Position Title: Communications Coordinator

Location: Washington D.C.

Reports to: Senior Manager of Communications

Travel: Approximately <15%

FLSA Status: Exempt

About the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS):

The National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) is the leading human rights organization for all individuals with Down syndrome. NDSS envisions a world in which all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations, and become valued members of welcoming communities. Founded in 1979, NDSS supports and advocates for the Down syndrome community by focusing on three key areas of programming: Resources & Support, Policy & Advocacy, and Community Engagement. Within these focus areas NDSS engages in various activities, events, and programs on topics that are critical to our community such as federal and state advocacy and public policy, health and wellness, education, and employment. NDSS creates resources to support individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and caregivers across the lifespan and hosts awareness and engagement events throughout the country including the National Buddy Walk® Program, the Times Square Video presentation and New York City Buddy Walk®, Racing for 3.21 on World Down Syndrome Day, Run for 3.21, DC Golf Outing, the annual NDSS Gala & Auction, and various other events. Visit www.ndss.org for more information about NDSS.

Position Summary

The NDSS Communications Coordinator is a driven communicator with a passion for advocacy. This essential member of the communications team will play a key role in promoting and advancing our mission through social media, publications, newsletters, and events.

The Communications Coordinator will support the organization's communications strategy, helping to amplify its position as the leading human rights organization for all individuals with Down syndrome. The ideal candidate will be highly motivated to raise awareness within the Down syndrome community and the general public through clear, compelling, and effective communication. The candidate must appreciate the power of storytelling and demonstrate a desire to think outside the box and elevate NDSS’ creativity on our digital channels. This position will be expected to produce and edit content for a variety of mediums to highlight the organization’s mission, its programs and events, and its impact.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

To perform in this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Other duties may be assigned to meet business needs.

• Create graphics and content for NDSS digital marketing efforts. A primary focus of content creation will entail video strategy and video editing specifically pertaining to TikTok and Instagram Reels
• Utilize Hootsuite, Facebook Business Suite, and other social media posting platforms to post regular, relevant, and engaging content
• Contribute to a communications calendar to accurately track NDSS social media and external communications including but not limited to email marketing and speaking engagements
• Assist the team in sourcing content as well as outreach
• Provide graphic design support to program staff as needed
• Assist in drafting and editing original content for newsletters, press releases, and correspondence
• Support the Manager of Community Relations in growing the NDSS Influencer Program
• Ensure stewardship and recognition of supporters via online channels, including Facebook fundraisers, online donors, and digital supporter recognition
• Identify opportunities to increase the visibility of our programmatic work
• Assist with PR and media campaigns including media tracking, outreach, and research
• Contribute to organizational publications and communications through copy editing
• Other duties as assigned

Education and Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
• 1-3 years’ experience in communications, advocacy and/or nonprofit work strongly preferred
• Experience producing content for Facebook, TikTok, Instagram and other social media platforms

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Exceptional written communications skills; ability to write and deliver work that is accurate and error-free
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate
• Must be organized, detail oriented and able to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Must be self-motivated and possess the ability to work well both independently and within a team
• Knowledge of Word Press, HTML, CSS and Adobe, Canva or other graphic design programs
• Demonstrated commitment to the mission and goals of NDSS

NDSS Benefits

NDSS currently offers a full competitive employee benefits including medical and dental insurance, LTD, STD and Group Life insurance, 403(b) retirement plan with employer match, flexible time off and paid holidays.

NDSS does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, medical condition, marital status, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibility, personal appearance, genetic information, matriculation, political affiliation, or any other status protected under law.