***This is a US based remote position; The position can be based anywhere in the United States. US work authorization required at the time of application.***
About CRS
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. CRS works to save, protect, and transform lives in need in more than 100 countries, without regard to race, religion or nationality. CRS’ relief and development work is accomplished through programs of emergency response, HIV, health, agriculture, education, microfinance and peacebuilding.
With its Vison 2030 Agency Strategy, CRS seeks to catalyze development and humanitarian outcomes at scale. To this end, CRS is investing in six Strategic Change Platforms (SCPs) of which SCP1 is focused on Fostering Just and Cohesive Societies. Under SCP1, social cohesion and justice are seen as force multipliers that accelerate and amplify the effectiveness and sustainability of impact across sectors. To date, SCP1 has focused on three main areas of activity: developing a stronger evidence base for social cohesion and justice integration; piloting integration with other humanitarian and development programs and scaling platforms; and strengthening staff capacities for social cohesion and justice integration.
Job Summary: SCP1 Communications Assistant
The SCP1 Communications Assistant plays a pivotal role in advancing our mission under the guidance of the Communications Officer. This role involves supporting internal and external scaling efforts and influencing aims through a diverse range of time-bound responsibilities:
- Development of multimedia products: Collaborate in the creation of multimedia content, including graphics, audio, video, and photographic images, aligned with the SCP1 portfolio objectives.
- Drafting articles and social media posts: Craft compelling articles, social media posts, and policy papers that effectively communicate SCP1's initiatives, achievements, and impact.
- Coordination of conferences and events: Assist in the coordination and management of conferences and events hosted by SCP1, ensuring seamless execution and maximum impact. This involves event promotion, venue confirmation and space layout, branding initiatives, aiding in the creation and dissemination of presentation materials, crafting itineraries, and providing comprehensive logistical support, including documentation, participant registration, refreshments and transportation.
- Design of SCP1 publications: Utilize design skills to create visually engaging SCP1 publications, newsletters, and journals that effectively convey key messages and insights.
- Backstopping services: Provide valuable backstopping support to the Communications Officer as needed, contributing to the overall effectiveness and efficiency of SCP1's communication efforts.
The ideal candidate for this role possesses a strong commitment to social justice and cohesion, coupled with excellent communication skills and a creative mindset. They should demonstrate proficiency in multimedia production, writing, event coordination, and publication design. Additionally, they should be adept at working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, with a keen attention to detail and a passion for driving positive change through effective communication strategies.
Basic Qualifications
- Minimum Associate or Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Journalism, Media Studies or related studies; experience in INGOs or UN preferred.
- Minimum two years marketing, conference and events management and communication experience, ideally for an NGO or another organization in development and relief programming.
- Fluent in English with strong oral and written communication skills.
- Individual must possess the ability to influence achievement of results without necessarily having direct authority over them.
- Ability and desire to multi-task, and work well with diverse colleagues, partners and vendors in a cooperative and friendly manner.
- Should possess photography, video editing and basic social media skills.
- Demonstrated track record of successfully managing and facilitating conferences, seminars and events involving a diverse pool of stakeholders.
- High proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and desktop publishing skills.
- Location in or near Washington, D.C., with ability to work on-site at events
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in Adobe Creative Suite, especially InDesign, is strongly desired.
- Training in digital media storytelling.
- Background with social cohesion and justice initiatives.
Agency REDI Competencies (for all CRS Staff):
Agency competencies clarify expected behaviors and attitudes for all staff. When demonstrated, they create an engaging workplace, help staff achieve their best, and help CRS achieve agency goals. These are rooted in the mission, values, and guiding principles of CRS and used by each staff member to fulfill his or her responsibilities and achieve the desired results.
- Personal Accountability – Consistently takes responsibility for one’s own actions.
- Acts with Integrity - Consistently models values aligned with CRS Guiding Principles and mission. Is considered honest.
- Builds and Maintains Trust - Shows consistency between words and actions.
- Collaborates with Others – Works effectively in intercultural and diverse teams.
- Open to Learn – Seeks out experiences that may change perspective or provide an opportunity to learn new things.
What we offer
***Our Catholic identity is at the heart of our mission and operations. Catholic Relief Services carries out the commitment of the Bishops of the United States to assist the poor and vulnerable overseas. We welcome as a part of our staff people of all faiths and secular traditions who share our values and our commitment to serving those in need.
Disclaimer: This job description is not an exhaustive list of the skill, effort, duties, and responsibilities associated with the position.
Note: All positions requiring residence or frequent travel outside their home country must undergo and clear a pre-employment medical examination.
CRS talent acquisition procedures reflect our commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all people - especially children and vulnerable adults - to live free from abuse and harm.
EOE/M/F/D/V - CRS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. (For all US and International positions)