Position Title: Content Specialist

Department: Strategic Communications&Marketing

Advertised Pay: Base $53,726 with the potential for a higher rate commensurate with experience

Campus Location: Washburn University

Application Deadline:  Application review will begin as applications are received and will continue until the position is filled. Applicants can be assured of full consideration if submitted by: February 26, 2025.

Special Instructions to Applicants: Applicants invited for interviews will be asked to bring a portfolio.

Position Summary: Washburn University is a student-centered public institution with a diverse population. Washburn is a 2024 best college to work for, according to the Great Colleges to Work For® program. Located in the heart of Topeka, we are proud to be a cornerstone of the community. Our mission is to provide opportunities for our students to realize their full potential; we can’t do it without our dedicated faculty and staff. Join us at Washburn, and you will be part of a long tradition of excellence.

Washburn employs more than one thousand faculty and staff on our campuses throughout Topeka. We strive to offer competitive wages, an excellent benefits program, a supportive culture and a healthy work/life balance. Washburn seeks to create an environment that reflects our core values for creating positive IMPACT: inclusion, modernization, partnership, achievement, community and transformation.

The Content Specialist is responsible for content development by acquiring, researching, writing/creating, and producing content for inclusion in the University's communications efforts, including news releases, publications, websites, social media, and other communications channels as they are developed. Edits, proofs, and produces content to ensure it is well written according to best practices and University style and appeals to specific target audiences. Serves as part of the media relations team in responding to crises.

Essential Functions:
Responsible for Bod Talk, weekly eNewsletter, development and distribution.

Develops and prepares information relating to University organizations to announce and publicize information about University achievements and events and maintain a favorable public image. Loads press releases into the distribution system to assist with disseminating information to newspapers, periodicals, television, radio and other forms of media. Primarily responsible for content development of and disseminating “hometown” press releases.

Assists in creating graphic designs, photographs and videos as needed and directed by the Director of Internal Communications and Brand Management or Executive Director of Strategic Communications & Marketing

Actively participates in planning and executing events and/or campaigns led by other campus departments and committees assigned to lend assistance and support.

As assigned, participates in planning and executing special and ongoing WU events.

May occasionally serve as a liaison/WU representative on committees for community events to maintain the Washburn presence within the community.

Performs additional job-related duties as assigned or as appropriate.

Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in mass media, journalism, communications, public relations or a closely related discipline.
- At least five months of experience writing content across various platforms.
- Demonstrated effective communication skills to write accurate and engaging content correctly and effectively.
- Proven ability to work effectively in a team environment with staff at all levels within an organization.
- Proficiency in proofreading and strict attention to detail.
- Demonstrated effective organization and time management.
- Ability to use technology tools such as graphics programs, content management systems and Adobe Suite.
- Basic skills as a photographer.
- Knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices and procedures in public relations.

Exempt, Background Check Required