Part-time Organizer for Grassroots Media Campaigns

Posted by on August 4, 2006

[emailed 8/3/06]

Seeking Part-time Organizer for Grassroots Media Campaigns

Tired of corporate control and monopoly prices of your cable service? Want more competitive, diverse, local media?

In today?s era of ultra-concentrated media and telecom power, corporate giants like Comcast and Verizon are working now to strengthen their grip on your media and limit your communication rights. They spend vast resources making government work for them, leaving us with no one guarding the public?s interests?whether it is a guarantee of affordable service, privacy, or access to local public production studios and channels.

From skyrocketing cable rates to lack of job security for cable workers, and threats to an open and democratic internet, people have more reasons than ever to be concerned about the cable and telecom corporations operating in their communities. As industry leaders, these companies should set a positive example for meeting their public interest obligations. Instead, they work to drive the standard down, routinely gouging their customers and failing to meet basic levels of customer service and community accountability. We deserve better.

Media Tank has an immediate opening for a part-time organizer to support its grassroots media campaigns on local and national media ownership and control. Work will focus on building public awareness and engagement in the policy-making process as well as the development of necessary tools and resources for successful cross-sector organizing. Coordinate with local and national allies to advance campaign goals, research and guide strategies, act as spokesperson, and outreach to new communities.

This is a unique opportunity for an experienced organizer to participate in cutting-edge campaigns that strengthen local communities, hold media and telecom companies accountable, and build towards a more just and democratic media system.

Flexible position is part-time, estimated 15-20 hours per week, as needed with the possibility of becoming full-time. Pay rate $12-14/hour commensurate with experience/effectiveness. Great for someone interested in grassroots organizing, public interest law and/or policy, community media, media reform, social justice.

Responsibilities include:
? Work with partners to develop and implement strategies
? Outreach to community groups and leaders
? Coordinate meetings and events
? Conduct press work and serve as campaign spokesperson
? Draft materials as needed (flyers, articles, press releases, etc.)
? Manage related phone and online communications
? Oversee email and website updates
? Maintain database
? Assist with fundraising and general office/admin duties

Qualifications:
? High school graduate or equivalent
? Previous organizing experience
? Excellent communication skills (writing, phone manner)
? Comfort with public speaking (to community groups and the press)
? Computer proficiency (Mac preferred) ? Word, Filemaker, email, web research, basic design/layout
? Organized and detail-oriented
? Self-assured and professional attitude
? Reliable and self-motivated; able to complete tasks independently
? Good interpersonal skills ? cooperative attitude; ability to work with/motivate a wide range of people
? Enthusiastic, able to learn quickly and ?hit the ground running?
? Commitment to social, racial, and economic justice

In addition to the above requirements, the ideal candidate will also possess skills in graphic/web design/administration/programming and/or grantwriting or other fundraising. Familiarity with non-profits, Philadelphia communities, local politics, and/or labor, consumer or media justice issues also a plus.

How to Apply
To be considered for this position, please submit the following materials to the address below:
? Brief coverletter highlighting your interest and strengths
? Professional resume
? 1-2 sample press releases (or similar writing sample, max 2 pages each)
? 3-4 references with complete contact info, context and length of time known

Media Tank is an equal opportunity employer. Women, people of color and other traditionally underrepresented individuals are strongly encouraged to apply.

Please send to:
Media Tank
100 S. Broad Street, Suite 1318
Philadelphia, PA 19110
Fax: 215-563-4951
info@mediatank.org