The Rockfall Foundation
SALARIED
(exempt)
Name of Position: Operations and Communications Manager
Position Summary: Works closely with the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and volunteer committee members and other volunteers, in all aspects of Rockfall’s mission and operations, with specific responsibilities for managing Rockfall’s office and deKoven House Community Center operations. In addition, is responsible for the administration of the grants, marketing, and development programs. The position requires some weekend and evening hours, with flexible compensated time, to support events and operations.
About the Rockfall Foundation
The Rockfall Foundation supports environmental education and conservation in the Lower Connecticut River Valley. As one of Connecticut’s oldest environmental organizations, its mission is to be a catalyst—bringing people together and supporting organizations to conserve and enhance the region’s natural environment.
Rockfall, located at the historic deKoven House in downtown Middletown, presents and sponsors educational programs throughout the year, including the Rockfall Symposia, forums and workshops, a film series, family hikes, repair cafes, and informal networking opportunities; and awards annual grants, environmental awards, and scholarships. Rockfall also hosts other nonprofits in its office spaces and provides meeting space for community organizations and private functions.
REQUIREMENTS:
· Minimum of five years’ experience in an operations manager’s capacity, preferably in the non-profit sector or equivalent
· Ability to handle and prioritize multiple projects and tasks
· Ability to work independently
· Knowledge of and interest in environmental issues
· Excellent oral and written communication skills
· Excellent interpersonal skills
· Proficiency with computer applications and office systems (e.g., Excel, Word, PowerPoint, QuickBooks, Publisher, Canva, and donor database systems)
· Proficiency with WordPress, Constant Contact, MailChimp, and social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram)
· Basic videography skills
· Associate’s degree or higher
RESPONSIBLE TO: Executive Director
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:
Events & Programs
- Assist with event planning, including coordinating with partners, creating registration forms, and managing logistics for speakers, volunteers, and attendees
- Collaborate with the Program Committee to brainstorm and implement new, creative event ideas that expand community engagement in the environmental space
- Attend all events to provide on-site support, including capturing photos and videos
· Design flyers, cover images, website features, and other marketing materials for events
· Publish event details across platforms, including the website, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and partner networks
· Distribute announcements and press releases about Rockfall programs (grants, scholarships, awards, etc.) to media outlets and community organizations
· Identify new partnerships and creative marketing strategies to expand event visibility and attendance
Grants Administration
- Receive, organize, and distribute grant applications to the Grants Committee
- Create and monitor grant contracts; track and receive grant reports
- Maintain grant files, spreadsheets, and records of applications, contracts, and reports
- Handle routine correspondence with applicants and potential applicants
- Schedule grant site visits and document with photos and videos
- Manage grant outreach and publicity
Donor & Membership Management
- Manage and update donor and other Rockfall databases
- Accurately document all donations in Little Green Light or similar software
- Document and acknowledge gifts, donations, and memberships; generate reports
- Initiate membership renewal requests, track responses, and monitor success rates
- Partner with the Development Committee to develop donor appeals and membership perks
Board Support
- Provide general administrative staff support for all committees
- Prepare materials for committee and Board meetings
- Attend meetings and prepare Board minutes and committee reports
- Maintain clear communication with the Board, staff, and committees
deKoven House
- Develop an automated system for requests and online payments
- Manage room and office rentals, including scheduling, contracts, agreements, set up, door system, supplies, billing, and reporting as directed
Organizational Support
- Improve internal operations by developing streamlined processes and tools that support staff and committee collaboration
Communications, Marketing, & Branding
- Draft and design Rockfall publications, e.g., biannual Chronicle, program flyers
- Support the Development Committee with brand strategy
- Contribute to the design and launch of a new website
· Manage Rockfall’s social media presence by creating engaging posts, campaigns, and strategies for Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn
· Update the website regularly with event information, news, and resources
· Develop and distribute a bi-monthly e-newsletter featuring Rockfall events, announcements, environmental highlights, seasonal content, and local happenings
· Archive e-news content on the website for ongoing reference
- Monitor brand visibility across social media and search engines
Public Relations & Outreach
· Build and maintain relationships with local media, land trusts, libraries, and other sustainability-focused organizations
· Seek opportunities to highlight Rockfall’s work through earned media, community partnerships, and cross-promotional efforts
Financial Administration
- Process payments and pay bills with Executive Director approval
- Enter accounting and budget details into QuickBooks and other financial documents
License or Certificates:
Connecticut Motor Vehicle Operator’s License.
Physical Exertion/Environmental Conditions:
Work is performed in a standard office environment and occasionally in the field at program venues or grant sites; work involves public contact, light physical demands, and frequent use of a computer. There is some stress associated with meeting deadlines and dealing with the public.
Note: The above description is intended to be illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all-inclusive of every task or responsibility, only a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities. The position may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional, position-specific duties.
Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.
Compensation and Benefits
· Schedule: 40 hours per week, non-exempt salary position in Rockfall’s office in Middletown
· Salary range: $ 60,000 - $75,000 commensurate with experience
· Benefits: paid holidays, sick leave, vacation, retirement, and health insurance
Effective: 11.12. 2025
