Environmental Communications Specialist

Marshall Heights Community Development Organization, Inc. (MHCDO) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in Washington, DC. It is a community-based organization that has undertaken community development activities in Ward 7 of Washington, DC, since 1979. MHCDO’s mission statement is to help grow Ward 7 into the District of Columbia’s most welcoming, prospering, livable community for everyone. MHCDO provides services designed to increase affordable housing opportunities, expand economic opportunities, and improve the quality of life for individuals and families. MHCDO has five components that comprise its economic development model: Health, Small Business Development, Housing Counseling Services, Real Estate Development, and Workforce Development Training.

Title: Environmental Communications Specialist (Independent Contractor)

Work Location: Hybrid; in-person work in Ward 7

Contract Type: Independent Contractor

Period of Performance: Upon award – March 2027

Compensation: $30-$40/hour, based on experience

Expected Hours: Part-Time, 7-10 hours per week

Position Summary

MHCDO is seeking an Environmental Communications Specialist to support a new, multi-year initiative aimed at reducing illegal dumping and advancing environmental justice in Ward 7. This part-time independent contractor will develop high-quality communications materials – including digital content, flyers, newsletters, social media posts, and website updates – to help share project information with residents and stakeholders.

This role is collaborative and action-oriented, involving regular coordination with MHCDO staff and consultants while maintaining the independence appropriate for a contractor.

Responsibilities

Content Creation

· Develop clear, accessible, and visually engaging materials such as flyers, infographics, and presentations related to illegal dumping, environmental conditions, and project activities.

· Draft social media content that highlights project activities and educates the community on illegal dumping and environmental conditions.

· Prepare newsletters and reports on project activities.

· Provide strategic insight on messaging themes and communication approaches.

· Support maintenance and updates of the project website.

Documentation & Project Storytelling

· Attend occasional cleanup events, meetings, or workshops to take photos, capture community quotes or insights, and document key outcomes.

· Collaborate with the Environmental Project Coordinator to integrate data, visuals, and, field observations into communications materials.

Skills, Knowledge, and Experience

· High School Diploma or GED required.

· Bachelor's degree preferred.

· Strong writing, editing, and visual communication skills. Communications experience related to environmental conservation, public health, or environmental justice preferred.

· Proficiency with design tools (e.g., Canva) and digital content creation.

· Ability to translate technical or environmental information into accessible community-facing content.

· Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work both collaboratively and independently.

· Ability to communicate effectively, respectfully, and professionally with stakeholders of all ages, ethnicities, and socio-economic backgrounds is required.

· Familiarity with Ward 7 (lived, professional, or organizational experience strongly preferred).

Physical Requirements

This role needs to traverse the community to meet with community stakeholders and support small-scale cleanup events, as well as consistently operate a computer and other office machinery.

Pay: $30.00 - $40.00 per hour

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Washington, DC 20019

Salary : $30 - $40