Public Relations & Communications Specialist

Communications & PR Specialist

Full-Time | Chattanooga, TN (Hybrid Eligible)

Reports to: CEO

About Us:

We are a mission-driven nonprofit committed to help disadvantaged families build strong, thriving relationships and support systems in the Chattanooga area through evidence-based programs, workshops, and community partnerships. Our work strengthens individuals, supports parents, and equips families with the tools they need to flourish—because when families thrive, communities do too.

We’re growing and need a strategic, creative, and community-minded Marketing & PR Specialist to help us tell our story and expand our impact.

The Marketing & PR Specialist will lead efforts to grow awareness of our organization’s mission, services, and impact across the Chattanooga region. This role blends strategic marketing, public relations, and community engagement to increase visibility, strengthen our brand, and build meaningful connections that fuel service expansion.

This is a high-impact role ideal for someone with a few years of experience in marketing/PR who is ready to implement strategy while working alongside a passionate, purpose-driven team.

Marketing & Communications (50%)

• Develop and execute a comprehensive marketing and communications plan aligned with our strategic goals.
• Manage, support and sometimes supplement the workload for the Content Specialist in their role as they produce marketing elements across multiple platforms: social media, email newsletters, fliers, website, print materials, and blog posts.
• Build our media presence by pitching stories, writing press releases, and cultivating relationships with local media outlets.
• Oversee branding consistency across all public-facing materials and messaging.
• Analyze engagement metrics and adjust strategies for optimal reach and effectiveness.

Public Relations & Community Engagement (30%)

• Work alongside the FTF Leadership Team to build partnerships with community organizations, churches, schools, and local businesses to promote our services and events.
• Represent the organization at key events, media appearances, and speaking opportunities.
• Act as a liaison for media inquiries and public-facing communication efforts.
• Plan and execute public-facing campaigns that promote family-strengthening initiatives in the region.

Marketing Support for Programs (20%)

• Collaborate with program managers to develop targeted marketing campaigns for workshops and events.
• Assist with recruitment efforts by creating flyers, digital campaigns, and outreach strategies to engage diverse audiences.
• Track and report the ROI of marketing efforts for each program area.

• Obtain new speaking engagements and appearances for the CEO or a member of the leadership team  (TV, radio, newspapers, blogs, local clubs and organizations).
• Develop and implement marketing campaigns tied to program priorities.
• Build and maintain relationships with community partners.
• Support program teams in filling of program capacity consistently.

• Have 2–4 years of experience in marketing, PR, or communications (nonprofit experience a plus, but not required).
• Are a strong writer, storyteller, and communicator who can adapt tone across audiences.
• Thrive in a collaborative, mission-driven environment where creativity and initiative are valued.
• Know how to build a brand and get the community excited about a cause.
• Have experience with social media and email marketing and know graphic design basics (Canva, Adobe Suite, etc.).
• Are energized by connecting with people, attending events, and making things happen.
  

• Salary range: $55,000-$60,000 based on experience
• Healthcare stipend
• Flexible hybrid work schedule
• Paid holidays generous PTO
• Opportunities for professional development
• A passionate team that supports each other in personal and professional development

To Apply:

Send your resume, a cover letter that shares why you’re passionate about this work, and two samples of your work - one writing oriented (preferably a blog or press release) and one design oriented (a flyer, email, social media campaign, etc.) to careers@firstthings.org.