Communications Manager

Pennsylvania School For The Deaf • Philadelphia, PA

9d

About The Position

The Communications Manager creates, coordinates, and shares communications that promote awareness of the Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (PSD), its programs, services, and mission. The role develops and manages content for PSD’s website, social media accounts, print materials, and other internal and external communications. Working closely with the Director of Institutional Advancement, the Communications Manager plans and carries out marketing and communications activities to share information about PSD, highlight school programs and activities, and strengthen the school’s public image and brand. The position works with departments across the school and external consultants as needed to gather information, develop content, and ensure communications accurately represent PSD, its students, programs, and community.

This is a full-time, 12-month, non-union position. The role generally works in standard office conditions and climate, may involve extended periods at a desk and computer, and takes place in a highly stressful environment with varied challenges, deadlines, and contacts. The Communications Manager may occasionally lift up to 15 pounds and must have the manual dexterity and near vision needed for computer and business-machine use. Attendance at PSD events on and off campus is required during regular school hours and occasionally at night and on weekends.

Requirements

• ASL proficiency.
• Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, or a related field.
• At least two years of hands-on digital marketing experience.
• Proficient visual design skills, including experience with Photoshop, Illustrator, Canva, and video editing software.
• Tech-savvy, with experience using a variety of web, digital, and media platforms.
• Highly organized and able to manage multiple projects while adjusting to changing priorities and circumstances.
• Track record of creating beautiful and engaging marketing content.
• Collaborative spirit and understanding of how to leverage and support existing content, initiatives, and contributions.
• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, written, verbal, and computer skills.
• Detail-oriented.
• Ability to read and interpret documents and write routine reports and correspondence.
• Ability to communicate effectively with parents, students, visitors, and other key constituents.
• Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with colleagues, departments, and consultants.
• Previous experience working with diverse and vulnerable populations.
• Ability to problem-solve with empathy and patience.

Responsibilities

• Manage PSD’s WordPress web platform, website design, digital content, and online payment platforms, working with relevant departments school-wide.
• Create and manage a social media content calendar covering the timing and platforms for school communications, including timely news and ongoing content about PSD’s programs, services, history, and community.
• Support development of digital content highlighting PSD’s purpose, mission, shared value, culture, and working environment for the Deaf community, alumni, donors, and prospective employees.
• Lead graphic design and print production for PSD materials, including event invitations, signage, sponsorship materials, online marketing, giveaways, fundraising campaigns, and promotional materials.
• Grow social media communities by identifying users with aligned interests, related social media pages, and partner agencies.
• Research and videotape campus news stories for school publications, the website, and media distribution, ensuring accuracy and obtaining necessary approvals for content involving minors.
• Assist with PSD World magazine and work with the Director of Institutional Advancement to assemble and illustrate content.
• Assist in coordinating global email communications through MailChimp and coordinate e-blasts to the Deaf community.
• Promote goodwill and community relations by working with outside community groups.
• Attend PSD events on and off campus, during regular school hours and occasionally at night and on weekends, to capture content for various channels.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level