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Communications Specialist I - 527720
Job no: 527720
Position type: Regular Full-time (Benefits eligible)
Location: Tuscaloosa
Division/Equivalent: Academic Affairs
School/Unit: Engineering
Department/Office: 214103 - Engineering Development
Categories: Marketing/Event Planning, Communication
Pay Grade/Pay Range: Minimum: $44,200 - Midpoint: $55,300 (Salaried E6)
Department/Organization: 214103 - Engineering Development
Normal Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm
Job Summary: 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.
Additional Department Summary: Supports the External Affairs team in the College of Engineering by assisting with the execution of strategic communication activities that promote the College and its initiatives. Works closely with the Communications Program Manager and other team members to implement communication plans and deliverables aligned with College and university goals. Communicates with internal and external stakeholders across various media platforms (web communication, print publications, e-newsletters, social media, media releases, etc.). Assists with basic video and photo production and helps gather information and produce content for designated publications and projects. Writes and edits internal and external communication pieces, often under tight deadlines, and ensures alignment with messaging standards for the College and the University. Builds foundational knowledge of the College of Engineering to develop content and conducts interviews with faculty, staff, and students as sources. Interacts with and reports activities involving alumni and external stakeholders occasionally.
Required Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and some journalism, public relations, marketing, or communications experience.
Skills and Knowledge: Adept at writing long-form and short-form stories and news releases within tight deadlines. Working knowledge of AP style. Experience with objective/inverted pyramid journalistic writing and feature writing. Skilled at writing and copyediting. Able to interact with constituents and maintain relationships within the College and the University. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Strong organizational and interpersonal skills. Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects with varying deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications: One (1) year of experience in journalism, public relations, marketing, and/or communications. Strong copywriting and editing skills. Experience with Adobe Creative Suite and social media content creation and management.
Background Investigation Statement: Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.
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