What are the responsibilities and job description for the Communications Independent Contractor position at American Ornithological Society?
Company Description The American Ornithological Society (AOS) is the world’s largest international ornithological society, bringing together a diverse, global community dedicated to advancing the scientific study and conservation of birds. AOS supports impactful science, promotes broad access to ornithological research, and provides professional development and career support for ornithologists at all stages. The organization is committed to fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and collaborative community that benefits birds, people, and the planet. Formed in 2016 through the merger of two long-standing societies founded in the late 19th century, AOS combines a rich history with a forward-looking vision for excellence in governance, operations, and scientific communication.
Role Description The Communications Independent Contractor will support AOS’s communication efforts through on-site work based in Denver, CO. This contract role focuses on developing and implementing communication strategies that promote AOS’s mission, programs, and ornithological science to diverse audiences. Day-to-day responsibilities may include drafting and editing web content, newsletters, press releases, and member communications; managing and updating social media channels in alignment with AOS’s social media policies; and coordinating with staff and stakeholders to gather stories, data, and updates. The contractor will also help maintain brand consistency, ensure clear and accessible messaging, monitor engagement metrics, and suggest improvements to outreach efforts. Collaboration with scientific, conservation, and membership teams will be essential to convey complex information accurately and compellingly.
Qualifications
Role Description The Communications Independent Contractor will support AOS’s communication efforts through on-site work based in Denver, CO. This contract role focuses on developing and implementing communication strategies that promote AOS’s mission, programs, and ornithological science to diverse audiences. Day-to-day responsibilities may include drafting and editing web content, newsletters, press releases, and member communications; managing and updating social media channels in alignment with AOS’s social media policies; and coordinating with staff and stakeholders to gather stories, data, and updates. The contractor will also help maintain brand consistency, ensure clear and accessible messaging, monitor engagement metrics, and suggest improvements to outreach efforts. Collaboration with scientific, conservation, and membership teams will be essential to convey complex information accurately and compellingly.
Qualifications
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including experience translating complex or scientific information into clear, engaging content for varied audiences.
- Experience with digital communications, such as managing social media accounts, email newsletters, and basic website or content management systems.
- Demonstrated ability to plan and execute communication campaigns or projects, including organizing timelines, coordinating with multiple stakeholders, and meeting deadlines.
- Familiarity or interest in ornithology, ecology, conservation, or related scientific fields, with the ability to quickly learn and accurately represent subject-matter content.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to work independently on-site, handle multiple priorities, and adapt to evolving needs.
- Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, and to communicating in a way that reflects and supports an inclusive community.
- Proficiency with standard office and communication tools (e.g., word processing, presentations, basic graphic tools); experience with analytics or reporting tools is a plus.
- Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, marketing, environmental science, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.