Communications Assistant/Associate, Digital Production

Democracy Defenders Action • Full-time • Washington, District of Columbia, United States • $60k - $85k / year • 1w ago

Democracy Defenders Action, a 501(c)(4) organization

Full time, non-exempt, Washington D.C. metro area candidates preferred but can be remote for the right candidate

Organizational Overview

The Democracy Defenders family of organizations (a c3, c4, legally separate PAC, and The Contrarian) are leaders in the fight to uphold the rule of law, working strategically in the courts and court of public opinion to restore American democracy by: upholding the rule of law, safeguarding free and fair elections, and fighting corruption.

To best protect, strengthen, and rebuild our democracy, it is critical that DDA’s staff reflects the diversity of backgrounds and experiences represented in the democracy we seek to defend. Applicants of all backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

Role Purpose

The Communications Assistant/Associate, Digital Production will serve as the primary producer for Democracy Defenders' digital video content, with a focus on scaling our YouTube channel and producing the flagship series, Legal Fight Club. This role requires a nimble storyteller who can manage the full production lifecycle, from coordinating guests and editing in Premiere Pro, to optimizing content for search and audience growth.

Responsibilities

Legal Fight Club Production (50%)

Show Production: Own the end-to-end production of Legal Fight Club, from pre-production (guest booking, research, coordination) through publishing (editing, packaging, posting).
Talent Coordination: Serve as the primary liaison for hosts and guests (Katie Phang and rotating experts).
Scheduling: Establish and manage a fixed weekly release schedule while maintaining flexibility for breaking news or rapid response.
Content Editing: Perform video editing using StreamYard, Premiere Pro, Final Cut, or similar tools.
Distribution: Package and distribute episodes on DDA's YouTube channel, including writing titles, creating thumbnails, and optimizing for search (SEO). Work with the DDA communications team to repurpose and recut content for website and other digital platforms.

YouTube & Digital Strategy (40%)

Conceptualization: Working closely with DDA's communications team—including its senior manager for digital—brainstorm, develop, and produce new YouTube content, including short-form explainers (up to 10 mins) and other segments/episodes that may feature DDA experts.
Content Diversification: Assist in building a robust content calendar that includes 2026 voting and elections narrative work as well as anti-corruption work, and coverage of latest legal developments.
Platform Growth: Support the senior manager for digital in using social media and audience development strategies to grow viewership and engagement, e.g. clipping for YouTube Shorts and promoting video content across the DDA ecosystem (linking with the DDA Insights blog).

Breaking news/In the field (10%)

Pivot to produce and publish on-location or breaking-news content using the same end-to-end production workflow, ensuring timely distribution across YouTube and other social platforms.

Qualifications

2-6 years of relevant experience in digital media production (YouTube, podcasting, or videos for social media). News, advocacy, or public interest backgrounds are preferred. Previous work with a legal or policy organization is a plus.
While this role is designed for a person at the beginning of their production career, those with more production experience are encouraged to apply and make the case that their unique background and perspective will allow us to scale faster and think bigger.
Proficiency in:
Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro (or equivalent video editing software)
YouTube platform (publishing, optimization, analytics)
Basic graphic design tools for creating thumbnails (e.g., Canva, Photoshop)
Communication and Project Management Skills:
Clear and concise written and verbal communication
Ability to effectively coordinate with high-profile talent and manage multiple priorities
Ability to translate complex legal and policy issues into accessible video content for a general audience
Ability to to add value in strategic conversations through active listening and thoughtful comments
Ability to deliver under pressure and meet tight, daily deadlines
Unwavering commitment to defeating election sabotage and denial, fighting autocracy, and building a resilient democracy.
Commitment to diversity and inclusivity and an ability to work with colleagues and stakeholders across diverse cultures, backgrounds, and beliefs.

Role and Compensation Details

The salary range for this position is $60,000 - $85,000, commensurate with experience.
This role is ideally based in the Washington DC/DMV area. Candidates who are available for in person tasks and meetings will be given preference, but we are open to this role being remote for the right candidate.
The Communications Assistant/Associate, Digital Production sits in our Communications Department and reports to the Director of Communications with a dotted line to Katie Phang.
This role primarily supports Democracy Defenders Action.
DDA provides a comprehensive benefits package including 20+ days of PTO, 12 holidays, health insurance (100% paid for employee and 50% paid for family), 401K with match, tech and home office stipends, coworking space access, and recurring teambuilding opportunities.

If you are unsure about applying, we encourage you to make a case as to why you are a compelling candidate. A human reviews all application materials, and we are eager to hear from candidates who may not meet all of the qualifications, who possess transferable skills, and who have non-traditional work histories.

Democracy Defenders Action is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.