* Identify, frame and craft enthralling science and conservation stories for a range of audiences (public and professional) and channels
* Translate complex information into engaging stories, using creative flair that's appropriate for a variety of audiences
* Develop relationships with key media contacts, including science and environmental journalists, and sell in stories which generate coverage across mainstream / traditional broadcast, print and online media, and sector-specific press
* Create a range of content, both written and image / video-based, for public and professional social media channels.
Experience of working as a journalist, or in a media function within an agency or in-house comms team
* Educated to degree level, or with suitable professional qualifications / training ideally in journalism, communications or similar
* Demonstrable excellent writing and storytelling skills, including writing for public and professional audiences
* Ability to work under pressure, to tight deadlines, adapting to developing media situations
* Ability to translate complex information into engaging copy
* Strong computer literacy skills, including experience of publishing on social media channels
* A strong team player with the ability to manage own workload effectively.
Although not essential, the following would be desirable :
* Experience of using video editing software, such as Adobe Premiere Pro
* Experience of working in the science / conservation sector
* Experience of crisis communications.
From leading ground-breaking studies to protect rare giant pangolins in Uganda using the latest AI technology, to lending our expertise to help near-extinct crocodiles make a comeback in Cambodia, to planting 19,000 trees to establish a vital new woodland habitat here in Chester, to carrying out innovative species-saving research in our huge new science centre - Chester Zoo is a world-leading conservation zoo and a place of conservation in action, where everything we do is geared towards helping wildlife to survive and thrive.
We now have an exciting new opening for a Press Officer Science and Conservation. Working alongside the zoo's wider media team, you'll craft compelling science and conservation stories for a range of audiences and channels, helping us to tell the world about more of the remarkable work that happens within this wonderful place. You'll be the storyteller who helps to drive our reputation as a world leading conservation charity.
The Package
* A salary of £31,223.05 per annum
* Permanent opportunity
* 40 hours per week, predominately 8.30am - 5pm, Monday Friday (the role also requires participation in our duty rota, to provide out of hours cover across no more than one weekend per month, for which the role holder will be compensated)
* Our 128 acres of beautiful surroundings will be your main base but Hybrid working (of up to two days per week subject to what's happening in the zoo) is available as part of this role
* 33 days annual leave (including bank holidays)
* Staff pass so that you and your family can visit the zoo during your time off, plus multiple complimentary tickets for your friends and family
* Healthcare plan and employee assistance programme
* Cycle to work scheme
* Discounted gym membership
* Discounts on cinema tickets, restaurants, high street shops and more via Perks
* Pension scheme with generous employer contributions.
What makes Chester Zoo a great place to work? We're not just an amazing, award-winning visitor attraction that's home to 37,000 incredible animals inside 128 acres of stunning gardens. We're not just the UK's biggest and best zoo. We're a major wildlife charity that's committed to the recovery of endangered species, globally. And, as the world faces an extinction crisis, we're making a hugely significant contribution to conservation at a time when it's needed most.