National Legal Aid & Defender Association

Communications Specialist

Toledo, OH (Hybrid)

Salary Not AvailableMid Level3+ years expFull time

Posted 2 weeks ago

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Job Summary

Own a comprehensive nonprofit communications engine that translates policy work into clear messaging, builds media momentum, and coordinates cross-team campaigns with measurable reach.

Own a consolidated communications strategy across websites, social, fundraising, and stakeholder outreach.
Coordinate content calendars and campaigns, track engagement, and optimize for reach and impact.
Build media relations, advise leadership, and partner with teams to spotlight programs and grant outcomes.

Job Description

Develop and execute a comprehensive communications strategy aligned with organizational goals
Create and manage content calendars, campaigns, and communications plans
Track and analyze engagement metrics to improve reach and effectiveness
Write and produce content for websites, social media, annual reports, fundraising materials, and client communications
Translate complex legal and advocacy work into clear, compelling messaging
Maintain consistent brand voice and organizational identity
Manage websites, social media platforms, and email communications
Build and maintain relationships with media and support proactive media outreach
Advise leadership on media strategy and public relations matters
Partner with internal teams to highlight programs, cases, and impact

Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or related field.
3-5 years of experience managing social media, digital content, or communication campaigns
Strong writing and editing skills with the ability to adapt messaging for different audiences
Ability to manage multiple projects and collaborate across teams

Experience in nonprofit, advocacy, or legal services environments
Familiarity with media relations and public relations strategy
Experience with design, branding, or multimedia content (photo/video)
Knowledge of email marketing and website management tools

ABLE offers comprehensive fringe benefits, including health insurance, annual leave, sick leave, supplemental language compensation, loan repayment assistance for attorneys through the Ohio Access to Justice Foundation and paid parental leave.

National Legal Aid & Defender Association

National Legal Aid & Defender Association (NLADA), founded in 1911, is America’s oldest and largest nonprofit association devoted to excellence in the delivery of legal services to those who cannot afford counsel. For over 100 years, NLADA has pioneered access to justice at the national, state and local level through the creation of our public defender system, development of nationally applicable standards for legal representation, groundbreaking legal legislation and the creation of important institutions such as the Legal Services Corporation. NLADA serves as the collective voice for our country’s civil legal aid and public defender services and provides advocacy, training, technical assistance and the NLADA Insurance Program to its members, who are comprised of legal professionals, institutions and the people they represent.

Founded in 1911

Washington, District of Columbia, USA

46 employees (4 in marketing)

nlada.org