Communications Associate - Union County Performing Arts Center

COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATE

Reports to: Director of Communications

FLSA Status: Exempt

Classification: Full-time | Salaried

Salary Range: $40,000 – $50,000



The Communications Associate plays a critical role in advancing UCPAC’s mission by promoting its programming, brand, and impact to audiences throughout Union County and beyond. This position supports all aspects of the organization’s marketing and communications efforts, including show-specific campaigns, institutional messaging, and revenue-generating initiatives such as ticket sales, venue rentals, memberships, fundraising, and educational programs.



The ideal candidate is a creative, organized, and proactive communicator with strong writing, design, and project management skills, and a passion for the performing arts. This is a hands-on position that works across departments and with external partners to help increase visibility, build audiences, and strengthen community engagement.



KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:



Strategy & Campaign Execution



Develop and implement marketing plans for performances, events, and organizational campaigns within assigned budgets and timelines

Research and support promotional strategies to drive ticket sales, including contests,

discounts, and targeted outreach

Conduct market research and use data to identify audience trends and improve campaign effectiveness

Manage organizational branding and institutional outreach campaigns (performance rentals, memberships, event space availability, volunteer recruitment, general information updates, etc.)

Media Relations & Communications



Draft and distribute press releases, media advisories, and calendar listings

Maintain and grow media contact lists; build relationships with press and local influencers

Coordinate promotional efforts and media buys with artists, agents, rental clients, and ad agencies

Write copy for email blasts, signage, fundraising campaigns, and internal communications

Digital Content & Website Support



Collaborate with the Director of Communications and Audience Access Manager to create and update website content

Ensure consistency and accessibility across digital platforms (alt text, captions, etc.)

Create outlines for posting events to third-party calendars, community listings, and promotional sites for interns and/or box office staff

Social Media & Graphic Content



Assist with developing and scheduling social media content across platforms (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok)

Create visual assets for digital and print campaigns for institutional branding and special projects using Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar tools

Contribute to content, promotional, and on-site signage as needed

Analytics & Reporting



Track and report on key performance indicators including ticket sales, social engagement, and campaign ROI

Maintain organized marketing assets and documentation

Use audience data to inform segmentation, outreach, and strategy adjustments

Outreach, Partnerships & Community Engagement



Help promote group sales, venue rentals, and special programs through outreach to schools, businesses, and local organizations

Coordinate grassroots visibility campaigns, tabling efforts, and in-community presence

Intern Oversight



Supervise communication and marketing interns; assign tasks and provide feedback to support their development and contribution

Event Support



Assist with photography, promotional material display, and patron engagement during events

Evening and weekend availability required as part of regular duties

QUALIFICATIONS:



REQUIRED:



2–3 years of experience in marketing, communications, or related field

Strong writing, editing, and verbal communication skills

Experience with social media scheduling tools (e.g., Meta Planner, Hootsuite, Buffer)

Proficiency in Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar design tools

Highly organized and detail-oriented with excellent time management skills

Ability to work independently and collaboratively across teams

Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed

A passion for the performing arts and audience engagement

Preferred:



Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree in marketing, communications, or related field (or equivalent experience)

Experience in nonprofit or performing arts environments

Familiarity with CRM or email marketing platforms (e.g., Constant Contact, Mailchimp)

Basic understanding of data analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics)

Bilingual or multicultural background a plus

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:



This position requires extended periods of computer use, occasional lifting (up to 15 lbs), and mobility to move materials and assist at events. Visual acuity to read print and digital content is essential. Reasonable accommodations will be made in accordance with ADA requirements.



WORK ENVIRONMENT:



This position operates in a professional performing arts environment, including box office, administrative offices, and lobby/public areas. The employee will interact regularly with patrons, staff, artists, volunteers, and clients. The position requires a flexible schedule, including regular evening, weekend, and holiday shifts aligned with the venue’s programming calendar.



COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:



This is a full-time, exempt position with an annual salary range of $40,000 to $50,000, commensurate with experience. The benefits package may include access to health insurance, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. This position is covered under UCPAC’s Workers’ Compensation insurance as required by New Jersey state law.



EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT:



UCPAC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. UCPAC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law
Salary: $40,000-$50,000