Communications Work Scholar

Aperture Work Scholar Program Position Description

Communications

Aperture is a nonprofit publisher that leads conversations around photography worldwide. From our base in New York, Aperture connects global audiences and supports artists through our acclaimed quarterly magazine, books, exhibitions, digital platforms, public programs, limited-edition prints, and awards. Established in 1952 to advance “creative thinking, significantly expressed in words and photographs,” Aperture champions photography’s vital role in nurturing curiosity and encouraging a more just, tolerant society. With a capital campaign and development of strategic plan underway, Aperture is preparing to move from Chelsea to a new, permanent home on 380 Columbus Avenue on the Upper West Side of New York City in 2025.

Department Overview 

The Communications Department shapes and executes all messaging and communications for Aperture’s marketing, press, and digital strategies for the organization as a whole, as well as campaigns around specific projects and programming. The Communications work scholar will work closely with the department Director in supporting the development of local, domestic, and international attention through integrated and creative initiatives that support external and internal communications, new outreach, and strategic partnerships. Comprising media relations, social media, digital, education, design, and exhibitions, the Department develops strategic campaigns and executes ambitious and varied communications plans to support distinct areas of Aperture’s program including publications (approximately 15 titles annually), prizes/awards, calls-for-entry, educational programs and opportunities for contributed income.

What You Can Expect to Learn

• The development of a strategic communications plan, across multiple platforms 
• A collaborative approach towards the creation, distribution, and analysis of organizational news and messaging 
• How to target, develop, and maintain relationships with the press

Departmental Duties

• Maintain accurate records of all external communications and coverage
• Help to create and update press clippings for external partners and internal staff
• Track media strategies and results for discussion with communications and sales teams
• Research new media outlets and accounts for publicity and social media influencer outreach
• Review and select relevant quotes from key media coverage
• Assist in development and formatting of press materials for print and digital distribution utilizing InDesign, Wordpress and Mailchimp
• Organize and track mailings of books, magazines and materials 
• Assist with media requests for information about Aperture’s programs, review copies of front and backlist titles, and press images
• Pitch new titles, exhibitions, and events to media outlets
• Manage and expand Aperture’s press database
• Create and distribute weekly internal newsletter
• Organize and track submissions for book awards 

General Work Scholar Responsibilities

• Further develop knowledge of photography as well as Aperture’s mission, publications, exhibitions, and programs
• Join staff and project-specific meetings as necessary
• Participate in workshops and training sessions
• Complete pre-, mid-, and post-term evaluations
• Assist at the Aperture Gala (Fall term) 
• Work occasional events 

Requirements

Excellent organizational and communication skills; advanced knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel; some experience with  InDesign and WordPress, plus database programs and e-mail marketing software (Mailchimp, Muckrack ; excellent communication, writing, and organizational skills; and a genuine passion for photography and the arts

TO APPLY 

Please apply using the link below. Please send a resume and professional cover letter in one PDF attachment and describe how your skills and experience meet the qualifications. 

https://forms.gle/6p1W44aSrX1P9YTY9

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. NO CALLS, PLEASE. Only applicants who meet our requirements for this position will be contacted. Aperture will be offering a salary of $18 per hour to start for this position. This position will start in early January 2025. This position is part-time at 24 hours a week, with Wednesdays and at least one other day required in the office. 

Aperture seeks to build a diverse and inclusive workforce and welcomes all applications, regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, cultural background, disability, age, or religion. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the heart of our strategic thinking, and reflected in the selection of artists and writers that we publish, the engagement programs we present, and our ongoing work to diversify our staff and board.