Communications Specialist

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Communications Specialist

🔹 Company: International Society of Arboriculture

🔹 Location: Atlanta, Georgia, United States

🔹 Job Type: On-site

🔹 Category: Non-profit Organizations

🔹 Date Posted: May 2, 2025

🔹 Experience Level: 2-5 years

🔹 Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Developing and maintaining content for ISA's website and publications
• Managing public relations campaigns for ISA's major programs and events
• Serving as the primary point of contact for media inquiries
• Collaborating with the marketing team to set marketing priorities and policies

ASSUMPTION: This role requires strong written and verbal communication skills, as well as the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Manage, develop, and maintain content for ISA's website and publications, including TreesAreGood.org, ISA Today, Tree-sources, and Climbers’ Edge

✅ Create and implement content and public relations campaigns for major ISA programs and events, such as the International Tree Climbing Championship (ITCC), Arbor Day, and the ISA Annual Conference

✅ Coordinate responses to media inquiries and serve as the primary point of contact for media relations

✅ Assist with marketing department project and traffic management, procurement, and invoice reconciliation

✅ Support the development and execution of integrated marketing strategies and tactics, including advertising, website development, mass email marketing, corporate communications, and public relations

✅ Work with the Director of Marketing Services to set marketing priorities and determine policies regarding ISA marketing activities, including brand consistencies in ISA marketing and promotions materials

✅ Serve as staff liaison to the ISA Awards Committee, leading marketing for awards nominations and managing the collection of nominations, committee meetings, nomination review process, award recipient notification, and fulfillment

✅ Assist with logo requests and inquiries as needed

✅ Work with the Marketing Services Director on special projects, as needed

ASSUMPTION: This role may require occasional travel within and outside the U.S.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree required in public relations, marketing, communications, or a related field; advanced degree preferred

Experience: A minimum of 2 years of copywriting/editing, marketing, public relations, or corporate communications experience required, preferably with a membership or non-profit organization; or an equivalent combination of education and experience

Required Skills:

• Fluency in English, both verbal and written
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Ability to write and edit correspondence in a professional manner
• Ability to read and analyze information and draw conclusions
• Demonstrated ability to resolve problems with grace and diplomacy
• Ability to complete projects accurately and completely within deadlines
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously
• Detail-oriented with a passion for writing, marketing, and/or public relations
• Customer service orientation with good communication skills to develop positive working relationships with peers and team members
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with a diverse population
• Demonstrated record of successful project management

Preferred Skills:

• Fluency in additional languages
• Experience with website management and content development
• Experience with email marketing and video production

ASSUMPTION: Candidates with experience in the non-profit sector or a related industry may have an advantage in this role.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $45,000 - $60,000 per year (based on industry standards for a Communications Specialist with 2-5 years of experience in the non-profit sector)

Benefits:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan with employer match
• Paid time off (vacation, sick, and holidays)
• Professional development opportunities

Working Hours: Full-time, Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (with flexibility for occasional travel and event coverage)

ASSUMPTION: Salary range is an estimate based on industry standards and may vary depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) is a non-profit membership organization that serves the needs of tree care professionals and promotes the profession of arboriculture around the world. ISA is known as the industry authority on research, education, and professional development.

Company Size: ISA has 11-50 employees, providing a collaborative and close-knit work environment where individual contributions make a significant impact.

Founded: ISA was founded in 1924 and has since grown to become a global leader in arboriculture, with a mission to advance the profession through research, technology, and education.

Company Description:

• ISA promotes the professional practice of arboriculture and fosters a greater worldwide awareness of the benefits of trees
• The organization exists to ensure that professionals, allied professionals, public officials, and consumers worldwide recognize the economic, environmental, and societal benefits and values of trees and their care at a cost that demonstrates the wise stewardship of resources
• ISA is registered in the State of Illinois as a 501c (5) nonprofit organization

Company Specialties:

• Research
• Education
• Technology
• Industry Support
• Arboriculture
• Trees
• Tree Care
• Continuing Education
• Training
• Professional Development
• Safety
• Safety Training
• Best Practice
• Certification
• and Sustainability

Company Website: http://www.isa-arbor.com

ASSUMPTION: ISA's mission and values are centered around the promotion of arboriculture and the benefits of trees, making this an ideal role for candidates passionate about environmental conservation and sustainability.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: Mid-level, with opportunities for growth and advancement within the organization

Reporting Structure: The Communications Specialist reports directly to the Director of Marketing Services and works closely with other marketing team members, as well as various departments within ISA

Work Arrangement: This is an on-site position, with occasional travel required for events and conferences

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement within the marketing department or other departments within ISA
• Expanding skills and knowledge in arboriculture, non-profit communications, and marketing
• Potential to take on additional responsibilities and leadership roles as the organization grows

