Communications Assistant

About the organisation

Hot or Cool Institute is a public interest think tank working at the intersection of society and sustainability. Our mission is to challenge the status quo, help people reimagine what is possible and enable systemic change towards resilient societies that thrive within ecological limits. We translate science and research into action by providing key organisations and decision makers with tools, narratives and policy options. We are committed to public participation and fairness as we drive systemic change to enable low-carbon nature-positive lifestyles and wellbeing for all.

Role description

The Communications Assistant will have the opportunity to build and strengthen their communications skills by engaging in various projects that focus on the role of societal changes and lifestyles in tackling the climate crisis. Working closely with the Hot or Cool team – and under the supervision of the Engagement and Communications Lead – the Assistant will support key aspects of external communication and outreach. In addition, they will gain access to the extensive network of organizations and experts who regularly work with Hot or Cool and take part in a supportive, purpose-driven work environment.

Examples of tasks include:

• Social media support (with a particular focus on the Hot or Cool Institute LinkedIn account), such as:
• Creating engaging visuals (on Canva or similar) to ensure posts are eye-catching and representative of the Hot or Cool Institute's visual brand
• Writing professional and engaging posts that feature the work of the Institute while engaging with relevant partners, themes, and events
• Liaising with the team to ensure that the breadth of Hot or Cool's work is accurately and professionally represented in a timely and engaging manner
• Website maintenance. This includes:
• Regular updates to make sure that the Institute's most recent work is well and clearly represented prominently on the website
• Managing update requests from team members regarding projects, events, blogs, publications, etc.
• Create and manage the Institute's quarterly newsletter using Mailchimp. This includes:
• Selecting content and collecting all of the content required for each newsletter
• Managing the mailing list and promoting the newsletter to maintain and encourage growth.
• Editorial calendar and content coordination. This editorial work includes:
• Managing the publication schedule of blogs, social media campaigns, Institute publications, ensure that publication dates align and all materials are well represented across Hot or Cool Institute outreach channels
• Liaise with the Hot or Cool team to ensure that all activities are accurately represented in the editorial planning
• Support team members with the development of blogs, news articles, press releases and other outreach materials
• Content development support. This can include:
• The production of social media or similar graphics
• The production of short videos for various purposes
• Layout of simple publications, briefs or other materials
• Production of Powerpoint templates and presentations for various purposes
• Event and platform support: helping organise communication tools, and providing occasional support for online or in-person events.

We understand this is a part-time role, and assignments will be adapted based on organisational needs and the availability, interest and development goals of the successful candidate.

Person Specification

• Currently enrolled or recently graduated from a degree programme in a field related to Social Sciences, Environmental Sciences, or Communications
• Excellent writing skills and good command of the English language
• Experience in managing organizational (social) media accounts
• Experience using design tools (Canva specifically) for creating multimedia content
• Experience with WordPress or similar content management systems
• Ability to work both individually and in teams
• Openness to learning and drive to develop together with the team
• A passion for clear and impactful communications, and strong skills to deliver to different stakeholder groups
• Genuine interest in the areas of work of the organisation and in supporting staff to finding creative ways to translate technical and complex issues into engaging communication outputs

To apply, please send your CV with a minimum of 2 references and a covering letter (no longer than 2 pages) outlining your motivation and fulfilment of the position requirements to

We also encourage candidates to share work samples, e.g., writing sample, multimedia content or social media campaigns.

The successful applicant will work from the head office in Berlin.