Communications Specialist

Oregon State University • Corvallis, OR

407d • $44,496 - $67,758

About The Position

The Communications Specialist at Oregon State University is a full-time professional faculty role within the Division of Extension and Engagement's Communications and Marketing team. This position focuses on creating and disseminating content across various media platforms to inform the public about the division's programs and impact. The role emphasizes storytelling through writing, editing, and multimedia production, aiming to enhance public awareness and support for the division's initiatives. The specialist will collaborate with colleagues and external partners to ensure content is accessible and culturally relevant.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in public relations, journalism, communications, or a related field.
• Demonstrated professional experience in communications.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Experience with photography and/or videography, including basic editing.
• Commitment to collaborative and respectful working environments.
• Ability to learn and adapt to multiple forms of digital communication systems.
• Ability to balance multiple projects and meet deadlines.

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual and/or biliterate (Spanish/English).
• Experience with Associated Press (AP) style.
• Experience publishing content on digital platforms.
• Experience using professional video and photo editing tools.
• Sharp news sense and good copy-editing skills.
• Understanding of local, state, and national news media practices.

Responsibilities

• Create and edit content about the division's programs, activities, and people.
• Interview sources and write news stories, short- and long-form content, and news releases as assigned.
• Take photographs and help produce video or other multimedia content, including appropriate metadata for digital assets.
• Ensure content is culturally inclusive, socially cognizant, and compliant with brand and style guidelines.
• Monitor audience feedback and media coverage to adjust strategies and tactics accordingly.
• Contribute writing, editing, and proofreading skills to unit and division projects, including educational content and marketing materials.
• Build relationships with division leadership and external communications professionals to identify story ideas and develop content.
• Respond to inquiries from the media and the public in a timely manner.
• Participate in the OSU communicators network and coordinate own projects using standard project management tools.
• Engage in professional development opportunities and provide training to division employees.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Basic Life insurance with 95% premium coverage for employees and dependents.
• Free confidential mental health and emotional support services.
• Retirement savings paid by the university.
• Generous paid leave package including holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Tuition reduction benefits for employees and qualifying dependents at OSU and other Oregon Public Universities.
• Robust Work Life programs including Dual Career assistance and flexible work arrangements.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees