Communications Assistant

About the Role

CPWR – The Center for Construction Research and Training is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving safety in the construction sector. Based in Silver Spring, Maryland, CPWR conducts research, development, and training to reduce work-related injuries and fatalities in construction. We are seeking a full-time Communications Assistant to collaborate with staff and external stakeholders to create and distribute diverse communications that enhance engagement within the construction industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with staff, researchers, and industry members to craft publications and campaign materials that improve awareness of safety hazards and solutions.
• Manage and develop website content.
• Create and manage email marketing messages and contact lists.
• Proofread and edit materials for accuracy, grammar, tone consistency, and effective message delivery.
• Assist in researching and producing content for reports, educational resources, articles, news, and press releases.
• Help design, format, and layout various publications and materials.
• Support media relations by developing background documents and identifying publicity opportunities.
• Identify and maintain a library of photographs and graphics for print and online use.
• Promote CPWR’s resources at industry events and conferences.
• Contribute to social media efforts by creating graphics for digital channels.
• Track outreach metrics using Google Analytics, Google Tag Manager, YouTube analytics, and other tools.
• Coordinate and support CPWR's monthly Informational Webinar Series, including attendance tracking and communications, and provide on-air hosting assistance.
• Translate communications such as resources, surveys, and social media messages from English to Spanish, if bilingual.

Qualifications

• Minimum three years of relevant experience in communications through professional, volunteer, or academic roles.
• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Health Communications, or a related discipline.
• Proficient with website content management systems, especially WordPress; experience with Salesforce or databases; and familiarity with email marketing platforms like Constant Contact.
• Strong skills in writing, editing, proofreading, and verbal communication.
• Basic graphic design knowledge for creating educational and promotional visuals like infographics and social media graphics.
• Experience using Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, or equivalent design software for developing resources.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to work effectively with various staff levels and external partners and to represent CPWR publicly.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented with the ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Capable of working independently and taking initiative while also following direction.
• Positive mindset with adaptability to evolving priorities and responsibilities.
• Willingness to travel nationally and locally on occasion.
• Spanish language proficiency is advantageous.

Compensation and Benefits

• Annual salary approximately $60,000 depending on qualifications and experience.
• Comprehensive benefits including employer-supported medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage for employees and dependents.
• Participation in AFL-CIO defined benefit pension plan with vesting after three years.
• Access to AFL-CIO 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and 13 holidays annually.
• Flexible hybrid work model with 2-3 days weekly onsite and the remainder remote.
• Relaxed work environment with a 35-hour workweek.

Additional Information

CPWR does not provide work visa sponsorship. Interested candidates should submit a résumé, cover letter detailing relevant experience and salary expectations, plus two recent writing samples via email. The organization emphasizes equal employment opportunities.