Communications Specialist

Communications SpecialistAs the Communications Specialist at Barber National Institute, you will play a key role in advancing the organization's mission through storytelling, donor engagement, media relations, and strategic communications. This position supports BNI's Advancement team by developing compelling content that highlights the impact of our programs, strengthens relationships with donors and community partners, and enhances internal and external awareness of the organization's work.The Communications Specialist will collaborate with staff across the organization to identify and share meaningful stories through a variety of channels, including newsletters, magazines, donor communications, press releases, social media campaigns, podcasts, website content, and fundraising initiatives. This role is ideal for an energetic, relationship-focused communicator who is passionate about mission-driven work and enjoys connecting people to a purpose through authentic storytelling.This is a full-time, salaried exempt hybrid position. Erie, PA is preferred, though candidates in the Pittsburgh or Philadelphia areas will be considered.The ideal candidate will have strong writing skills, nonprofit or community-based organization experience, and a genuine passion for helping others understand the impact of Barber National Institute's programs and services.What You'll Bring:Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills with the ability to tailor messages for different audiencesStrong interpersonal and relationship-building skills with the confidence to interview staff, donors, families, and community membersAn engaging, energetic, and collaborative approach to communications and stakeholder engagementCreativity and curiosity in identifying stories that showcase mission impactExcellent organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneouslyStrong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality communications materialsInitiative and self-direction with the ability to work independently and proactively identify opportunitiesStrong communication skills with the ability to build relationships across all levels of the organizationPassion for community-based organizations and mission-driven workWhat You'll Have:Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, English, or a related field1–5 years of professional communications, public relations, marketing, journalism, or related experienceExperience working for a nonprofit, fundraising organization, educational institution, healthcare organization, or other mission-driven organization strongly preferredExperience supporting donor stewardship, advancement, fundraising, or community engagement initiatives preferredExperience writing across multiple formats including newsletters, magazine articles, donor communications, press releases, website content, and digital communicationsProficiency with Microsoft Office SuiteFamiliarity with Canva, Adobe InDesign, or similar design tools preferredExperience with social media platforms, content management systems, and email marketing tools preferredInterest in podcast production, multimedia storytelling, and digital communications preferredDemonstrated ability to interview stakeholders and translate conversations into compelling written contentA Typical Day May Include:Writing and editing press releases, newsletters, magazine articles, donor communications, website content, annual reports, impact reports, and internal communicationsInterviewing staff, donors, families, program participants, and community members to gather stories that highlight mission impactDeveloping compelling content for fundraising campaigns, donor stewardship efforts, annual giving initiatives, and community outreach programsSupporting donor acknowledgement efforts, monthly impact updates, and stewardship communicationsCollaborating with advancement leadership to support annual giving, endowment, and capital campaign communicationsCoordinating and pitching stories to media outlets while maintaining media contact lists and relationshipsAssisting with podcast planning, content development, guest coordination, and promotional effortsSupporting social media campaigns and digital storytelling initiatives that elevate awareness of BNI's mission and impactCollaborating with program teams and organizational leaders to identify communications opportunities and gather contentAssisting with the development and execution of communication plans for key organizational initiatives and campaignsProducing staff communications, recognition stories, mission moments, and internal engagement contentSupporting publications such as newsletters, magazines, and employee communications that strengthen organizational culture and connectivityTracking communication performance metrics and assisting with reporting and continuous improvement effortsSupporting public awareness campaigns, multimedia projects, community events, and brand-building initiativesAttending donor events, community functions, organizational activities, and program events to capture stories and contentBuilding strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders while serving as a positive ambassador for Barber National Institute's missionPerks with a Purpose Our benefits are created with YOU in mind.Healthcare • Highmark Medical and Mental Health • Delta Dental and Davis Vision CoverageHealth Savings Account/Flexible Spending AccountsTeladoc Virtual Health Financial Well-being • 401K Retirement Plan with Employer Match • On-Demand Pay • Employee Referral Bonus Program • Student Loan Forgiveness • College Scholarship & Tuition Discounts • Employee DiscountsLife & Family Support Company Paid Life InsuranceShort & Long-Term Disability Insurance • Employee Assistance Program • Erie Campus*- discounted on-site weekday childcare • Employee discounts for select BNI events and servicesGenerous Paid Time OffSeven Paid HolidaysWho is Barber National Institute?The Barber National Institute is a non-profit committed to its mission of providing the highest quality services for children and adults with autism, intellectual disabilities or behavioral health challenges and their families. Since our founding in 1952, we have evolved into a multi-faceted organization serving more than 6,200 individuals annually with a wide range of educational, vocational, residential and behavioral health programs.We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability or any other legally protected status. If you need an accommodation to apply, please contact HR. EOE Any consideration of the background check will be an individualized assessment based on the applicant or employee's specific record and the duties and requirements of the specific job.