Application description
The University of Iowa Libraries
Communications Specialist (PMP3/4A)
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.
Key Areas of Responsibilities and Specific Job Tasks
Message Development and Implementation
- 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.
Public Relations
- 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.
Information Management
- Assist with assessing outcomes of communication strategies, events, and activities and implement improvements as directed.
- Assist with e-mail campaign management.
Strategic Planning
- 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.
Leadership/Supervision
- May provide direction, assignments, and feedback to student workers and/or staff.
Technical Competencies and Proficiency Level
Written Communications (Working)
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
- Proofread and edit content
- 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
Internal Communications (Working)
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
Required Qualifications
- 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.
Desired Qualifications:
- 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.
Application Details:
See link for job ad and to apply: https://phxc3c.rfer.us/UIOWAD8MU8Z
Applications are only accepted through the Jobs@UIOWA website.
In order to be eligible for interview, applicants must upload the following and mark them as “relevant files” when you upload the documents. All three items are required as part of the application process.
- Cover letter that clearly addresses how you meet each of the required and any desired qualifications of this position. To ensure strongest consideration, applicants are encouraged to review all required qualifications and state directly how they meet each of them.
- Current resume
- Three examples of your work or provide a URL to online examples as part of the application process.
This job ad will be posted for a minimum of 14 days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after that date. Please contact andrea-rost@uiowa.edu if you have any questions about the position.
The hiring salary range for the communication specialist position is $54,000 – $64,000.
Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. Up to 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.
This position is not eligible for University sponsorship for employment authorization.
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.
Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.
Equal opportunity employer
The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, or associational preferences.
Persons with disabilities who need assistance or accommodations with the application or interview process may contact University Human Resources/Faculty and Staff Disability Services, (319) 335-2660 or fsds@uiowa.edu. For jobs in UI Health care, please contact UI Health care Leave & Disability Administration at 319-356-7543.