Marketing & Communications Associate

About MPC  

Metropolitan Planning Council (MPC) is dedicated to shaping a better, bolder, more equitable future for everyone. Our vision is focused on creating a Chicago region where every community is valued, every person has a voice, and every neighborhood thrives. Since 1934, MPC has operated as an independent, nonpartisan organization serving metropolitan Chicago’s communities and residents to change perceptions, reimagine conversations, and defy the status quo. Through thoughtful collaboration with local communities, businesses, and governments, MPC is a bold change-maker, addressing the region’s toughest planning and development challenges. We believe that strong partnerships rooted in respect and trust are critical to creative and effective problem-solving.  Read More.

Application Deadline | February 17, 2025, at 8:00 AM 

Position Summary: 

MPC seeks a creative and detail-oriented Marketing & Communications Associate with strong digital media, design, and project management skills. This role supports multi-channel marketing efforts, driving audience engagement and organizational growth through compelling content and innovative design solutions. The Associate will play a critical role in executing marketing strategies, maintaining digital platforms, and creating visually engaging materials to ensure brand consistency and expand MPC’s reach. 

Supervisor: Director of Marketing & Communications 

Core Duties: 

• Content Creation and Design 

• Design and produce visually engaging marketing materials, including social media graphics, event flyers, infographics, and email templates, following established brand guidelines. 

• Support the development of digital newsletters, email campaigns, and website content, ensuring consistent quality and tone. 

• Digital Marketing and Social Media Management 

• Manage day-to-day social media operations, including scheduling posts, monitoring engagement, and analyzing performance metrics to inform improvements. 

• Develop and execute digital marketing campaigns to drive awareness and engagement, including SEO and accessibility optimization. 

• Website Maintenance 

• Update and maintain the MPC website through WordPress, including creating new pages and optimizing existing content for performance and accessibility. 

• Event Support 

• Assist in planning and executing in-person and virtual events, focusing on materials production, event promotion, and logistical coordination. 

• Media Support 

• Compile media lists, track media coverage, and support the Manager in responding to media inquiries and outreach efforts. 

• Data and Analytics 

• Generate monthly analytics reports for digital campaigns, social media, and website performance, providing actionable insights to the Manager. 

• Oversee and manage MPC list serve, ensuring it is current and accurate. 

Qualifications: 

• Must embrace the mission and vision of MPC. 

• 2-3 years of professional experience in marketing, communications, public relations, graphic design, or a related field. 

• Proficiency in graphic design software (Adobe Suite and Canva) and digital marketing tools (social media platforms, email marketing software like MailChimp). 

• Experience using WordPress or similar CMS platforms. 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). 

• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to work independently and collaboratively. 

• Analytical mindset with the ability to use data to drive decisions. 

• Demonstrated success working independently and on a collaborative team. 

• Excellent organizational and project management skills (Asana). 

• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines. 

Nice to Haves: 

• Experience supporting political or advocacy campaigns. 

• Demonstrated experience coaching and mentoring colleagues on Marketing and Communications best practices and process. 

• Experience coordinating and scheduling video or photoshoots. 

Application Deadline | February 17, 2025, at 8:00 AM 

How to apply:  

Please submit the following materials:  

1) A cover letter articulating your specific interest in the role and what you will bring to it 

2) Your résumé or CV  

Compensation and Benefits:    

Salary Range: $61,800- $64,000 

For the 2025 Benefit year, Metropolitan Planning Council’s robust and competitive compensation package for new full-time employees includes covering approximately 80% of the employee premium for health benefits, 100% of the employee premium for dental benefits, and Disability and Life insurance.  Additionally, MPC provides all full-time employees with a hybrid work environment, parental leave, up to five weeks of accrued vacation, transit benefits, a professional development stipend, and access to an onsite fitness center, among other benefits. 

EEOC/Diversity Statement:  

MPC is an equal opportunity employer and we stay true to our mission by celebrating the differences among us. We are committed to the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion within our workplace and encourage applicants from a wide range of backgrounds and of all ages to apply. We will not tolerate harassment, discrimination, or retaliation of any kind and we promote a climate of mutual respect for our employees.