Communications Coordinator, Physical Sciences and Engineering (Hybrid)

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory seeks a communications coordinator with a strong science communications background to support its Physical Sciences and Engineering organization. The position reports to the Head of Physical Sciences and Engineering Communications.  The communications coordinator will join a small team that supports more than 900 scientists and operations staff working toward pivotal discoveries in the fields of chemistry, nuclear physics, high energy physics, materials science, and nanoscience. At Argonne, we seek science and technology solutions to the grand challenges of our time: sustainable energy, a healthy environment, and a secure nation. Join our world-class community to make a difference.

The communications coordinator will work on a wide variety of communications projects in a scientific environment, with an emphasis on writing and editing, as well as project coordination. Projects may include talking points and PowerPoint presentations for leaders, news articles and research highlights on scientific breakthroughs, web content about scientific areas and research, internal communications, and other scientific content that reports Argonne research results to peers, sponsors, and stakeholders. The communications coordinator will also help coordinate and facilitate in-person, hybrid, and virtual meetings in support of the Physical Sciences and Engineering organization.

As a member of Argonne’s Communications and Public Affairs Division, the communications coordinator will be able to leverage the expertise of teams of writers, graphic designers, video producers, photographers, media relations professionals, web and social media experts, and event coordinators.

This hybrid position allows candidates to work remotely several days a week on average. The position is on site one day a week for in-office collaboration, with additional on-site days as needed to support activities such as events, VIP visits, and media visits.

Primary Activities

• Support the implementation of strategic communications plans for assigned scientific and technical research areas.
• Write, copy edit, and proofread a variety of communications from news releases to internal memos to web copy, and coordinate subject matter expert reviews.
• Develop, coordinate, and execute communications plans and tactics, including original communications products, publications, and events related to the assigned areas’ research and operations.
• Develop and maintain knowledge of the subject matter and trends applicable to the science and partnerships in assigned areas.
• Serve as a representative of the assigned areas on communications initiatives that cross other laboratory areas. 
• Coordinate, facilitate and get approval for access to areas required for photo and video activity, and media and tour requests.
• Feed content into lab-wide channels and tracking systems. 
• Ensure that communications products align with overall laboratory messaging and branding.
• Seek opportunities to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of Argonne communications.

Position Requirements

• Demonstrated expertise in the delivery of clear and concise communication to internal and external audiences.
• Communications experience across several of the following areas: science writing, internal communications, executive communications and speechwriting, media relations, web and social media content development, and event planning and execution.
• Able to develop compelling written content for a variety of formats, including print, video, or other creative products.
• Demonstrated proficiency with standard tools and technology for communications such as Microsoft Office (PowerPoint, Word, Excel), media monitoring software, social media platforms, Adobe Photoshop, and generative AI tools (ChatGPT, Google Bard).
• Outstanding communications skills: written, verbal, interpersonal.
• Ability to translate scientific and technical content for both basic and sophisticated audiences, focusing on the impact of the work in real-world terms.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver measurable results (increased awareness, higher client satisfaction, increased engagement, etc.).
• Client service mindset, able to take in and clarify objectives and goals of researchers and leadership.
• Strong teaming and collaboration skills.
• Deadline driven, highly responsive.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
• Flexible and adaptable with highly fluid situations and strong personalities.
• Able to negotiate with all levels, and build and maintain positive interpersonal relationships throughout the organization. 
• Able to model Argonne’s Core Values: Impact, Safety, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork.
• Experien