The Mississippi Association of Educators (MAE) is the most powerful professional association for educators in our state and an affiliate of the National Education Association. We are dedicated to improving the teaching profession and strengthening Mississippi’s public schools. We are guided by the vision of providing a great public school for every child. We exist to support, protect, and strengthen those who nurture Mississippi’s children.
A successful candidate must possess the ability to develop a strategic communications plan, draft, design, and distribute internal and external communications materials, utilize online social media and traditional media channels to uplift MAE’s vision, mission, and initiatives, and upkeep a working relationship with MAE leaders, members of the media, and community allies.
Job Responsibilities
- Develop and implement a strategic communications plan incorporating components such as issue identification, execution of briefings and trainings, and in-person and online advocacy actions.
- Develop Talking Points, press releases/advisories as needed by the state office and local leaders
- Support the successful execution of MAE’s events and programs through communications assistance
- Draft, post, and email MAE’s digital newsletter
- Update the MAE website and social channels (Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter) regularly
- Design flyers as needed
- Email the MAE membership list regularly with news, updates, and urgent communications content
- Lead the research of public affairs information and drafting of presentations as needed
- Actively upkeep and develop relationships with members of the media
- Other duties as assigned by Executive Director
Job Requirements
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills including presentation skills
- Demonstrated skill in working both independently and collaboratively in a team environment
- Commitment to ongoing learning through independent study and openness to new ideas and methods
- Ability to be flexible - shifting priorities/resources with a positive attitude
- Excellent organizational and time management skills
- Availability to work evenings and weekends
- Experience and demonstrated effectiveness in advocacy and issue organizing
- Ability to work well with people from varied backgrounds and positions. (i.e., members, community, administrators, superintendents, and school boards)
- Comfortable with the use and implementation of technology to engage members
- Experience as an effective trainer and organizer in membership, leadership development, professional issues, and political issues
- Experience in community relations and community coalition building
- Pre-K-12 public education experience preferred
A strong candidate will possess the following characteristics and personal strengths:
- Self-starter
- Strong work ethic
- Strong personal and professional characteristics such as flexibility, integrity, time management, assertiveness, decisiveness, and a sense of responsibility
- Ability to work effectively in an environment with limited supervision and to be an effective team player
- Proven ability to use good judgment in decision-making
- Dependable and committed advocate for all association members and their needs as public education employees
- Ability to anticipate organizing opportunities and future organizational trends
- Committed and able to drive long distances
- Proven people skills, a sense of humor, and a “can do” attitude
Additional Information:
This position will be a salaried bargaining unit position beginning on the hire date. The base salary range for the position is $45,000-$50,000 with the salary offer incorporating the chosen candidate’s work history and relevant professional experience. A range of fringe benefits will include retirement, dental insurance, vision care, life insurance, 401K option, paid sick leave, and paid vacation.
To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter to Allice Lattimore at [email protected] by under the subject “MAE Public Affairs Specialist.”
