Position Title:                  Communications Specialist

Reports To:                      Associate Director, Marketing, Communication, and Design

Payroll Classification:    Hourly, Non-Exempt

Starting Hourly Rate:      $26.08 - $30.15 per hour

Priority Filing Date:         Open Until Filled

Position Definition:

Under the general supervision of the Associate Director of Marketing, Communication, and Design, the Communications Specialist focuses on refining written content for clarity, consistency, and adherence to brand voice and overall marketing strategies. This position works as part of ASI’s Marketing, Design, and Design department to promote the programs, services, and facility offerings of ASI; the achievements of ASI; advance the goals of ASI and its partners; aid in student engagement recruitment through digital channels; and communicate the activities and mission of ASI to internal and external constituencies. The Communications and Specialist supervises the communications assistants and interns.

 Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

·         Copywriting and editing:

o    Write engaging and persuasive copy for a variety of marketing materials, including website content, blog posts, social media posts, email campaigns, and print materials.

o    Develop and maintain brand voice and messaging across all communication channels.

o    Proofread text for grammatical errors, typos, spelling mistakes, and punctuation inconsistencies.

o    Ensure consistency in style and formatting across all content, adhering to editorial style guides (e.g., AP Stylebook, Chicago Manual of Style).

o    Fact-check information and verify sources for accuracy and credibility.

o    Identify and address factual errors, inconsistencies, and plagiarism.

o    Ensure compliance with legal and ethical publishing standards.

·         Collaboration and Communications Coordination:

o    Develop and implement communication plans for various projects and initiatives.

o    Enhance the flow and readability of written material by restructuring sentences, eliminating redundancy, and improving clarity.

o    Condense complex sentences and simplify jargon to make the text accessible to the target audience.

o    Ensure proper word choice and sentence structure for engaging and effective communication.

o    Suggest revisions to improve tone, voice, and overall messaging.

o    Coordinate with other departments to ensure consistent messaging and branding.

o    Work closely with writers, editors, and other stakeholders to ensure all content meets the highest standards.

o    Provide constructive feedback and suggestions for improvement in a clear and professional manner.

o    Maintain open communication and build positive relationships with team members.

o    Support ASI’s DEI plan in all programming, services, and interactions.

·         Leadership and Public Relations:

o    Conduct research and gather information to support content creation.

o    Stay up to date on industry trends and best practices.

o    Assist with other marketing and design projects as needed.

• • Foster a positive and collaborative work environment while providing training, evaluation, development, and coaching to your team.
  • Lead the development of team objectives and goals, aligning strategies with overall department plans.
  • Recruits, hires, trains, develops, coaches, and evaluates the Communication Assistants and interns

Education:            

BA or BS in English, Journalism, Marketing, Communications, public relations, or related field required.

Experience:

Two years of experience as a copy editor/proofreader and communications experience required with at least one year of supervisory experience.

 Knowledge and Abilities:  

·         Strong collaboration, clear communication, and adherence to overarching goals are vital.

·         Strong understanding of grammar, punctuation, and style guides (e.g., AP Stylebook, Chicago Manual of Style).

·         Demonstrated ability to create error-free written communication with strong attention to grammatical detail and AP writing style. Preference may be given to candidates with advanced writing abilities.

·         Excellent attention to detail and a keen eye for errors.

·         Strong writing and communication skills.

·         Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

·         Ability to adapt to different writing styles and formats.

·         Collaborative spirit and a passion for teamwork.

·         Technical fluency in common computer applications and software programs including MS Office Suite, PC, and Apple platforms.

·         Ability to communicate and work with a variety of people of varying backgrounds and education levels.

Additional Requirements:

 Typical Physical and Mental Requirements:

• Sitting and standing for extended periods: The role involves significant computer work and meetings, requiring sustained sitting or standing.
• Walking and climbing stairs: Moving around the campus, attending events, and potentially using stairs regularly.
• Lifting and carrying moderate weight: This could include lifting and carrying materials for presentations, events, or production activities no more than 30lbs.
• Dexterity and fine motor skills: Operating computer equipment, handling small objects, and performing tasks requiring hand-eye coordination.
• Visual and auditory acuity: Effective communication and interaction in various settings require good vision and hearing.

• We are committed to working with qualified individuals with disabilities to identify and implement reasonable accommodations that would allow them to perform the essential functions of the job. If you have a disability and require accommodation to perform the essential functions of this job, please notify the hiring manager during the application process or upon accepting an offer of employment.

Special Requirements

• Employment will be contingent on a satisfactory employment history and criminal background investigation.
• May be required to drive occasionally as needed. Valid driver’s license and current auto insurance must be on file at all times and must meet CSURMA driving standards.

• Required to be a Mandatory Reporter and sign ASI Mandatory Reporter Form.