Job Posting: Outreach & Research Coordinator for Healthy Democracy Oregon

Healthy Democracy Oregon is hiring an outreach & research coordinator.

Healthy Democracy Oregon is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that was founded in 2007. The mission of the organization is to develop and implement innovative political reforms based upon deliberative methods of public engagement. The organization is currently focused on a reform to Oregon’s ballot initiative process, called the Citizens’ Initiative Review (CIR). The Citizens’ Initiative Review is a method of public deliberation designed to evaluate ballot measures, and provide voters with a new source of clear, useful, and trustworthy information during elections. A bill passed by the Oregon Legislature in 2009 allows for one to three Reviews will be conducted during the 2010 election cycle. Healthy Democracy Oregon is currently working to convene these Reviews in August, 2010.

Job Summary: The Outreach & Research Coordinator will work with the Directors of Healthy Democracy Oregon to refine and implement the outreach strategy for the organization’s main project in 2010, the Citizens’ Initiative Review (see additional information below). This outreach work will include community event organizing, and public relations work both with print media and online. The Outreach & Research Coordinator will also work with HDO’s Directors and Staff to coordinate presentations, and conduct background research, for the Citizens’ Initiative Reviews. The ideal applicant for this position will have both strong communications and research skills.

Note: This is currently a temporary position that is funded at 3/4 FTE (32 hrs/week) through Dec, 2010. This position will likely be continued into 2011.

Main responsibilities:

- Work with HDO’s Directors to create media opportunities

- Manage a small staff

- Coordinate small scale community outreach events

- Draft press releases, blog posts, email announcements, twitter feeds

- Liaison with members of the press

- Work with HDO’s Directors to maintain communication with HDO supporters & donors

- Manage HDO’s membership list

- Work with HDO’s Directors on a research strategy for the 2010 Reviews

- Coordinate presentations for the 2010 Reviews

- Conduct background policy research for the 2010 Reviews

Supervisory Responsibilities: The Outreach & Communications coordinator will work with the management team to supervise additional research staff, and two interns.

Required Skills:

Excellent oral and written communications skills

- Excellent interpersonal skills

- Must be able to separate personal political views from professional work and remain unbiased and neutral on research related work products and communications - Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team

- Ability to effectively manage staff

- Strong presentation skills

- Strong research, planning, organizational, and analytical skills

- Experience working in a small non-profit environment, political, or campaign environment

- Ability to travel in state

- Above all, must be an enthusiastic team player, with a positive attitude about civic engagement!

Qualifications:

- Masters Degree in journalism/public relations, public policy, political science, sociology or related field, or, Bachelors Degree in similar field with exceptional work experience. - Minimum of 2 years work experience in public relations, non-profit, political, or related line of work.

- Minimum of 2 years supervisory experience.

- Strong familiarity with communication tactics, social media, and online organizing

- Familiarity with Oregon politics and civic engagement methods a big plus.

Location: Eugene or Portland, Oregon

Start Date: Late March / Early April

Salary: Starting hourly wage is $17.50-$20.00, commensurate with experience. This is currently a temporary position that is funded at apx. ¾ FTE (32 hrs/week) through Dec, 2010. No benefits package at this time. This position will likely be continued into 2011.

To Apply: Email applications only. Do not call. Send electronic copies of your cover letter, resume, a writing sample, and contact information for three references to: info@healthydem.org

Deadline: Position will remain open until filled.

Note: Applicants will be emailed to verify that their application was received. Please do not call or email to check on your application status. The Search Committee will respond to applicants of interest directly.

Healthy Democracy Oregon is an equal opportunity employer. We carefully consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status.