[Hiring] Science Communicator @Canadian Association of Science Centres

Role Description

The Science Communicator is a key position responsible for creating scientifically accurate stories and story angles that compel people to engage with content that debunks science misinformation. The Science Communicator will use their strong knowledge of research, best practices in science communication, and their ability to explain complex scientific concepts to broad audiences to develop and write content for all platforms for the Content Producers, who will create engaging social media content based on it.

The Science Communicator is responsible for liaising with experts and partners within the ScienceUpFirst network and across the country to implement a data-driven approach to identify content ideas and source accurate information about health, science, and environmental topics. Along with all members of the Communications and Social Media team, the Science Communicator keeps themselves informed and up to date on trends, topics, issues, and misinformation circulating in their social network and local community.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the editorial team to identify, research and write briefs for online communications, including various social media channels.
• Communicate complex health- and environmental-related scientific concepts efficiently to various audiences through digital and in-person experiences.
• Liaise with the coalition of experts to ensure accuracy of written work.
• Ensure all activities address and include diversity, inclusion, equity, and accessibility (DIEA) considerations, processes, and practices.
• Ensure all activities consider environmental sustainability best practices.
• Perform other related duties as required.

Qualifications

• Degree or diploma in a health- or environment-related field, Journalism, Communications or equivalent.
• Proficiency in word processing, specifically within Google Workspace, and social media platforms.
• Experience communicating about public health and/or infectious disease to varied audiences.
• Experience with research, including literature reviews.
• Experience with data visualization is an asset.
• Experience with public speaking is an asset.

Core Competencies

• A personal interest in advancing Truth and Reconciliation.
• Dedication to continually improving diversity, inclusion, and equity.
• Ability to apply critical thinking to problems.
• Actively seek and engage with diverse perspectives.
• The ability to identify and mitigate bias on a personal, organizational and process level.
• The ability to identify and address barriers to inclusion on the personal, organizational and process levels.
• Empathy toward others and an ability to view different perspectives.
• Curiosity and interest in exploring new methods and opportunities.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and information.

Job-Specific Competencies

• Advanced written and verbal communication skills in English is required; fluency in French is an asset.
• Demonstrated ability to convey complex health topics to varied audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to read, digest, and summarize peer-reviewed scientific papers in layperson language.
• Exceptional critical thinking skills.
• Experience collaborating with internal and external partners and stakeholders.
• Experience with the process of developing content and implementing a social media campaign strategy.

Benefits

• Solution-oriented, flexible work environment that encourages feedback at all levels.
• Annual salary and three weeks of paid vacation.
• Salaried position based on a 7-hour workday, Monday through Friday, with occasional evening and weekend work when planned.
• Infrequent travel within Canada and the US is required.
• Remote position with technology provided.
• Opportunity to opt-in to the 4 Day Work Week trial.

Equity and Diversity

CASC is committed to ensuring the association is an inclusive space where community members are treated with dignity and respect. CASC encourages applications from everyone, including but not limited to women, Indigenous peoples, visible minorities, people with disabilities and persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Anonymized applications are welcome and will be accepted.

Our commitment to providing an inclusive and barrier-free work environment starts with hiring. If you need any accommodations during any phase of the interview process, please use the contact information below to request them. All information received concerning accommodations will be kept confidential.

Company Description

The Canadian Association of Science Centres (CASC) is a registered charity serving over 70 member organizations across Canada. Our members include Science Centres, Museums, Planetariums, Aquariums, Zoos, STEM outreach organizations, informal science engagement organizations, and industry supporters.

CASC's vision is to help build a thriving science and innovation culture of engaged citizens across Canada. We connect a national science engagement community that cultivates a joy of learning by making STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) approachable, accessible, and relevant. We cultivate an ecosystem approach, help scale innovative initiatives, and help drive policy change to recognize and value the informal science learning and public engagement sector.