Extra Help-Strategic Communications Coordinator

Extra Help-Strategic Communications Coordinator Vice President External Relations & Communication – Urbana The Communications Coordinator provides dedicated support to the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing during a period of high-priority deliverables, including the FY2026 Annual Report, legislative advocacy communications, and institutional storytelling initiatives. Reporting directly to the Director of Brand and Marketing, this temporary role ensures that key communications projects move forward on time, on brief, and at a high standard of quality. The coordinator serves as the connective tissue across the team, managing workflow, tracking timelines, gathering assets, shepherding reviews, and keeping every stakeholder informed and accountable. During this engagement, the coordinator will carry content responsibilities, including writing, editing, and proofreading across a range of deliverables.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Draft, edit, and refine communications content, including written communications, web copy, talking points, and other deliverables as assigned. Maintain consistent voice, tone, and messaging alignment across materials, in accordance with University of Illinois System brand and style guidelines. Work with the Communications Specialist on timelines and schedule; facilitate project check‑ins, status updates, and cross-functional review meetings. Proofread all outgoing materials for accuracy, consistency, grammar, and adherence to University of Illinois System style guidelines. Fact‑check key claims, statistics, and attributed quotes before materials are finalized. Track action items and follow up with team members and stakeholders to ensure accountability. Collect, organize, and manage source materials, including copy, data, and approvals needed for each deliverable. Manage the review and approval process for each deliverable, ensuring the right stakeholders receive materials at the right time. Track feedback, consolidate edits, and route revisions through the appropriate channels. Work independently with minimal supervision; exercise sound editorial judgment under deadline pressure.

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, marketing, or a related field. Three or more years of experience in communications, content, or a related role. Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills with close attention to detail; familiarity with AP Style preferred. Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a deadline-driven environment. Proficiency with project management tools, collaboration platforms, and content management systems. Experience in a higher education, government, or large institutional setting preferred.

APPOINTMENT INFORMATION

Extra Help employees are not hired with the intent of guaranteed employment. Anyone applying for and accepting Extra Help employment agrees to the conditions of this type of employment and receives no assurance of continued employment. Because Extra Help employees work in temporary/as needed assignments for a maximum of 900 hours, there are no benefits associated with this form of employment. The expected start date is 7/1/2026. Salary range is $28–$40 per hour, commensurate with experience.

EEO STATEMENT

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Requests may be submitted by contacting the System Human Resource Services at View phone number on click.appcast.io, or by emailing View email address on click.appcast.io. Required Employment Notices and Posters provide our non-discrimination statement and additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E‑Verify. #J-18808-Ljbffr University of Illinois Chicago