Communications Specialist

The Engineering Division is hiring a Communication Specialist to oversee all division communications. Reporting to the Deputy for Operations, the role involves planning and implementing communications, including writing and editing newsletters, webpage content, internal messages, social media posts, and materials for job fairs. The specialist will collaborate with the Physical Sciences Area Communications Specialist, the Lab’s Strategic Communications Office, and public affairs teams for press releases and news articles. Additionally, the role includes coordinating web presence and managing social media content for the division.

What You Will Do:

Communications Planning & Implementation: 

• Develop and coordinate internal/external communication strategies, track press releases, mentions, and social media to promote the Engineering Division’s image. 
• Manage an editorial schedule to identify story opportunities in collaboration with division staff and other communications teams. 
• Maintain a current list of press releases and requests.

Writing & Editorial Activities: 

• Research, write, and edit fact sheets, internal messages, press releases, journal articles, proposals, web content, and awards. 
• Simplify complex technical concepts, craft key messaging, and regularly communicate the division's research accomplishments. 
• Copyedit technical documents and journal articles.

Web Content & Social Media Management: 

• Collaborate with the Engineering Division and Strategic Communications Office to develop web content and design strategies. 
• Ensure public-facing web pages are up-to-date and well-organized. 
• Coordinate social media posts and work with division POCs on web presence improvements and training needs.
• Co-lead the division website conversion to the new LBNL format.

What is Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, physics, or related technical fields, with 5+ years of experience in technical/non-technical writing and editing for news, publications, or institutional communications, or equivalent experience.
• Proven ability to translate technical/scientific concepts into clear, journalistic-style content for press releases, social media, web, and print.
• Strong proofreading and editing skills.
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with scientists, engineers, managers, and staff.
• Knowledge of communications and public affairs principles and industry best practices.
• Skilled in using various media to engage diverse audiences, including print, digital, and social media.
• Familiar with writing, editing, web, and social media tools and platforms.
• Proficient in AP style, English grammar, and web-writing best practices.
• Knowledge of brand management and marketing.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to assess risks and communicate clearly under time-sensitive conditions.

Desired Qualifications:

• 8+ years of experience in technical/non-technical writing and editing for news, publications, or institutional communications, or equivalent experience.
• Familiarity with LBNL, DOE, and UC mission, organization, operations, programs, policies, and relevant public policy issues.

Salary:

The expected salary range of this position is between $106,000.00- $130,000.00 annually, which falls into the full salary range of $94,212.00 - $158,964.00 annually. The final salary depends upon the candidate’s skills, knowledge, and abilities, including education, certifications, and years of experience.

Notes:

• This is a full-time career appointment, exempt (monthly paid) from overtime pay.
• This position may be subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• This position is eligible for a hybrid work schedule with a minimum of 3 days per week onsite. A hybrid work schedule is a combination of teleworking and performing work on site at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. Work schedules are dependent on business needs. Individuals working a hybrid schedule must reside within 150 miles of Berkeley Lab.

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Berkeley Lab is committed to inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility and strives to continue building community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. We heartily welcome applications from women, minorities, veterans, and all who would contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, inclusion, and professionalism. In support of our diverse global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.

Equal Opportunity and IDEA Information Links: Know your rights, click here for the supplement: Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law and the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision under 41 CFR 60-1.4.