The United States Public Interest Research Group (U.S. PIRG) is the national lobbying arm of the State PIRGs. With approximately 500 staff nationwide, one million members, and over 100 chapters based on college campuses across the country, the State PIRGs have been advocating and organizing for public interest issues for 30 years. We research problems, write reports, work with the media, build coalitions, lobby decision-makers, and stand up for the public interest through grassroots organizing and litigation.
U.S. PIRG seeks media outreach staffer with two or more years proven ability to build relationships with reporters, place stories, and help win issue campaigns. Campaign or press experience desired.
Job Description
• Organize and execute DC press conferences and press briefings,
including development of messages, press materials, visuals and press
lists.
• Work with other program and field staff to coordinate national release of reports and other media events.
• Pitch stories to daily television, newspapers, and radio reporters,
network television and radio talk show producers, newsweekly reporters,
editorial writers, TV newsmagazine producers, and others.
• Execute rapid response for breaking news stories including writing of
press releases or statements, development of press list, distribution
of release or statement, and follow-up.
• Assist program staff in the writing, editing, and placement of opinion pieces.
• Respond to reporter requests for information or interviews.
• Update and maintain press contact databases.
Qualifications
Qualified applicants should have prior campaign or journalism
experience. Knowledge, understanding of Congress, Executive Branch, and
regulatory process are highly desirable. Candidate must be
well-organized, self-starter, flexible, creative, able to work under
pressure, able to work quickly and cooperatively on several projects at
one time. Excellent writing and verbal skills are essential.
Salary & Benefits
Salary for this position
is commensurate with the amount of relevant professional experience
that a candidate has. A competitive benefits package includes health
care coverage, educational loan assistance, a retirement plan, paid
vacation and sick days, parental leave. Opportunities for advancement,
travel, and additional training are available.
Location(s)
Washington, DC
Application
Email a compelling cover letter and resume to:
Rick Trilsch
U.S. PIRG Administrative Director
218 D Street, SE
Washington, D.C. 20003-1900
Fax: (202) 546-2461
E-mail: careers@uspirg.org for more information.
Please specify which position you are applying for in the subject line of the e-mail, and be sure to mention where you saw our job advertised.