in the fight against cancer, Parkinson's, and other diseases. We are committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists and educators.

Summary

We are seeking a creative and detail-oriented Social Media & Videography Specialist to create engaging digital content across multiple platforms. This role will focus on capturing, editing, and producing video content while supporting day-to-day social media execution, storytelling, and audience engagement. The ideal candidate is highly creative, organized, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate can create visually compelling content while understanding how to communicate in ways that resonate with K-12 educators and school communities.

Key Responsibilities

Social Media

Create, schedule, and publish content across social media platforms including Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube
Write engaging captions and assist with content planning and campaign execution
Monitor social media trends, audience engagement, and platform best practices
Capture behind-the-scenes content, event highlights, and promotional material
Track content performance and provide insights for future content improvements
Maintain a consistent brand voice and visual identity across all channels
Videography & Content Creation

Film and edit short-form and long-form video content for social media, marketing, and promotional use
Operate cameras, lighting, audio, and editing software to produce high-quality content
Create reels, interviews, testimonials, event recaps, and promotional videos
Translate educational concepts, classroom experiences, and student-focused storytelling into compelling visual content that will resonate with K-12 educators
Assist with photography and basic graphic design as needed
Organize and maintain digital media files and content libraries
Collaborate with team members to develop creative concepts and storytelling ideas
Qualifications

Experience with social media content creation and platform management
Proficiency in video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or similar tools
Familiarity with Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, or equivalent creative software
Strong understanding of current social media trends and short-form video content
Excellent communication, organization, and time management skills
Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Photography experience is a plus
Preferred Skills

Experience creating content for brands, organizations, or businesses
Knowledge of social media analytics and reporting
Basic motion graphics or animation skills
Experience capturing live events or interviews
Experience in K-12 education, educational communications, or creating content for educator audiences is strongly valued
Work Environment

Combination of office and on-location filming environments
Some evening or weekend work may be required for events or content capture

About Van Andel Institute

Established in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1996 by the Van Andel family, VAI is now home to nearly 500 scientists, educators and support staff, who work with national and international collaborators to foster discovery. The Institute's scientists study the origins of cancer, Parkinson's and other diseases and translate their findings into breakthrough prevention and treatment strategies. Our educators develop inquiry-based approaches for K-12 education to help students and teachers prepare the next generation of problem-solvers, while our Graduate School offers a rigorous, research-intensive Ph.D. program in molecular and cellular biology.

VAI is committed to excellence through broad participation and diverse perspectives. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences who share our passion for innovation and collaboration.

Van Andel Institute is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) Employer.

As Van Andel Institute is a drug free employer, all prospective new employees undergo a urinalysis/drug test as part of our pre-employment process. This is a 7-panel drug screen and it includes testing for Marijuana, Cocaine, Amphetamines, Opiates, PCP, Barbiturates, and Benzodiazepines.

About Grand Rapids, MI

Van Andel Institute is in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan in the center of the Medical Mile. A remarkable combination of a cosmopolitan atmosphere and small-town warmth, Grand Rapids is known for its philanthropic and sustainability-driven community. It's fun affordable and family-friendly.

Located on the banks of the Grand River, Grand Rapids offers all the big-city excitement you'd expect from a million-resident metropolis, featuring hundreds of restaurants and nightspots, theaters, museums, sports and concerts. The safe and clean downtown is surrounded by an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas. The downtown area is safe and clean with an eclectic mix of walkable neighborhoods and natural areas.