Communications Specialist Jobs in Tennessee

PURPOSE

To advance the mission of Christian Medical & Dental Associations by ensuring the quality, clarity, accuracy and consistency of CMDA’s written communications. This position serves as the primary editorial resource for the organization, manages the editorial process for CMDA Today and provides writing and graphic design support for organizational communications and ministry initiatives.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Editorial Management and Quality Assurance

• Serve as the primary editor for CMDA, reviewing, editing, proofreading and revising written materials to ensure accuracy, clarity, consistency, appropriate tone and adherence to editorial standards.

• Edit communications submitted by CMDA departments and ministries, including articles, promotional materials, publications, educational resources and other written content.

• Apply established editorial standards, including AP Style and Chicago Manual of Style, as appropriate to the publication or project.

• Identify opportunities to strengthen content, improve readability, clarify messaging and ensure materials are appropriate for their intended audiences.

• Collaborate with writers and departmental staff to refine content while preserving the intended message and voice of the author or ministry.

• Help maintain consistency in CMDA’s organizational voice, terminology and written communications standards.

• Manage multiple editorial assignments, coordinate review and approval processes and ensure projects meet established deadlines.

• Perform other duties as assigned in support of CMDA’s mission.

2. CMDA Today Editorial Management

• Manage the editorial process for CMDA Today, CMDA’s quarterly magazine, from content planning through final production, in collaboration with the Vice President of Communications and Events.

• Assist in developing editorial plans and content for each issue, ensuring relevance to CMDA members and alignment with the organization’s mission and communications priorities.

• Solicit and coordinate articles, authors, contributors, photography, artwork and other editorial resources.

• Edit and revise submitted articles and develop original content as needed.

• Coordinate magazine layout, proofing, revisions and production in collaboration with the graphic design resource and other contributors.

• Coordinate the preparation of digital magazine content and related online materials.

• Maintain publication schedules and communicate with contributors and internal stakeholders to ensure timely completion.

• Work with the Vice President of Communications and Events on editorial direction, priorities and final review and approval.

3. Writing and Content Development

• Write and revise content for CMDA publications, marketing materials, ministry communications, promotional resources and other organizational initiatives.

• Assist departments and ministries in developing clear, compelling written content that communicates their objectives and supports CMDA’s mission.

• Conduct research and gather information from subject-matter experts to support accurate, relevant and engaging communications.

• Adapt content for different audiences, formats and communication channels as appropriate.

• Collaborate with colleagues to ensure written materials reflect CMDA’s brand, messaging and communications standards.

4. Graphic Design and Visual Communications Support

• Provide graphic design support for selected communications projects and overflow work, with editorial responsibilities taking priority.

• Design or assist with the production of print and digital materials, including brochures, advertisements, promotional pieces, educational resources and other ministry materials.

• Assist with publication layout, book design and preparation of files for print or digital distribution as needed.

• Apply CMDA’s visual identity and established brand standards to assigned projects.

• Coordinate with the Vice President of Communications and Events and other colleagues to determine project priorities and design needs.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Personal commitment to CMDA’s mission, vision, values and Statement of Faith.

• Bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, communications or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.

• Strong writing, editing and proofreading skills, including excellent command of grammar, punctuation, spelling and sentence structure.

• Familiarity with AP Style and Chicago Manual of Style, with the ability to apply editorial standards consistently.

• Strong attention to detail and the ability to recognize and correct errors while improving clarity, readability and flow.

• Ability to work professionally with writers, subject-matter experts and colleagues to improve written content while preserving its intended meaning.

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple assignments, establish priorities and meet deadlines.

• Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.

• Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Cloud applications, particularly InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator, or the ability to develop proficiency.

• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with colleagues across departments.

• Flexibility, sound judgment, initiative and a commitment to producing high-quality work.

ADDITIONAL DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience in book publishing and/or design

• Writing and editing experience with a variety of print and online media

DIRECTLY RESPONSIBLE TO

• Vice President of Communications and Events

To express interest, please send a resume and cover letter detailing your personal faith journey and commitment to Christian values to CMDA’s HR Specialist, Heather Stokes, (Heather.Stokes@cmda.org) or visit cmda.org/careers to apply.