Marketing Communication Specialist

Marketing Communications Specialist Do you have a passion for storytelling, public relations, and creating content that makes an impact? Indian River State College is seeking a Marketing Communications Specialist to help share The River's story, elevate our brand, and engage students, employees, and the community. In this role, you'll create compelling content for digital, social, and traditional media channels, support media and public relations efforts, promote key college initiatives and events, and collaborate across campus to ensure consistent, engaging communications. You'll also leverage emerging technologies, analyze communication performance, and help strengthen the College's visibility and reputation. If you're a strong writer, creative thinker, and collaborative professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment, we invite you to join our team and help advance Indian River State College's mission of transforming lives through education. About Us Indian River State College is a leading public institution on Florida’s Treasure Coast, serving students across multiple campuses in four counties. We are committed to academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement, offering associate and bachelor’s degrees, workforce training, and continuing education programs that meet the needs of our region. At The River, we believe every student’s and every employee’s story matters. We value the diverse perspectives, experiences, and talents that come together across our campuses, creating a learning environment and workplace that is supportive, inclusive, and inspiring. With flexible learning options online, on campus, and hybrid, we meet students where they are and prepare them for real-world success. Programs like the Promise Program expand access by providing eligible students with tuition-free opportunities, ensuring every learner has the chance to thrive. Why Join The River When you join Indian River State College, you become part of a collaborative and mission-driven community where your work makes a meaningful impact. Here, your role is more than a job; it’s an opportunity to shape futures, support student success, and contribute to a college that is changing lives every day. What We Offer Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision coverage; flexible spending accounts; life insurance; supplemental plans; and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Affordable Coverage: PPO and HMO options starting at approximately $50/month for individual coverage and $180/month for family coverage Retirement Security: Florida Retirement System (FRS) participation, plus optional tax-deferred annuities and Roth 403(b) plans Work-Life Balance: Generous paid vacation, personal, and sick leave Perks & Discounts: Reduced rates on services and access to local attraction discounts Growth & Development: Professional development opportunities, leadership training, and career advancement pathways JOB SUMMARY Under general supervision, Marketing Communications Specialist supports the College’s communications and public relations efforts by creating content, coordinating media relations, and promoting initiatives that advance the institution’s mission and reputation. The position strengthens public awareness and engagement through multiple communication platforms while collaborating with faculty, staff, administrators, and the Brand Experience team to ensure consistent messaging and support institutional goals. SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILTIES Create and Communicate Write and edit content for the college’s owned media, including, but not limited to, website content, social media content, press releases, news stories, blogs, and other institutional publications. Serve as a liaison between the college and the media, coordinating media inquiries and arranging interviews with college officials. Support emergency communications by coordinating timely alerts, updates, and recovery messaging across all channels. Leverage emerging technologies—including AI tools and automation—to streamline content creation and enhance digital reach. Develop internal communications to keep faculty, staff, and students informed and inspired. Safeguard sensitive information and ensure timely, accurate responses. Collaborate and Connect Partner with the Strategic Events Team to plan and promote media events, press conferences, and College celebrations. Own media relations—respond to inquiries, coordinate interviews, draft statements, and maintain relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets. Support community outreach efforts across the college, working with other departments to align messaging and strengthen public engagement. Measure and Improve Track and analyze media coverage, social engagement, and communications performance to identify trends and insights. Prepare reports and recommend strategies to enhance The River’s visibility and reputation. Support emergency response messaging and monitor public sentiment to ensure clarity and trust. Other Duties As Assigned Completes all other duties and responsibilities as assigned. QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, marketing or a related field. Minimum three (3) years of related experience in public relations, communications, marketing, or social media. Exceptional writing, editing, and proofreading skills, with proficiency in AP style. Experience using social media management and content creation platforms. Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Strong interpersonal and organizational skills with the ability to work collaboratively across teams. Understanding of or willingness to learn Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine laws. Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite. Preferred Qualifications Familiarity with creative tools and web content management systems. Particularly, experience with Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, WordPress, and Element451. Familiarity with local and statewide media landscapes. PHYSICAL DEMANDS This position requires an ability to sit and stand for extended periods of time and to present oral lectures/demonstrations, walk, bend, lift, reach up, stoop, and carry items occasionally in excess of twenty-five (25) pounds. Some lifting of computer and electronic equipment may be required. It also requires manual dexterity to operate standard office machines, such as, copier, fax, calculator, telephone, and other equipment as necessary. IRSC expects its employees to follow proper safety standards while employed by the College. Classification Staff Supervisory No FLSA Exempt Yes Employment Type Regular Compensation and Application Deadline Pay range starts at: $49,287.08 | All salary calculations start at the minimum salary and will be based on the candidate's education and experience | Open until filled. Indian River State College serves Florida’s Treasure Coast as the four-county region’s premier provider of post-secondary education. A comprehensive public institution, IRSC offers short-term career training, two-year Associate Degrees and Bachelor’s Degree programs. The College’s combination of quality, affordability and convenience attracts more than 30,000 students annually. Every aspect of IRSC is focused on helping students succeed. We appreciate your interest in IRSC and thank you for considering IRSC as your career choice. EEO/Equal Access Policy Indian River State College is an equal opportunity/equal access institution. It is the policy of the District Board of Trustees to provide equal opportunity for employment and educational opportunities to all (including applicants for employment, employees, applicants for admission, students, and others affiliated with the College) without regard to race, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, or genetic information. #J-18808-Ljbffr