Communications Specialist

University of Iowa • Iowa City, IA

8d • $54,000 - $64,000

About The Position

The University of Iowa Libraries seeks a communications specialist who will assist with strategically developing content for a wide variety of channels and audiences. In addition, this position will provide support for engagement activities and work in collaboration with team members, librarians, researchers, developers, and campus partners to help increase the visibility of the organization and its services.

The communications specialist reports to the senior director of strategic communications and external relations at the UI Libraries.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in public relations, communication, marketing, journalism, or related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum 1 year experience in a communications role or educational role involving strategic communications.
• Experience in creating and editing content for wide variety of audiences and channels (e.g., published stories, social media posts, promotional materials, talking points, video scripts, etc.) as well as developing communication campaigns and plans.
• Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills, with proven ability to effectively meet deadlines.
• Experience working in a team-based setting where consultation, flexibility, and collaboration are essential.
• Ability to think and plan across channels and develop effective communication strategies.
• Exceptional attention to detail, including copy-editing and following a style guide.
• Knowledge of written communications issues and ability to produce a variety of business documents that demonstrate command of language, clarity of thought, and orderliness of presentation.
• Produce written materials using the university’s Editorial Style Guide as a reference
• Ensure that written messages are understood as intended
• Adapt writing—language, form, style, tone—to different audiences
• Use various techniques for information dissemination and information gathering
• Knowledge of and ability to develop, produce and distribute news, newsletters and other communications materials targeted at the employees.
• Participate in internal communication events or campaigns
• Assess alternative delivery mechanisms for internal communication
• Assist in the development of internal communication materials
• Resolve common internal communication problems and obstacles

Nice To Haves

• Skilled in photography and videography. Familiarity working with Microsoft Office as well as Adobe Creative Cloud photo editing (Photoshop, Lightroom) and video (Premiere Pro) software.
• Experience in managing and creating content for social media accounts.
• Experience with planning and implementing events.
• Experience creating and distributing email newsletters.
• Experience working in a higher education environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and edit published stories, social media posts, talking points, video scripts, etc. for a range of platforms and audiences.
• Manage the Libraries’ social media channels. (Instagram, Facebook)
• Create content for print and electronic event materials.
• Proofread and edit content using the university’s Editorial Style Guide as a reference.
• Support the Libraries mission through communication that builds awareness and appreciation for its people and services.
• Ensure consistent Libraries branding on all platforms.
• Assist in media relations efforts and planning, including creating relationships with media relations personnel. Pitch stories to media.
• Provide support for outreach events.
• Collaborate with Libraries staff and partners to develop, plan, promote, and manage events.
• Assist with coordinating event details, including reserving spaces, food and drink orders, and A/V requirements as needed.
• Assist with assessing outcomes of communication strategies, events, and activities and implement improvements as directed.
• Assist with e-mail campaign management.
• Assist the senior director of strategic communication and external relations in the development and implementation of strategic communication and marketing plans.
• Create and implement communication plans for a variety of Libraries announcements, initiatives, events, etc.
• May provide direction, assignments, and feedback to student workers and/or staff.

Benefits

• Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community, where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success.
• Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies.
• Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI Health Care specialists.
• Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance.
• Iowa City offers a great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor recreation.

What This Job Offers

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