Content and Digital Communications Specialist

University of Chicago • Chicago, IL

2d • $72,500 - $85,000

About The Position

The Content and Digital Communications Specialist is a key member of the University of Chicago Institute of Politics’ small, fast-moving communications team and helps shape and execute the Institute’s public narrative. Working under general direction from the Strategic Communications Director, the Specialist independently manages projects from concept through completion and exercises judgment on messaging, media outreach, and channel strategy. This writing-first role supports media relations, donor and stakeholder communications, and the IOP’s digital presence, integrating communications needs across the Speaker Series, Fellows Program, Civic Engagement Program, and Career Development Program.

The Specialist creates content for a range of formats and audiences, builds journalist relationships, develops communications campaigns and editorial calendars, and evaluates media coverage and communications metrics. The role also develops donor-facing and board materials and translates program outcomes and data into compelling narratives. Assignments are broad and may require originality and ingenuity; the position works with moderate guidance and direction and performs other related work as needed.

The role reports to the Strategic Communications Director. The position is an individual contributor, scheduled for 37.5 hours per week, and is salary-based and exempt. The stated pay range is $72,500 to $85,000. Benefits are available to eligible employees.

Requirements

• College or university degree in a related field.
• Two to five years of work experience in a related job discipline.
• Excellent writing skills and flexibility in tone and voice to match channels.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively convey the Institute’s vision, mission, and brand.
• Exceptional time-management and organizational skills to meet internal and external deadlines.
• Ability to contribute effectively as part of a team.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in public relations, marketing, English, or a related field.
• At least two years of experience in communications, media relations, journalism, or public relations.
• Background working with college students or on a college campus.
• Understanding of relational organizing.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, social media, and CMS/CRM tools.
• Entrepreneurial and creative thinking about improving communications and outreach.
• Knowledge of and passion for politics and igniting a similar passion in young people.
• Eagerness to try new things.

Responsibilities

• Draft and distribute press releases, media advisories, and event previews.
• Plan and execute communications campaigns for the Speaker Series, Fellows, Civic Engagement, and Career Development programs, from strategy through evaluation.
• Develop and maintain the editorial calendar across press, newsletter, web, and social channels.
• Build and maintain relationships with journalists; identify and pitch story opportunities to secure coverage of IOP programs, speakers, and Fellows.
• Monitor, analyze, and report on media coverage and communications metrics, and recommend strategic adjustments.
• Produce written content across formats, including newsletter and event copy, donor communications, board materials, talking points, and social media content.
• Ensure a consistent institutional voice across platforms and audiences.
• Draft donor-facing materials, including appeals, impact reports, and stewardship communications.
• Translate program outcomes and data into narratives for the annual report, donor impact reports, website, and media.
• Develop board communications and materials in coordination with the Director.
• Plan, develop, and disseminate information to keep the public informed about the organization’s programs, accomplishments, or point of view, with moderate guidance and direction.
• Perform other related work as needed.

Benefits

• Health benefits
• Retirement benefits
• Paid time off

What This Job Offers

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