Portland Hearts of Pine

Portland Hearts of Pine

Sports Information Director (SEASONAL / PART-TIME)

Comms & Media Relations - Part Time
Portland · ME · Hybrid
Communications & Public Relations · Statistics Communications · Writer/Editorial
$20 - $25 / hour
Note: This is a part-time, seasonal role. Hours per week can fluctuate depending on candidate situation and company need, but are expected to average 10-20 hours per week during the season (February through November).

In addition to standard writing and media relations duties (which can be completed remotely, if desired), this role will involve working on-site for occasional media availability windows at practice, and at ~20-25 professional soccer matches per year, usually on Saturdays and Sundays. 

Hourly rate: $20-25 per hour
 
We are seeking a part-time Sports Information Director who can play a vital role in promoting the club through effective media relations, content creation, and statistical reporting. Reporting to the VP of Marketing, the position is seasonal (aligned with the soccer schedule, typically February through November) and part-time (approximately 10-20 hours per week, including game days and events).

This role serves as the primary point of contact for all player- and soccer-related communications, including matchday coverage, player and team narratives, and in-depth statistical analysis to engage media, fans, and stakeholders.

This role is responsible for preparing and distributing press releases, creating game notes, and facilitating clear communication between the front office, coaching staff, and media outlets. The position oversees media outreach on all sporting matters and ensures accurate, timely information is shared across all platforms. 

The ideal candidate brings hands-on experience in sports communications, a deep understanding of soccer tactics, rules, and metrics, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities
  • Media Relations: Serve as a primary point of contact for media inquiries related to games, players, and club news. Coordinate interviews with coaches, players, and staff, and facilitate press conferences before, during, and after matches.
  • Content Creation and Distribution: Draft and distribute press releases, game previews/recaps, player bios, and feature stories with a focus on soccer-specific insights. Ensure all content highlights key statistics, match outcomes, and strategic elements to appeal to sports journalists and fans.
  • Statistical Reporting and Analysis: Compile, verify, and report real-time game statistics using tools like Opta or similar platforms. Track season-long metrics (e.g., goals, assists, clean sheets, passing accuracy) and produce reports for media kits, website updates, and internal use. Ensure accuracy and consistency in all sporting information.
  • Digital Media Support: Update the club's website with timely soccer content. Monitor media coverage and engage with stakeholders as needed to amplify the club's information.
  • Matchday Operations: Assist with media operations during home and away games, including credentialing, press box setup, and post-game reporting. Ensure accurate and prompt dissemination of box scores, quotes, and highlights.
  • Public Relations and Promotion: Build and maintain relationships with local, regional, and national sports media outlets. 
  • Compliance and Archiving: Maintain accurate records of media interactions, statistics, and communications in line with league guidelines. Archive historical data for future reference and storytelling.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with the marketing team, coaching staff, and front office to align messaging with club goals. Support ad-hoc projects, such as event coverage or crisis communications during the season.

Qualifications
  • At least 2 years of experience in sports media relations, communications, or information roles, preferably in soccer or team sports at the college or professional level.
  • Demonstrated expertise in soccer, including in-depth knowledge of game rules, strategies, player positions, and statistics.
  • Strong writing and editing skills, with the ability to produce clear, engaging content under tight deadlines.
  • Proficiency in digital tools, including content management systems (e.g., WordPress), social media platforms, statistical software (e.g., Excel, Tableau), and media monitoring services.
  • Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills, with experience handling media interactions and multitasking in high-pressure environments like game days.
  • Work nights/weekends as necessary, especially on the dates of the club’s home games.
  • Must have reliable transportation to/from Fitzpatrick Stadium in Portland, Maine.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned
  • A passion for soccer and Hearts of Pine

Preferred but not Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, Sports Management, or a related field.
  • Experience in a sports communications role at a college athletic department or professional team.
  • Bilingual abilities to support broader outreach.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.

Job Questions:

  1. Do you acknowledge that this is a part-time, hourly position, that could range from 10-20 hours per week during the months of February through November, depending on candidate availability and business need?

  2. Do you recognize this role requires weekend hours, and that you will be expected to commit to attending 20+ Hearts of Pine home game dates?

  3. Do you have any prior experience in a communications / media relations role for a sports team, either pro or college?

  4. Do you currently live within a 2-hour drive of Portland, Maine, and will have reliable transportation to downtown Portland for home games?