The SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory Strategic Communications & External Affairs (SC&EA)
division is seeking a
skilled and professional Science & Technology Communications Officer to join the Science &
Technology Communications team. The Sci-Tech Comms Officer will work with the Head of Science &
Technology Communications, other SC&EA teams and laboratory leaders in developing content about
SLAC science and technology that gives the laboratory's strategic aims visibility among key
audiences and stakeholders. The successful candidate will be a detail-oriented communicator
expected to synthesize complex information and produce well-constructed, accurate and compelling
communications to tell the stories of SLAC science to internal and public audiences, news media and
policymakers.
In addition to core duties, responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Work with the SC&EA
team, directorate leaders, scientists and other key staff to plan and develop strategic
communications; write and edit science news, press releases, social media posts, web and print
pieces. Collaborate with researchers and other SCEA teams to develop content for a variety of
digital channels. Facilitate content editing, reviews and approvals according to established
guidelines.
Your responsibilities include:
• Work with Head of Science & Technology Communications, fellow Science & Technology Communications
Officers, SC&EA colleagues and laboratory scientific leadership to plan and manage the creation of
strategic communications for key audiences.
• Write and edit science news, press releases, social media posts, web and print communications.
Tailor messages to specific channels in collaboration with Institutional and External
Communications teams.
• Develop and publish communications deliverables using content management systems and
collaboration platforms.
• Work with lab partners and on-call writers and editors to determine scope and budget of
assignments. Facilitate assignments to completion.
• Stay current on science topics and communications industry standards by attending webinars,
conferences and networking events.
• Contribute to the development of communication strategy for the laboratory and its programs.
• Collaborate with Creative Communications team on design and execution of visual and digital media
to support science communications. This includes illustrations, photos, videos and design of social
media content.
• Collaborate with Stanford University Communications, Stanford science communicators, the
Department of Energy's Public Affairs and Office of Science Communications to maximize
cross-promotional opportunities, including media relations and social media.
• Other duties may also be assigned
To be successful in this position you will bring:
• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism or Public Relations and five years of relevant
experience in science communications or combination of education and relevant experience.
• Excellent written communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with communications groups across the organization.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills in working with a variety of people.
• Capacity to write, edit and synthesize materials and communicate information in a manner easily
understood.
In addition, preferred requirements include:
• Knowledge of natural/physical sciences and science communications.
• Experience in communications at an academic or scientific institution.
• Experience and interest in developing content for a variety of digital media and social media
platforms.
Given the nature of this position, SLAC is open to on-site and hybrid work options. Minimum working 2 days on site.
