Communications & Community Engagement Manager

Anchorage, AL

Alaska Trails

Date Posted: 6/6/2025

Position Description:

The Communications & Community Engagement Manager (CCEM) position will oversee organization-wide communications for Alaska Trails. This includes participating in the development, refinement and implementation of the Communications and Marketing Plan for the Alaska Long Trail (AKLT) project. Since its inception over four years ago, the AKLT has captured the imagination of trail-users in the state and across the world. Alaska Trails is now looking to take the project to the next level with sustained efforts to communicate more effectively about the trail to a broader audience. This position will collaborate with the Alaska Long Trail Project Manager to generate excitement about the trail and develop tools and strategies that both Alaska Trails and its partners can use to communicate about the AKLT. Aside from the AKLT efforts, this position will work with the Volunteer and Communications Coordinator in digital communication and in-person events to promote Alaska Trails programs and initiatives.

Overview of role: 

1) Assist the AKLT Project Manager to develop, refine and implement the AKLT Communications and Marketing Plan, including:

• Establish a cohesive AKLT brand aesthetic

• Develop content for Alaska Long Trail social media accounts and email campaigns

• Help schedule and manage posts across Alaska Trails social media channels, analyze engagement metrics, and suggest strategies to increase reach and visibility

• Assist with connecting the AKLT to trail apps, such as FarOut, AllTrails and Gaia

• Develop marketing initiatives to bolster user excitement for the AKLT

• Develop a strategy to effectively and transparently share recent news, accomplishments, FAQs, project information, and opportunities to participate with a range of audiences.

• Nurture media relations: assist in pitch development and distribution.

• Assist or lead in developing an AKLT specific website 

• Create marketing assets (brochures, merchandise) to boost project visibility among Alaskans and visitors, to be used by staff and partners

• Coordinate staff and contractors in the production of media assets (videos, photo stories) for the entire trail, as well as for specific regions along the route

• Market the existing sections of trail and encourage people to use the AKLT, highlighting experiences and adventures in gateway communities

• Develop an AKLT communication toolkit for different audiences: decision-makers, users, funders, community partners, and critics 

• Present at community events, such as community council meetings

• Develop a recommended timeline and milestones for implementation

2) Assist the Volunteer and Communications Coordinator with Alaska Trails communications:

• Promote Alaska Trails programs and initiatives on Facebook, Instagram, and future social media platforms  

• Assist in the monthly (excluding summer months) Trail Tales events

• Help maintain Alaska Trails website (Wix) 

• Send monthly newsletter and promote on social media 

• Help craft messaging for use in fundraising materials 

• Participate in annual marketing campaigns including the spring appeal and end of year appeal

Ideal Candidate: 

The ideal candidate for this position is independent, flexible and able to adapt to new technologies. This person will be able to identify potential efficiencies, maintain communication with coworkers and use creative methods to achieve the established communications and marketing goals. Being self-directed and able to identify work that needs to be done is an important part of the job. This position is open until filled.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 2+ years of strategic communications/public relations experience

• Bachelor’s degree in public relations, marketing, journalism, communications, or related field preferred

• Strong verbal, writing and editing skills with an ability to adapt tone and style for different audiences across a variety of channels

• Experience with major social media platforms (Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube)

• Good understanding of digital marketing, including SEO, email marketing, and analytics tools (Google Analytics, Mailchimp, etc.)

• Proficiency in graphic design tools (Canva, Adobe Creative Suite) 

• Website development skills (Wix preferred)

• Organizational skills, attention to detail, and technology skills to provide program support

• An understanding of Alaskan recreation issues

Personal Attributes:

• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills

• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in working with individuals of all backgrounds

• Ability to work independently while contributing to team efforts

• Adaptability to dynamic environments and evolving program needs

• Passion for Alaska Trails’ mission: Building trails for Alaska’s people, communities, and economy

Hours: 20-30 hours per week; Flexible work agreements possible for the right candidate.

Salary: $30-35/hr 

Location: This position is based in Southcentral Alaska. Alaska Trails is a predominantly remote work organization with an office space in Anchorage. Some travel within Alaska will be required. 

Reports to: Executive Director 

TO APPLY: 

Email the following as three separate PDFs to office@alaska-trails.org :

1. Resume

2. A brief cover letter describing your experience and qualifications

3. Three professional references 

Reference the job title “Communications and Community Engagement Manager” in the subject line.