The News/Media Alliance (NMA) is seeking a temporary Communications Consultant to support digital communications for NMA and its partner organization, the American Press Institute (API). Reporting to the Director, Communications, the consultant will develop and publish timely, accurate and engaging content across social media, newsletters and the NMA website; support campaigns and events; and use performance data to strengthen audience reach and engagement. The consultant will collaborate with staff and leadership while maintaining the distinct voice, priorities and brand of each organization.
- Engagement period: November 9, 2026 through April 23, 2027
- Hourly rate: $70.00 to $80.00 per hour, commensurate with experience
Specific Duties and Responsibilities
Under the general direction of the Director, Communications, the Communications Consultant will:
- Plan, create, edit, schedule and publish content for NMA and API social media channels, newsletters and the NMA website.
- Translate research, advocacy, legal, policy, program and event information into clear, accessible content tailored to each organization and audience.
- Maintain editorial calendars and coordinate content, approvals and deadlines with staff and leadership across both organizations.
- Manage day-to-day social media activity, community engagement and timely escalation of sensitive or reputational issues.
- Support organic and paid campaigns, event promotion and live coverage, including coordination with internal teams and external partners.
- Update and quality-check NMA website content, applying accessibility, copyright, privacy and search engine optimization practices.
- Develop, format and distribute NMA newsletters and other email communications, and help maintain accurate subscriber lists.
- Track social media, website and newsletter performance; provide concise reports and recommendations to improve reach, engagement and results.
- Maintain secure, organized communications workflows, account permissions, asset libraries and documentation.
Desirable Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in public relations, communications or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
- At least six years of professional communications or social media experience in an association, nonprofit, agency or similar environment.
- Exceptional writing, editing and proofreading skills, with the ability to adapt voice, tone and format for distinct organizations, audiences and platforms.
- Demonstrated experience managing social media channels, editorial calendars, websites and email newsletters.
- Experience creating multimedia content, managing digital campaigns and using content management, email marketing and analytics tools.
- Sound editorial judgment and the ability to communicate complex or sensitive information clearly, accurately and promptly.
- trong project management skills and the ability to work independently, collaborate across teams and manage competing deadlines.
- Knowledge of journalism, the news media industry, public policy, membership associations or nonprofit organizations is preferred.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace.
- Engagement Details
- NMA's current hybrid schedule includes in-office work in Arlington, Virginia, on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with remote work on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays.
- Occasional evening or weekend work may be required for events, campaigns or time-sensitive developments.
Equal Opportunity
We believe that diversity in lived experiences, perspectives, knowledge and ideas strengthens journalism, its business and our own organization. The News/Media Alliance is an Equal Opportunity Employer, where we encourage applications from candidates from communities traditionally underrepresented in journalism and from people of every age, race or color, ethnic background, country of origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, socioeconomic background, disability status, medical condition, military or veteran status, and marital or familial status.
How to Apply
To apply, submit a cover letter and resume to jobs@newsmediaalliance.org. NMA's head office is located in Arlington, Virginia. We prefer candidates for this role who reside in the Washington, D.C. area. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States. Please mention "Communications Consultant" in the subject line so we can direct your application to the right people. Please be prepared to provide up to three professional references upon request.
About News/Media Alliance
The News/Media Alliance is a nonprofit organization representing more than 2,200 news and magazine media organizations and their multiplatform businesses in the United States and globally. Alliance members include print and digital publishers of original journalism. Headquartered just outside Washington, D.C., the association focuses on ensuring the future of journalism through communication, research, advocacy and innovation. Information about the News/Media Alliance can be found at www.newsmediaalliance.org.