Communications Specialist

JOB DESCRIPTION:Support the Executive Director of Communications in developing and delivering internal and external communications that inform stakeholders, advance District priorities, and protect the District's reputation. Serve as lead communications professional responsible for content development, crisis communications, media relations, website communications, and mass communication systems while ensuring consistent District messaging and brand standards. DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:Serve as lead writer and editor for District communications, ensuring consistency with District messaging and brand standards. Write and edit news releases, media materials, announcements, public information, and leadership communications. Develop newsletters, stakeholder communications, talking points, speeches, presentations, and frequently asked questions. Create scripts and supporting content for videos, presentations, ceremonies, interviews, podcasts, and other District productions. Develop social media and campaign content in coordination with the Social Media Specialist. Adapt content for various audiences and communication channels and maintain communication templates, style resources, and key messages. Serve as an active member of the District Crisis Communications Team and support communication during emergencies, safety incidents, operational disruptions, and other urgent situations. Gather and verify information and prepare emergency notifications, stakeholder communications, media responses, talking points, and related materials. Coordinate with District and campus leaders to ensure communications are accurate, legally appropriate, and aligned with District messaging. Maintain crisis communication templates, contacts, and reference materials and provide communications support outside of regular work hours when needed. Serve as a primary contact for District website content and create, edit, and publish accessible and user-friendly webpages. Support and train campus and department webmasters in content development and website standards. Review website content and required postings for accuracy, accessibility, and consistency. Collaborate with Communications and Technology staff to improve website functionality and user experience. Administer and maintain the District's mass communication system in collaboration with Communications and Technology staff. Draft, edit, and distribute Districtwide email, text, voice, and other mass communications. Develop and maintain message templates and communication standards. Train and support users regarding system functionality, legal requirements, District expectations, and effective message usage. Support communication initiatives, campaigns, and event coverage through content development and information gathering. Build relationships with campus journalism programs and internal partners to identify and share student and staff stories. Support compliance with applicable laws, regulations, Board policies, and District procedures related to communications. Maintain confidentiality and demonstrate professional and ethical conduct. Maintain regular attendance and perform other duties as assigned. EXPERIENCE:Three (3) years of professional experience in communications, public relations, journalism, media relations, community outreach, or a related field Experience producing professional content for print, digital, executive, or organizational communications QUALIFICATIONS: Education/Certification: Bachelor’s Degree Special Knowledge/Skills: Exceptional writing, editing, proofreading, interviewing, and verbal communication skills Ability to write for multiple audiences and platforms, organize complex information, verify facts, and communicate technical or sensitive topics clearly Knowledge of public relations, media relations, crisis communications, journalism, and professional writing practices Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines Sound judgment, discretion, initiative, and ability to maintain confidentiality Effective interpersonal and public speaking skills and ability to work effectively with diverse groups CONTACT INFORMATION: MENTAL DEMANDS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS: Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office equipment including personal computer and peripherals; cameras, video equipment, presentation systems, web tools, mass communication systems, and related communications software Posture: Prolonged sitting; occasional bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting Motion: Repetitive hand motions, frequent keyboarding and use of mouse; occasional reaching Lifting: Occasional light lifting Environment: Prolonged and irregular hours, including evenings or weekends when crisis or media communication needs require immediate response; occasional district travel Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional and sound judgment control under stress; work accurately and quickly during urgent or sensitive situations

SALARY:

Pay Grade: AB-2 - Minimum pro-rated salary - $64,344 DAYS:226START DATE:2026-2027 School Year #J-18808-Ljbffr Nashville Public Radio