Communications Specialist I - 529073

The University of Alabama • Tuscaloosa, AL

3d

About The Position

The Communications Specialist I writes and edits communications for a department, college, and/or division under general supervision. Develops and implements plans, activities, and tactics to support the goals of assigned areas. Coordinates the production of materials and resources through a variety of platforms, including digital and physical mediums.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree and some journalism, public relations, marketing, or communications experience.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex information into clear, compelling narratives aligned with strategic goals.
• Expertise in strategic storytelling and content development, coupled with disciplined project and production timeline management to ensure timely, high-quality deliverables.
• Builds and maintains effective media relationships to support outreach and visibility, while exercising strong attention to detail and editorial judgment.
• Effectively manages multiple concurrent projects and collaborates closely with internal stakeholders to align messaging, priorities, and execution.
• Technically proficient in a range of design, communications, and analytics tools, including Canva and Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator) for visual content production.
• Experience with email marketing platforms such as Emma and Constant Contact, as well as social media management and scheduling tools.
• Skilled in content management systems (e.g., WordPress), with capabilities in photography and basic video production/editing.
• Advanced user of Microsoft Office Suite, with working knowledge of digital analytics and reporting tools such as Google Analytics to inform strategy and assess performance.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree in Communications, Marketing, Graphic Design, Journalism, or a closely related field.
• Two or more years of professional experience in communications production, media relations, or a comparable role.
• Demonstrated proficiency with digital content tools and platforms.
• Prior experience in a communications, marketing, or public affairs role within a university, nonprofit, government, or complex organizational setting.
• Experience managing print and digital publication production from concept through distribution.
• Demonstrated experience with media pitching and press release writing resulting in earned media coverage.
• Experience with event communications and production logistics.
• Familiarity with accessibility standards for digital and print content (WCAG, Section 508).

Responsibilities

• Plans, produces, and distributes communications content across multiple channels to advance organizational visibility, stakeholder engagement, and mission alignment.
• Independently manages media asset creation, publication development, event coordination, and external media relations.
• Serves as the primary production and distribution lead for print, digital, and multimedia content and plays a key role in shaping the organization's public narrative.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees