Communications Coordinator

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About MERS

The Marine Education and Research Society (MERS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting conservation and understanding of marine ecosystems through scientific research, environmental education, and marine wildlife response. MERS is based in Port McNeill, on northeastern Vancouver Island, British Columbia, in the Territory of the Kwak'wala-speaking People.

The role

MERS is seeking a highly skilled Communications Coordinator to provide strategic direction and support to its messaging aimed at increasing environmental conservation. This position works closely with, and reports to, the Director of Education and Communications and the Executive Director. The Communications Coordinator engages with other MERS Team members to amplify conservation aims and achievements; support education campaigns; create social media content, resources, and marketing materials; analyze communications performance; and develop, oversee, and report on an overarching communications strategy. It is not essential to have previous knowledge of the marine mammals of British Columbia; initial support will be provided.

Responsibilities

• Co-ordinate the organization's communications and messaging across its blog, website, social media platforms, and newsletter, including an integrated communications and social media strategy.
• Ensure content is scientifically accurate and adheres to the ethics, identity, and core values of the organization.
• Monitor, interpret, and report on online analytics to provide further direction for communications.
• Lead the scheduling and create social media content; draft advertisements and marketing materials to promote MERS' work, conservation messaging, social enterprise, and other appeals.
• Assist with the development, promotion, and management of engagement campaigns and educational offerings, e.g. the Whale-Safe Boating Course.
• Assist with drafting and distributing media releases, coordinating media interviews, and tracking media contacts and reach.
• Facilitate supporter and donor engagement through monthly newsletters, email campaigns and appeals, and annual reports.
• Develop infographics, videos, and other content; manage website updates; assist with community events, webinars, and educational forums.

Qualifications and experience

Required – Strong, proven environmental ethic. – Degree or certificate in journalism, marketing, communications, science communications, or at least 3 years of proven related work experience. – Proven ability to translate complex scientific concepts and findings into engaging, accurate and easily understandable content. – Exceptional communications skills in English for audiences ranging from children to the boating public and scientists. – Experience with best ethical practices for social, digital, and email marketing. – Basic graphic design and content creation skills; proficiency with Microsoft Office, WordPress, Canva, video editing, Zoom, Keynote, content management systems, social media platforms, and media editing software (e.g., Adobe Suite). – Completion of the online MERS Whale-Safe Boating course (free access with coupon code ACCESSRATE). – Ability to legally work in Canada; if not currently residing in Canada, state clearly whether you have a valid work permit.

Desirable – Experience working in a non-profit environment. – Knowledge of marine mammals and marine conservation issues in British Columbia, and experience in science communications directly related to marine conservation. – Experience in communications related to ensuring respect and recognition for Indigenous rights and title. – Experience with online learning platforms such as Thinkific or Articulate 360, and with developing and managing communications strategies and budgets. – Completion of a MERS 4-day BC Marine Mammal Naturalist course (the successful candidate will be registered if not previously done).

Salary and benefits

Full-time position (37.5 hours per week). Compensation will be $27 to $30 per hour, plus benefits.

Location and schedule

This position may work in-office in Port McNeill or remotely. If remote work is chosen, travel to northern Vancouver Island for work in-office and with the team will be required several times a year. Occasional work on weekends, evenings, or holidays may be required.

Deadline and how to apply

The application deadline is October 9, 2026. Send a resume and cover letter, with three examples of professional work (media releases, social media posts, and/or campaigns), to info@mersociety.org, labelling attachments lastname_firstname. Interviews will not occur until November, with an anticipated start date in January 2027. Only applicants chosen for an interview will be contacted.