Careers @ MSU

Position Summary

The Michigan State University (MSU) Water Alliance is seeking a collaborative and results-driven part-time Community Relations Administrator to help advance MSU’s leadership in addressing complex water challenges. This role is ideal for a professional with experience in water science, science communication, outreach, public relations, partnership development, or fundraising who is motivated by collaborating with scientists and engaging communities to address water-related issues.

The Water Alliance is a university-wide bridging organization that connects faculty, staff, students, and external partners to tackle water-related ecological and human challenges shaped by social, economic, political, climate, and environmental change. As Community Relations Administrator, you will serve as a key ambassador for the Water Alliance b y strengthening relationships, expanding partnerships, and amplifying t he reach of MSU’s water research, teaching, and engagement across campus and beyond.

Duties include: 

• Build and maintain relationships with external partners, including government agencies, private industry, foundations, and community organizations.
• Identify, develop and manage partnership opportunities that support student learning, research funding, event sponsorships, and long-term collaboration.
• Serve as an information resource for partners , stakeholders, and Water Alliance members.
• Engage regularly with MSU faculty and specialists to connect water related research, outreach, and education with external partners.
• Represent the Water Alliance at local, state, national, and select international meetings and events.
• Enhance and manage the public image and messaging of the MSU Water Alliance in collaboration with Alliance leadership an d communications staff.
• Gather stakeholder input to assess com munity and partner needs to help guide future Water Alliance priorities .
• Collaborate with Water Alliance staff to document and communicate program outputs and impacts, demonstrating effectiveness and value.

This positions interacts with:

• Faculty an d Specialists: to learn more about their water-related research, outreach, and education activities to share with external partners. 
• External agencies, government partners, private industry and foundations: to build partnerships and relationships, promote Water Alliance interests, exchange information, and gather feedback.
• Media: to promote MSU Water Alliance activities and outcomes.
• University Development: to help align donor fundraising efforts.
• Support staff: to provide direction and exchange information.

Minimum Requirements

• Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, marketing, business, or a related field; 5-8 or more years of experience in community relations, outreach, science communication, fundraising, marketing, event management, partnership development, or special project development; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 
• Demonstrated effective and creative writing skills; working comfort with social media.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and written and oral communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently and collaboratively.
• Willingness to travel; valid driver’s license required.

Desired Qualifications

• Advanced degree in a water related‑ science, communications, public relations, marketing, business, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience building and sustaining cross sector partnerships or collaborations.
• Familiarity with higher education, member based organizations, or fundraising environments.
• Ability to work effectively at the interface of science, policy, and public engagement.
• Analytical skills to assess program effectiveness and support continuous improvement.
• Ability to manage multiple time-sensitive priorities simultaneously.
• Ability to work well independently and effectively as a team member.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

1. Resume
2. Cover letter
3. Names and contact information of three professional references

Special Instructions

Why join the MSU Water Alliance

This position offers the opportunity to help shape how MSU connects water expertise to real-world impact by supporting interdisciplinary research, inclusive education and training, and partnerships that address critical water challenges in Michigan and beyond.

MSU Water Alliance Mission

The MSU Water Alliance is committed to:

• Enabling MSU to be a global leader in developing transdisciplinary tools and solutions to water related ecological and human problems.
• Amplifying and promoting water related research, teaching, and outreach across MSU units and disciplines.
• Serving as a connector among MSU water science units and faculty with water expertise.
• Building and sustaining partnerships bet ween MSU and external organizations in government, industry, foundation s, and communities.
• Creating education and training opportunities in water with a strong commitment to reaching underrepresented students.

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Description of End Date

This is an off date position funding until August 31, 2027 from date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Website

https://water.msu.edu/

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Bidding eligibility ends April 7, 2026 at 11:55 P.M.