About Pioneer Works

Pioneer Works is a non-profit cultural center in Red Hook, New York City that serves as a community space for experimentation, education, and production across disciplines. Through a broad range of educational programs, performances, residencies, and
exhibitions, Pioneer Works fosters community and cultural accessibility through the arts and sciences to create an open and inspired world.

Position Description

The Science Content Strategist will report to and work closely with the Founding Director of Sciences–astrophysicist and author Janna Levin, who is also the co-editor-in-chief of Pioneer Works Broadcast, our digital and annual print magazine.

The Science Content Strategist will shape the creative vision for new science programming and media initiatives, overseeing the development of compelling content for both live event and Broadcast editorial platforms. This position will also play a key
role in supporting fundraising efforts and ensuring the responsible management of restricted science program funding. The Science Content Strategist will work collaboratively alongside the Science Producer to successfully develop and execute programs, under the direction of the Founding Director of Sciences.

Pioneer Works operates on a hybrid in-office model, with a minimum requirement of 3 days per week on site at our location in Red Hook, Brooklyn.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Live Program Strategy & Development

• Conceptualizes the live programming season in tandem with the Founding Director of Sciences
• Identifies & books speakers in tandem with Science Producer and other event partners
• Collaborates with the host to structure live programs, including pre-event research, developing the event format
• Writes copy for program announcement, socials, press releases, newsletters, and VIP invitations
• Works with marketing & PR teams to develop strategies for marketing and communications related to Pioneer Works science programming
• Collaborates with the Science Producer on the successful execution of events, ensuring contracting, financial management, technical production, and hospitality needs are met.

Editorial

• Coordinates with the Broadcast team to commission original science-focused editorial content tied to live events
• Commissions writing on evergreen science topics aligned with Pioneer Works’s mission
• Collaborates with the Broadcast editorial team to ensure science content meets organizational goals and restricted funding deliverables.
• Works with the Broadcast team to develop additional original science content, including social content, short-form videos, and other multimedia assets.

Fundraising

• Works with the development team to ensure continued support for science programming, as well as explore and secure new funding opportunities.
• Participates in grant writing and reporting to effectively communicate the need and impact of PW science programming to funders.

General

• Support the day-to-day operations of the Science department as needed

REQUIREMENTS

• Visionary programmer with proven track record in conceptualizing and executing new programmatic series
• Deep understanding of the scientific landscape including academia, research institutions, public intellectuals, and science writers
• Expansive network of scientists, publishers, professors, and authors across the sciences
• Strong writer with excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Experience working with multiple stakeholders and external partners, and ability to work independently, handle multiple tasks or projects, and meet deadlines in a fast paced environment
• Scientist or experienced science communicator a plus
• Fundraising experience related to science programming a plus
• Public speaking experience helpful, but not essential
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in public program production or editorial/content roles, with a strong emphasis on science-focused work.
• Alternatively, we’re open to candidates who have equivalent years of experience as an academic or practicing scientist.

COMPENSATION

Compensation commensurate with experience, with opportunities for growth. Starting annual salary range for full-time position of $75,000-$85,000. Full-time position includes benefits package with flexible PTO, health and dental insurance, and a 401K with company match of up to 3%.