Media and Outreach Specialist

Responsibilities

• Plan and publish regular content for MOTHRA’s Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube Shorts accounts.

• Develop accessible and engaging updates about construction, scientific publications, and other project milestones

• Write and publish concise, image-rich news and blog posts for the MOTHRA website.

• Use social media content to direct audiences to longer-form content on the website.

• Source, organize, and prepare photographs, short videos, astronomical images, and other visual content provided by the team.

• Develop occasional newsletter content, including email distribution if a subscriber list is established.

• Support the preparation, organization, and distribution of press releases in coordination with the team and relevant partner organizations.

• Develop a monthly communications plan based on upcoming project activities and priorities.

• Maintain lightweight tracking of published content, media coverage, engagement, and audience growth.

• Consult with team members to ensure technical content is accurate and sensitive information is handled appropriately.

As time and project priorities permit, the role may also include:

• Producing occasional longer-form YouTube videos, approximately 8-10 minutes in length.

• Supporting collaborations with established science, astronomy, astrophotography, or filmmaking content creators.

• Coordinating podcast, interview, and other media opportunities.

• Preparing background information, summaries, quotes, and image packages for journalists and partner press offices.

Qualifications & Assets

Qualifications:

• Demonstrated experience creating science, nature, or technology content for public audiences through social media, web, video, broadcast, education, or similar channels.

• Strong writing and editing skills, with the ability to translate technical material into clear, accurate, and engaging content.

• Practical experience sourcing or creating visual content, completing basic video editing, and publishing content across web and social media platforms.

• Excellent communication, time management, and organizational skills.

• Ability to plan and manage a regular content schedule independently.

• Sound judgment about when to work independently and when to consult the project team regarding technical or sensitive material.

• Enthusiasm for astronomy, science communication, and the night sky.

• Education or professional experience in science communication, communications, journalism, education, content creation, or a related field.




Assets:

• Familiarity with astrophotography and the astrophotography community.

• Experience communicating astronomy or other areas of scientific research.

• Experience working with journalists, press offices, press releases, or media embargoes.

• An established network or presence in astronomy-focused media or content creation.

• Involvement in astronomy clubs, public outreach, or education.

• Experience working in a start-up or start-up-like environment.

What we offer

• Flexible working hours and location. The FRO is goal-oriented and most of the team works remotely, with occasional in-person team meetings. 

• A baseline commitment of approximately 16 hours per week, with the possibility of additional hours around major milestones, planned in advance.

• Competitive compensation of USD $40 to 50 per hour, adjusted based on experience and location.

How to apply

Please apply through our online application portal with:

• A short cover letter

• Your resume or CV