Outreach and Communications Coordinator - OPS ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST I - 37979050
Requisition No: 881316 | Agency: Florida Department of Environmental Protection | Location: Eastpoint, FL (108 Island Drive) | In-person position
About the Role
This position serves as the Outreach and Communications Coordinator (OCC) at the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve (ANERR). The coordinator will assist in building connections with the community and visitors to inspire appreciation, stewardship, and commitment to protect and conserve ANERR. This is a hands-on, creative role supporting the promotion of programs at ANERR, including developing and executing communications strategies, creating marketing materials, and managing outreach efforts.
Responsibilities
- Develop and execute an annual communications plan and strategies for ANERR.
- Update media contacts and maintain partner and volunteer contact lists.
- Organize and maintain press clippings.
- Attend ORCP Communications meetings and represent the Reserve and the Northwest AP region.
- Handle public relations, including reviewing and approving speaking requests and presentations for the central office.
- Provide event links to the website and coordinate website updates.
- Develop marketing and communication materials to promote ANERR and its programs.
- Produce newsletters, radio content, and video content; enhance the YouTube channel.
- Serve as the Reserve’s liaison with the Friends of the Reserve to share stories and track volunteer hours.
- Work with Training & Engagement staff to disseminate information about training programs.
- Manage the volunteer hours spreadsheet for the Reserve and submit forms.
- Compile monthly events to send to partners and local media.
- Interact with all ANERR departments to gather information for social media posts and weekly reports.
- Take photos and videos of field activities and events; assist in outreach events.
- Coordinate with ANERR staff and regional preserves staff to write reports for the ORCP Communications Office.
- Serve as the lead on all communication and outreach efforts between ANERR and the ORCP Communications Office.
Requirements
- Proficiency in MS Office, design software such as Adobe Creative Suite or Canva, and experience creating social media reels and posts.
- At least 4 years of verifiable related experience in marketing, communications, or a related field. Post-secondary degrees may substitute for experience on a year-for-year basis.
- Foreign degrees require a credential evaluation report from an approved agency.
- Valid Driver’s License.
Qualifications
This position is designated as a Position of Special Trust. Successful completion of a background screening is required.
Pay
$21.00 per hour for 35–40 hours per week. Part-time may also be considered.
Schedule
Starting date after September 7, 2026. Application deadline: August 27, 2026.
Benefits
Eligible OPS employees may participate in:
- State group insurance (must meet eligibility requirements).
- State of Florida 401(a) FICA Alternative Plan (tax-deferred retirement savings).
- Flexible Spending Accounts.
For a complete list of benefits, visit www.mybenefits.myflorida.com. Seasonal and part-time OPS employees (less than 30 hours average per week) should refer to the links above for eligibility details.
Work Environment
The Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve is located in Eastpoint, Florida, a rural area dominated by a working waterfront. The Reserve is situated directly on the coast of the St. George Sound and Apalachicola Bay. Franklin County relies on tourism and the fishing industry. Less than 5% of a working day is required for travel within the county to perform mission-critical duties. Florida has no state income tax.