Pay Grade/Pay Range: Minimum: $48,600 - Midpoint: $60,800 (Salaried E7)
Department/Organization: 701106 - Office for Research Communication
Normal Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm
Note to Applicants: Position is eligible for hybrid work subject to University policy.
Job Summary: The Communications Specialist II writes and edits communications for a college, division, and/or the University. 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: Works within the Division for Research to advance the Alabama Transportation Institute’s visibility, reputation, and stakeholder relationships through integrated communications, branding, digital strategy, and event coordination. Manages the institute’s web presence, content development, social media channels, conference organization, and strategic outreach across industry, government, and academic partners. Ensures consistent branding, messaging, and measurable transportation research outcomes aligned with the University and division’s mission.
Required Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and two (2) years of experience in journalism, public relations, marketing, and/or communications; OR master's degree and some experience in journalism, public relations, marketing, and/or communications.
Skills and Knowledge: Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills across multiple formats. Ability to translate complex research information into clear, accessible communications. Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills. Strong organizational and project management skills. Ability to work effectively on a team and collaborate across various stakeholders.
Preferred Qualifications: Experience with transportation research and policy, science writing or research communications. Understanding of Adobe Creative Cloud, analytics tools, and content management systems such as WordPress. Experience managing social media channels and knowledge of digital amplification techniques. Experience planning events and working with vendors, conference organizers, and other external partners. Experience developing and editing communications and marketing plans and advising stakeholders on communications approaches.
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.
The University of Alabama affirms its longstanding commitment to institutional neutrality, free speech, and academic freedom.
