Strategic Communications Consultant, UMKC Institute for Human Development

Overview The Institute for Human Development (IHD) at the University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC) seeks a Communications Specialist to provide communications support, graphic design, and website and social media management to support IHD. The role supports digital and print communication projects, developing concepts and designs for broad dissemination through traditional media channels and digital platforms to promote and enhance the effectiveness of all communications for IHD. Responsibilities Communications Project Support: Provide support to the communications project manager for specific groups within IHD. Develop and implement communication strategies for key projects and ensure they adhere to UMKC and IHD branding standards. Communications Expert: Translate complex information into understandable messages using accessible design, plain language, and communications best practices for digital and print materials to engage internal and external audiences and build the reputation of key projects within IHD. Content Creation: Write, design, and edit communications materials for target audiences and channels. Develop and manage direct email campaigns, newsletters, and public-facing materials communicating the activities, products, and services of key projects within IHD. Website and Social Media Management: Develop a quarterly social media calendar and manage/update key websites, posting content regularly to social media channels and websites on key projects, achievements, and updates. This includes SEO optimization. Ensure all communications are accessible and meet WCAG standards. Communication Collaboration: Collaborate with communication project leads and program directors to develop and execute communications needs for various projects, including PowerPoint presentations, briefing sheets, talking points, and other promotional materials. Project Reporting: Prepare accurate reports using data from research and communications activities, including quarterly reports on social media and website engagement, and convey findings clearly to sponsors and UMKC-IHD leadership. Note: This position is 100% grant funded and contingent on continued funding. Minimum Qualifications A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 2 years of related experience is necessary. Preferred Qualifications Accreditation in Public Relations from the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) or comparable certification from the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC). Mature communications consulting skills developed through agency or related experiences. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Basic design skills including work with InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, Canva and other design software. Experience working with digital media, including WordPress, Elementor, Divi, Avada, SharePoint and social media. Anticipated Hiring Range The anticipated hiring range is $55,000 to $63,500 annually, commensurate with experience, education, and internal equity. Salary is determined by a variety of factors including education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements. Salary and Benefits Your total compensation includes generous leave, health plans, retirement contributions, and other benefits. The University provides a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. Application Deadline Job opening will remain open until filled. For best consideration, please submit your application full by May 24, 2026. Equal Employment Opportunity The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To request ADA accommodations, please call the Office of Equity & Title IX at View phone number on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr University of Missouri-Kansas City