Communications Coordinator

University of Texas at Austin

2d•Onsite

About The Position

As a top-10 engineering school with the No. 1 program in Texas, the Cockrell School of Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) has been a global leader in technology innovation and engineering education for over a century. With 11 undergraduate and 13 graduate programs, over 20 research centers and a faculty community that boasts one of the highest number of National Academy of Engineering members among U.S. universities, Texas Engineering has launched some of the nation’s most accomplished leaders and pioneered world-changing solutions in virtually every industry, from space exploration to energy to health care. Situated in the heart of Austin — named “America’s Coolest City” by Expedia and “The Best Place to Live in the U.S.” by U.S. News and World Report — the Cockrell School embodies the city’s innovative spirit. Major companies with Austin campuses, such as Dell, National Instruments, Apple, IBM, Samsung, Google and many others, continue to recruit Cockrell School students at a remarkable rate, launching thousands of successful careers and developing Texas Engineers into industry leaders. The Hildebrand Department of Petroleum and Geosystems Engineering (PGE) seeks a Communications Coordinator to lead and execute strategic communications that advance the department’s mission in education, research, and service. This role plays a central part in shaping how PGE’s research, academic programs, people, and impact are communicated to internal and external audiences. The Communications Coordinator works closely with department leadership, faculty, and staff to develop compelling, high-quality communications that enhance the department’s # 1 international ranking. The Communications Coordinator supports the mission of the Hildebrand Department of Petroleum and Geosystems Engineering (PGE) by translating complex technical work into clear, engaging stories and materials that resonate with various audiences including prospective students, alumni, industry partners, donors, and peer institutions. As energy systems evolve to address global challenges related to sustainability, security, and affordability, PGE is positioned at the forefront of innovation in subsurface engineering. Therefore, the Communications Coordinator should have interest in science and technology topics and inquisitive mindset and a highly collaborative work style. The role is that of an individual contributor that occasionally manages vendors and freelancers (or students).

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, or a related field.
Seven years of professional experience in public relations, communications, or writing and editing publications.
Minimum two years of experience managing professional social media accounts, including LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Instagram, and Facebook.
Expert knowledge of English grammar, spelling, capitalization, and punctuation, with the ability to write concise, error-free prose.
Strong writing, interviewing, and editing skills, including proficiency in AP Style and the ability to convey complex technical material clearly to diverse audiences.
Expert-level proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook; proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
Proficiency in Wordpress (or a related content management system).
Experience with template-based graphic design and visual communications for print and digital media.
Demonstrated experience developing and executing communications for a variety of audiences.
Experience managing multiple projects and deadlines, with the ability to prioritize effectively.
Ability to work collaboratively and independently with minimal supervision, demonstrating professionalism and attention to detail.
Interest in science, technology and related fields
Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Communications, Journalism, or a related field.
More than seven years of professional experience in communications, marketing, or related roles.
Experience supporting communications in an academic, research, or technical environment.
Experience with media relations and strategic storytelling.
Ability to tailor writing to different audiences and situations.
Photography or video experience is a plus.
Familiarity with the organizational structures, processes and procedures of The University of Texas at Austin or another institution of higher education.

Responsibilities

Develop, coordinate, and implement a cohesive communications strategy aligned with departmental priorities and leadership direction.
Anticipate communication needs related to academic programs, research initiatives, faculty and student achievements, alumni engagement, and departmental milestones.
Regularly assess communication channels and tools to ensure effectiveness and relevance.
Create and oversee high-quality written and visual communications that highlight PGE’s research, educational programs, faculty expertise, student experience, and alumni impact.
Produce content such as feature stories, newsletters, reports, presentations, digital communications, and marketing materials that reflect the department’s brand and values.
Translate complex research and technical topics into accessible narratives for broad audiences.
Guide the development and upkeep of the department’s digital presence, including online content, digital signage, and social platforms, ensuring consistency with university branding and messaging standards.
Identify opportunities to enhance visibility and engagement through thoughtful use of digital and visual media.
Support and strengthen the PGE brand by ensuring consistent messaging and visual identity across communications.
Serve as a departmental point of contact for media-related requests, working in coordination with Cockrell School and University communications teams to support appropriate coverage of faculty research, awards, and initiatives.
Manage multiple communications projects simultaneously, coordinating with faculty, staff, students, vendors, and campus partners as needed.
Provide communications support for departmental initiatives and programs, ensuring materials are accurate, timely, and professionally executed.