Job Opening: Programs & Communications Associate

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We are no longer accepting new applications for this position.

The Programs & Communications Associate provides support to ASAN’s Operations team in event planning and in social media and communications. They will work closely with ASAN’s Programs Manager and Community Engagement Coordinator. The job is a salaried position paying $50,000/year with comprehensive health insurance and three weeks of paid time off per year. The Programs & Communications Associate will work at ASAN’s Washington, DC office when it is safe to resume in-person work, but can start remotely and discuss a timetable for relocating to DC.

Job responsibilities

Programs & Events (50%)

  • Assist the Programs Manager in planning & coordinating events, including the Autism Campus Inclusion (ACI) program, Disability Day of Mourning vigils, and annual Gala. Specific job tasks may include:
    • Managing event logistics (e.g. disability accommodations for attendees, reserving a venue, arranging catering, setting up meetings, etc.);
    • Ongoing communication with event hosts, volunteers, speakers, or other event participants;
    • Arranging travel and housing for event participants if necessary;
    • Developing presentations;
    • Coordinating staff, materials & schedules on site during an event;
    • Provide ongoing technical assistance to leadership programs alumni throughout the year, assisting in their skill development and activism;
    • Provide ongoing technical assistance to ASAN’s affiliated self-advocacy organizations throughout the year; and
    • Other duties as assigned.

Communications (50%)

    • Manage and grow ASAN’s social media presence across multiple platforms (including Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Instagram, & others)
    • Work with ASAN staff to relay information about ASAN’s work to the public and promote ASAN resources
    • Continuously follow ongoing discussions and content creators within the online disability rights community and aggregate shareable content
    • Respond to inquiries with information and referrals
    • Draft social media and email campaigns and action alerts
    • Assist with digital fundraising, including end of year and membership campaigns
    • Other duties as assigned.

Skills needed

    • Strong organizational and planning skills
    • Ability to work on multiple logistically complex long-term projects simultaneously
    • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and Google Apps
    • Knowledge of social media platforms including Facebook, Tumblr and Twitter
    • Strong phone, email, and written communication skills (this can include using AAC or other communication supports as necessary)
    • Familiarity with the disability rights, self-advocacy, and neurodiversity movements
    • Ability to work flexible and nonstandard hours, including some evenings and weekends
    • Ability to take direction, take initiative, and work in a team
    • Track record of discretion and reliability in work and advocacy environments
    • Willingness to learn about and respect the different access needs of self-advocates and work colleagues

Skills preferred

    • Experience in event planning and/or project management
    • In-depth knowledge of social media practices, including accessibility and familiarity with scheduling apps such as Hootsuite
    • Proficiency in social media best practices, including comment moderation
    • Experience working in social media or digital fundraising for nonprofits

We strongly encourage autistic people of color, AAC users, and members of the LGBTQ community to apply. Interested parties should send their resume and cover letter to houtlaw@autisticadvocacy.org.