ASSUMPTION: ISA's focus on professional development and growth opportunities makes this an attractive role for candidates seeking to advance their careers in communications and marketing.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: ISA's office is located in a professional high-rise building in downtown Atlanta, offering a modern and collaborative work environment

Office Location(s): 270 Peachtree St NW, Suite 1900, Atlanta, Georgia 30303, US

Geographic Context:

• Atlanta is a vibrant and diverse city with a rich cultural scene, offering numerous attractions, museums, and parks
• The office is conveniently located near public transportation, restaurants, and shopping
• Atlanta has a humid subtropical climate, with mild winters and hot, humid summers

Work Schedule: The standard workweek is Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM, with flexibility for occasional travel and event coverage

ASSUMPTION: ISA's office location in downtown Atlanta provides easy access to the city's amenities and cultural attractions, making it an attractive work environment for candidates who enjoy urban living.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Submit your application through the provided link
• Phone or video screen with the Director of Marketing Services
• In-person or virtual interview with the Marketing Services Director and other team members
• Final interview with the Executive Director
• Background check and reference checks

Key Assessment Areas:

• Communication skills, both written and verbal
• Project management and organizational skills
• Creativity and problem-solving abilities
• Understanding of ISA's mission and values

Application Tips:

• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experience in communications, marketing, or public relations
• Provide specific examples of your experience with website management, content development, and media relations
• Demonstrate your passion for ISA's mission and your commitment to promoting the benefits of trees and arboriculture

ATS Keywords: Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, Content Development, Website Management, Media Relations, Arboriculture, Trees, Non-profit, ISA

ASSUMPTION: ISA's interview process is designed to assess candidates' skills and cultural fit, with a focus on communication, project management, and a passion for the organization's mission.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Content Management System (CMS) for website management
• Email marketing platform (e.g., Mailchimp, Constant Contact)
• Graphic design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Canva)
• Video production software (e.g., iMovie, Adobe Premiere Pro)

ASSUMPTION: Familiarity with relevant tools and technologies is essential for success in this role, as the Communications Specialist will be responsible for managing and developing content for various platforms and channels.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Research-driven
• Collaborative
• Inclusive
• Dynamic
• Proactive

Work Style:

• Team-oriented
• Adaptable
• Results-driven
• Creative
• Attention to detail

Self-Assessment Questions:

• Do you have a strong passion for ISA's mission and a commitment to promoting the benefits of trees and arboriculture?
• Are you comfortable working in a collaborative and dynamic team environment?
• Do you have strong written and verbal communication skills, as well as the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously?

ASSUMPTION: ISA's values and work style emphasize collaboration, inclusivity, and a commitment to research and professional development, making this an ideal role for candidates who thrive in a dynamic and team-oriented environment.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• Occasional travel may be required for events and conferences
• The role may involve working on multiple projects simultaneously, requiring strong organizational skills and time management
• ISA's mission and values may require candidates to have a strong commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability
• The role may involve working with a diverse population, requiring strong interpersonal skills and cultural competency

ASSUMPTION: ISA's mission and work environment may present unique challenges and opportunities for candidates, requiring them to be adaptable, creative, and committed to the organization's goals.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• Communications Specialist vs. Marketing Coordinator: The Communications Specialist role focuses more on content development and public relations, while the Marketing Coordinator role may involve more event planning and coordination
• Non-profit vs. Corporate Communications: ISA's mission and values may require candidates to have a strong commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability, as well as an understanding of the non-profit sector
• Arboriculture vs. Related Industries: The Communications Specialist role may require candidates to have an understanding of arboriculture and the benefits of trees, as well as relevant experience in communications, marketing, or public relations

ASSUMPTION: ISA's mission and values may present unique opportunities and challenges for candidates, requiring them to have relevant experience and a strong commitment to the organization's goals.

📝 Sample Projects

• Developing and implementing a content marketing strategy for ISA's website and publications
• Managing a public relations campaign for the International Tree Climbing Championship (ITCC)
• Serving as the primary point of contact for media inquiries and coordinating responses

ASSUMPTION: ISA's mission and values may present unique opportunities and challenges for candidates, requiring them to have relevant experience and a strong commitment to the organization's goals.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• Can you describe the typical workweek and any flexibility for occasional travel or event coverage?
• How does ISA support the professional development and growth of its employees?
• What are the key priorities for this role in the first 90 days?
• How does ISA's mission and values influence the work environment and company culture?
• What are the most challenging aspects of this role, and how can I best prepare for them?

ASSUMPTION: ISA's interview process is designed to assess candidates' skills and cultural fit, with a focus on communication, project management, and a passion for the organization's mission.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through this link
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experience in communications, marketing, or public relations
• Prepare examples of your experience with website management, content development, and media relations
• Prepare a portfolio or examples of your work, if applicable
• Follow up with the Director of Marketing Services one week after submitting your application to confirm receipt and express your interest in the role

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.