Sr. Communications Specialist

The mission of the Allen Institute is to unlock the complexities of bioscience and advance our knowledge to improve human health. Using an open science, multi-scale, team-oriented approach, the Allen Institute focuses on accelerating foundational research, developing standards and models, and cultivating new ideas to make a broad, transformational impact on science.

The Allen Institute seeks a creative and collaborative Sr. Communications Specialist with exceptional writing and storytelling skills to support organizational communications, employee engagement, and community-building efforts. Working inside the Communications department and partnering closely with teams across the Institute, including People & Culture, this position develops and executes strategies, content, and campaigns that strengthen understanding, connection, and culture.

The ideal candidate is a versatile communicator who can distill complex topics—scientific or organizational—into engaging and accessible content; thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment; and is motivated to help shape an informed and connected workplace community.

At the Allen Institute, we believe that science is for everyone—and should be open to everyone. We are dedicated to combating biases and reducing barriers to STEM careers more broadly. We also believe that science is better when it includes different perspectives and voices. We strive to make the Allen Institute a place where everyone feels like they belong and are empowered to do their best work in a supportive environment.

We are an equal-opportunity employer and strongly encourage people from all backgrounds to apply for our open positions.

Essential Functions

• Develop and implement communication strategies and campaigns that inform and connect employees across the Institute
• Serve as a key storyteller in the Editorial and Media Team, enterprising and producing written and multimedia content that highlights Institute achievements, culture, and community
• Write and edit a range of materials including news stories, leadership messages, newsletters, event content, and organizational announcements
• Partner with teams across the Institute to create clear, engaging messages for initiatives, programs, and organizational updates
• Maintain and update content for digital channels such as the intranet and newsletters
• Collaborate on Institute-wide editorial planning to ensure consistency of voice, tone, and messaging
• Identify opportunities for creative storytelling and innovative formats, including video, audio, and interactive features
• Provide writing and messaging support for presentations, talking points, and materials for leaders and teams

Note: Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions; it does not proscribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of degree and experience
• 3 years of experience in communications, journalism, or related fields
• Proven ability to write and edit clear, compelling content for diverse audiences
• Experience developing and executing communication plans and campaigns
• Strong collaboration and interpersonal skills; able to work with stakeholders at all levels
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, with strong attention to detail

Preferred Education, Experience, and Qualities

• 5+ years of experience in communications, corporate or institutional settings, or employee engagement
• Experience writing about science, research, or technology in accessible formats
• Proficiency in content management systems (e.g., SharePoint, WordPress) and multimedia tools (Adobe Creative Cloud preferred)
• Positive, solutions-oriented attitude with an ability to work well in collaborative, multi-stakeholder environments
• Strong work ethic, sense of urgency and self-motivation, with the ability to manage multiple projects and work independently and as part of a team
• Strong project management skills
• Experience with video or podcast production a plus

Physical Demands

• Fine motor movements in fingers/hands to operate computers and other office equipment
• Standing and sitting for extended periods of time

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• This is a full-time position.
• This role is currently able to work both remotely and onsite in a hybrid work environment. We are a Washington State employer, and the primary work location for all Allen Institute employees is 615 Westlake Ave N.; any remote work must be performed in Washington State.

Annualized Salary Range

• $98,700 - $134,310 *

*Final salary depends on the required education for the role, experience, level of skills relevant to the role, and work location, where applicable.

Benefits

Employees (and their families) are eligible to enroll in benefits per eligibility rules outlined in the Allen Institute’s Benefits Guide. These benefits include medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance. Employees are also eligible to enroll in the Allen Institute’s 401k plan. Paid time off is also available as outlined in the Allen Institute’s Benefits Guide. Details on the Allen Institute’s benefits offering are located at the following link: https://alleninstitute.org/careers/benefits.

It is the policy of the Allen Institute to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. In addition, the Allen Institute will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities