Science Communication and Engagement Specialist

Competition No: 2262
Department: Faculty of Science - University of Alberta
Position Type: Full Time - Trust Funded
Salary Range: $$59,224.40 to $80,437.45
Grade: 08
Hours: 40

This position is a part of the Non-Academic Staff Association (NASA).

This position has a term length of one year plus a day with a strong possibility of extension and offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Location - This position offers a flexible work arrangement, allowing for a combination of remote and in-office work based on work preferences. We welcome applicants from across Alberta. However, we will require the successful candidate to be in the Edmonton area to allow for in-person work in our Edmonton Downtown office. Preference for the schedule will be discussed during the recruitment process. 

Working at the University of Alberta

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people — from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

Working for the Alberta Biodiversity Monitoring Institute (ABMI)

The ABMI is dedicated to tracking changes in biodiversity across the entirety of Alberta, now and in the future, and provides the public with the data, knowledge, and tools to make informed decisions about the state of the environment.

Position Summary

As a Science Communication and Engagement Specialist with the ABMI’s Operations Centre, you will deliver stakeholder engagement activities, mobilize information through science communication, and develop and coordinate multimedia and social media content. You will work to understand the information needs of partners, stakeholders, and the broader community, and work on a variety of knowledge products to share biodiversity science insights and data.

In this role, you will plan and deliver engagement initiatives to gather feedback and strengthen connections with a range of partners and collaborators. You will coordinate ABMI’s social media accounts and auxiliary websites (e.g., WildTrax), create content aligned with communication goals, and manage associated digital assets. Drawing on your interest in biodiversity and skills in science communication, stakeholder engagement, and knowledge mobilization, you will create clear, accessible knowledge products that help ensure the ABMI’s data and information are widely understood and applied.

If you are passionate about sharing biodiversity knowledge, skilled at building relationships, and energized by making science accessible to diverse audiences, we encourage you to apply.

Duties 

• Draft and implement engagement plans using tailored approaches based on the desired audience and the identified level of engagement.
• Deliver stakeholder engagement activities such as workshops, surveys, meetings, and written feedback.
• Support internal communication and engagement initiatives, including newsletters, forums, and lunch-and-learns.
• Coordinate and deliver a variety of outreach products (e.g., webinars, blog posts, fact sheets, presentations) in collaboration with internal and external experts.
• Manage ABMI’s social media accounts, create website content, and capture/edit visual assets to enhance communication materials.
• Track, analyze, and report on engagement activities and social media performance to support ongoing improvement.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, biology, natural resource management, communications, or a related discipline.
• At least one year of experience in science communication, stakeholder engagement, or a related role.
• Strong writing, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
• Willingness and ability to travel throughout Alberta (infrequently; 1–2 times per season) and adhere to safety protocols in outdoor environments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with environmental, biodiversity, or natural resource management organizations.
• Familiarity with stakeholder management theory and application.
• Experience coordinating webinars, workshops, events, or engagement activities.
• Experience developing communication products (e.g., reports, fact sheets, presentations, social media content).
• Proficiency in design and data visualization tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite).
• Knowledge of content management systems for web maintenance (e.g., WordPress, Magnolia).
• Proficiency using social media platforms (Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram) and associated scheduling tools (e.g., Hootsuite).
• Valid Class 5 Driver's License.

At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms—physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of inclusivity and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.

The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.

L’Université de l’Alberta s’engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes ayant une orientation sexuelle ou une identité et une expression sexospécifique; et tous ceux qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.

Note: This opportunity will be available until midnight May 22, 2025, Edmonton, Alberta local time.