Communications Officer

Position Details

Position Information


Position Title
Communications Officer


UIW Mission


University of the Incarnate Word is a Catholic institution that welcomes to its community persons of diverse backgrounds, in the belief that their respectful interaction advances the discovery of truth, mutual understanding, self-realization, and the common good.

Position Summary


The Communications Officer supports the Office of Communications and Brand Marketing (OCM) in efforts related to content creation and editing on projects and platforms for all OCM projects. The position is required to cross-train on other marketing, communications, and media departmental functions to support the organization's strategic plan. The Communications Officer reports to the Advertising, Branding and Marketing Manager.

Benefits


UIW has been identified year after year as one of the nation's Great Colleges to Work For based on employee feedback. UIW offers an outstanding benefits package for full-time employees that includes medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, numerous paid holidays, vacation and sick leave. Tuition benefits include UIW tuition waivers, tuition exchange programs and Brainpower Connection discounts for employees and dependents. Retirement benefits include 403b retirement plans with a 7% employer match, plus a retirement health solution. We also offer employer-paid Life/AD&D, long-term disability, pet insurance, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness programs, employee discount program, Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility and more! Please refer to the Human Resources webpage for additional details on our benefits and eligibility.

Job Duties


Job Duty Name
Essential Duties


Description of Job Duties

• Assist in the development and implementation of robust marketing and communication plans that align with UIW's communications and marketing strategy.
• Assist with the design, writing and editing copy, printing coordination and execution of promotional tactics as necessary, including collateral material, newsletters, direct mail, posters, sponsorships, and other supporting material.
• Support marketing activities in various areas, including web optimization and content, advertising, social media, direct marketing, video production and event planning.
• Ensure the integration of printed and electronic communications with online content on the University's website, campus calendar and social media presences.
• Work with the Digital Experience Manager to update and create website content for each school and department within the University system.
• Work with the Content Strategy Manager to create social media content and execute campaigns for the University Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Tik Tok accounts. Solid understanding of how each social media channel works and how to optimize content so that it is engaging on those channels.
• Support Content Strategy Manager in identifying and writing stories for the Friday community newsletter. Create and distribute weekly community newsletter. Distribute daily employee newsletter - The Word Today.
• Work with the Media and Public Relations Manager and Assistant Director to identify opportunities for University promotion including but not limited to programmatic successes, grants, awards, etc. Develops relationships with key University officials, faculty, staff, and students to identify new and interesting ways to tell the UIW story.
• Review and provide edits for University publications to meet the brand standards and align with UIW style guide.
• Participates in professional activities within and outside the University community.
• Photographs events for documentary purposes to be used in printed and electronic pieces, as needed.
• Contributes to the overall advancement of OCM projects and initiatives;
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications


Knowledge Skills and Abilities

• Strong functional knowledge of social media principles, practices, and desire to apply that knowledge in a professional environment.
• Ability to learn and adhere to UIW brand standards and marketing practices.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Excellent knowledge of AP style guide with strong editing skills.
• Strong computer skills with Adobe Creative Suite and MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Ability to learn and effectively use Canva.
• Excellent project management skills and ability to meet deadlines.
• Familiarity with the basic principles of communications and brand marketing.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse communities and cultures.
• Employee shall adhere to all applicable rules and regulations of the University, the Conference, and the NCAA.

Required Education


Bachelors Degree.

Required Work Experience


Three (3) years of communications-related professional experience. Note that relevant intern/GA experience will be considered.

Preferred Qualifications


Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor in Science in Communications, Journalism and/or Marketing.

Required Certifications, Licenses or Registrations


Must have a valid driver's license, driving record that is insurable by UIW insurance carrier, and be at least 21 years of age, as required to drive for UIW.

Work Hours


Typical Monday through Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm with occasional extended hours/weekends to meet departmental needs.

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift up to 15lbs for table set-up/tear-down at events.
• Ability to lift up to 15lbs of office/marketing/event supplies.
• Ability to reach overhead, bend, squat to retrieve office/marketing/event materials.
• Ability to push/pull equipment/event/marketing carts/wagons holding up to 50lbs.
• Ability to actively engage in events for extended periods of time.
• Ability to regularly move about campus and event venues to actively engage board members / faculty / staff / donors / guests/ (potential/current) students, as well as attend meetings on and off campus.