Digital Communications Specialist at Oak Ridge National Laboratory | Knoxville, TN

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Digital Communications Specialist

Knoxville, TN (On-site)

Salary Not AvailableMid Level2+ years expFull time

Posted 3 months ago

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Job Summary

Drive and own ORNL BESSD’s digital media, producing social-first video content and managing web and social platforms with cross-functional collaboration.

Own end-to-end video production and social content strategy for BESSD.
Must-have: Proficiency in video production workflows, including filming, lighting, and post-production.
Standout: Experience coordinating multiple stakeholders in a research/technical setting.

Job Description

Responsibilities

Conceptualize, shoot, and produce short-form videos optimized for social media platforms.
Develop video and campaign concepts that highlight BESSD research, capabilities, facilities, and partnerships in formats designed for digital engagement.
Collaborate with researchers, technical staff, and communicators to translate complex science topics into visually compelling and accurate multimedia content.
Edit video content using professional editing software, incorporating graphics, captions, motion elements, and branding consistent with ORNL standards.
Identify trends and platform best practices to improve content performance, audience engagement, and shareability.
Develop and manage BESSD’s social media content strategy in alignment with enterprise communications priorities, including editorial planning, content scheduling, and platform optimization.
Publish and manage BESSD social media content across relevant platforms; monitor performance metrics and use data-driven insights to refine content strategy and improve engagement.
Serve as the primary point of contact for BESSD digital media strategy, ensuring consistent messaging, brand alignment, and coordination with enterprise-level accounts.
Develop, update, and maintain web content optimized for performance in generative search environments and evolving AI-driven discovery platforms.
Collaborate with leadership, subject matter experts, and communications staff to ensure accuracy, clarity, and consistency across digital materials.

Requirements

BS degree in communications, multimedia journalism, digital media, film production, marketing, or related field with two to four years’ relevant experience.
Experience coordinating multi-stakeholder digital projects.
Demonstrated proficiency in video production workflows, including filming, lighting, audio capture, and post-production editing.
Experience creating social media content designed for engagement and platform optimization.
Demonstrated experience managing organizational social media accounts, including content planning, publishing workflows, and performance analysis.
Strong visual storytelling skills and the ability to communicate complex technical topics to diverse audiences.
Demonstrated experience applying effective web design practices that enhance usability and engagement within a CMS.
Ability to work directly with senior leaders and technical subject matter experts in a deadline-driven environment.
Strong organizational skills and attention to visual detail and brand consistency.

Preferred

Experience working in a research institution, national laboratory, university, or technology-focused organization.
Experience using social media analytics and reporting tools to evaluate performance and inform strategic content decisions.
Experience supporting communications for high-visibility leadership engagements, such as congressional briefings or sponsor reviews.

Benefits

Prescription Drug Plan
Dental Plan
Vision Plan
401(k) Retirement Plan
Contributory Pension Plan
Life Insurance
Disability Benefits
Generous Vacation and Holidays
Parental Leave
Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

4.0 Glassdoor

Oak Ridge National Laboratory is managed by UT-Battelle for the Department of Energy. Scientists and engineers at ORNL conduct basic and applied research and development to create scientific knowledge and technological solutions that strengthen the nation's leadership in key areas of science; increase the availability of clean, abundant energy; restore and protect the environment; and contribute to national security.ORNL also performs other work for the Department of Energy, including isotope production, information management, and technical program management, and provides research and technical assistance to other organizations.

Founded in 1943

Oak Ridge, Tennessee, USA

6.2K employees (106 in marketing)

www.ornl.gov

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