The Uproot Project is a network of and for environmental journalists of color. We have a growing national membership, composed of journalists from across national and regional news media institutions with a goal of bringing these diverse voices to the forefront of environmental journalism. Uproot is dedicated to advancing the careers of journalists of color who’ve been historically underrepresented in environmental or science journalism, imbuing the field with critical and fresh perspectives. We were inspired by other projects, like the Ida B. Wells Society, that uplift underrepresented journalists. The Uproot Project was founded in 2019 by a group of environmental journalists seeking change in the industry and launched publicly in March 2021.

Grist is a founding partner of Uproot, currently serving as its operational home. This position will be an employee of Grist but will work exclusively with and report to the Uproot Director. Grist is a nonprofit, independent media organization dedicated to telling stories of climate solutions and a just future. Grist’s goal is to use the power of storytelling to illuminate the way toward a better world, inspire millions of people to walk that path with Grist, and show that the time for action is now.

As a part-time team member, working 20 hours per week, the Audience Engagement Associate  is responsible for the management of all of The Uproot Project’s social media platforms, as well as event and membership promotion. The Audience Engagement Associate  will also help devise The Uproot Project’s immediate and long-term social media strategy for Twitter and Instagram to ensure we continue to establish  our social media presence, develop our brand tone, and increase  our social media following. This may also include researching new social platforms to better reach our audience. The Audience Engagement Associate  is also responsible for tracking and presenting analytics to inform  engagement and growth. The ideal candidate will be creative and come to monthly meetings prepared to share original ideas informed by data analysis and aligned with a larger social media strategy. 

The Audience Engagement Associate will work closely with the The Uproot team to curate Uproot’s social media feeds, ensure the promotion of events in a timely manner, and engage with Uproot members and partner organizations. The Audience Engagement Associate will also have the opportunity to  offer input  on events or other resources that The Uproot Project offers its members and the public. This position is responsible for upholding The Uproot Project’s brand tone, moderating  comments and messages, and  engaging with followers. The Uproot Project seeks  a leader grounded in best practices around successful social media strategy.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and implement Uproot’s social media strategy, including the development of a 1-year strategic social media plan

• Manage Uproot’s short- and long-term social media calendar in close coordination with the director

• Attend monthly staff meetings to discuss upcoming events, present social analytics, and share social plans

• Design  original content, source creative assets, and post content to all of The Uproot Project’s social media channels

• Create  a monthly analytics report for the director and steering committee and suggest improvements for continuous growth and impact

• Develop a deep understanding of The Uproot Project’s brand voice and mission 

• Produce promotional materials and strategic plans to publicize The Uproot Project’s events and resource launches 

• Assist in drafting event copy and press releases 

• Deliver timely, accurate, and thoughtful responses to our users’ questions and requests on social media

• At least 2 years of professional social media experience

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience

• Experience in a newsroom or journalism setting 

• Knowledge of AP style 

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Experience using Canva and/or Adobe Suite to design posts for Instagram. Experience with Reels is a plus 

• Ability to work collaboratively and effectively with culturally and economically diverse groups. 

• Demonstrated poise, tact, diplomacy, and the ability to interact with individuals at all levels of the organization.

• Ability to be flexible, patient, responsive, and willing to assist with day-to-day operations as necessary

• High level of organizational skills and technological proficiency

• Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills

• Meticulous attention to detail

• Passion for diversity and Uproot’s mission

• Ability to track, interpret, and communicate key audience metrics

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applicants must submit a resume and a cover letter explaining why they’re a great fit to manage The Uproot Project’s social media channels. Applications without both a résumé and cover letter will not be considered. 

The pro-rated annualized compensation range for this position is $23.5k - $37.5k. Total compensation package includes a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision insurance. No phone calls, please.

Cultivating an inclusive staff is central to Grist’s focus on advancing equity. We’re interested in hearing from people who can work with diverse colleagues of varied experience. Candidates of all backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. Grist is an equal-opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.