Pay Grade/Pay Range: Minimum: $44,200 - Midpoint: $55,300 (Salaried E6)
Department/Organization: 820601 - UREC Administration
Normal Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm; some evenings & weekends.
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: Develops, coordinates, and implements a comprehensive communication plan, including social media, public relations, graphic design, website management, and/or circulation. Develops and implements strategies to engage students and other stakeholders, based on departmental needs and goals. Offers opportunities for creativity and innovation in the development of strategies to promote the programs, services, and facilities of University Recreation. Manages communication for University Recreation events and services in compliance with Strategic Communications and Student Life Divisional Communications. Oversees design and distribution of information to update members and staff about available services and program offerings. Coordinates with Student Life Communications to manage the creation of promotional materials for University Recreation. Creates short-term and long-term strategic promotion plans for each area of the department. Develops and coordinates all UREC-specific presentations for Bama Bound Orientation, University Days, and Transfer Days. Designs and presents UREC-specific presentations for campus partners (HRC, Parent and Family Programs, etc.). Provides program management and oversight of student staff with specialized skills. Provides assistance the Director of Communications for the Division of Student Life in support of divisional communication efforts. Completes all required training and promoting a safe, hospitable, and respectful workplace.
Required Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and some journalism, public relations, marketing, or communications experience.
Additional Required Department Minimum Qualifications: Must submit a portfolio that displays competence in all areas of design and publication preparation for print and electronic production.
Student or Graduate Assistant, Intern, or student-oriented experience will be considered. To be considered student experience, it must be detailed in the employment section on the application.
Must have valid U.S. driver's license. Must be at least 19 years of age at time of hire and have an acceptable Motor Vehicle Report that is in compliance with University policies. Applicants under the age of 21 will have some driving restrictions.
Skills and Knowledge: Working knowledge of graphic design programs including Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign. Ability to work with others in a team environment. Excellent project management and time management skills to handle the volume and variety of projects at the pace each project requires. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines. Ability to write for audiences and communication channels. Initiative and creativity in promotional and design efforts.
Demonstrates commitment to support all students.
Preferred Qualifications: Experience supervising and managing interns and/or student workers. Experience managing social media for departments at a college or university. Experience in photography and videography. Experience in web design, specifically the WordPress website platform. Experience in web space management. Experience in communications, project management, and writing, proofing, and editing. Knowledge of AP style, social media presence and understanding, and content management of social media accounts.
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.
Equal Employment Opportunity: The University of Alabama is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment or volunteer status without regard to any legally protected basis and will not be discriminated against because of their protected status. Applicants and employees of this institution are protected under Federal law from discrimination on several bases. More information is available in the EEOC’s Know Your Rights: Workplace discrimination is illegal poster.
