Assistant Director, Athletics Communication

Assistant Director, Athletics Communication

The Division of Intercollegiate Athletics (DIA) invites applications for an Assistant Director, Athletics Communication to lead publicity and social media coverage of Fighting Illini Athletics. In addition, the Assistant Director, Athletics Communication will play a critical role in supporting the broader strategic priorities of the DIA, and ultimately this position will help foster a life-changing experience for student-athletes.

Since 1892, DIA has operated on the campus of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign to support its intercollegiate athletic programs. Today, DIA supports 21 intercollegiate varsity sports which compete as a part of the Big Ten Conference and the National Collegiate Athletic Association. DIA provides the resources for over 500 student-athletes to participate at the highest levels of their respective sports. This extensive support ecosystem includes over 35 departments employing over 300 dedicated staff members including 80 plus varsity coaches working collaboratively to provide individualized championship-caliber opportunities to our student-athletes, in the classroom, in the competitive arena, and in personal and professional development, to enhance their growth and life preparation. The DIA mission is to Unify, Develop, Inspire, and Achieve, for the benefit of our student-athletes, our university, and our broader community.

DIA has set forth six strategic priorities to help guide and advance its overarching mission: Championship people, championship mindset; strategic innovation and investment; athletic success; financial sustainability; win championships; community engagement and enrichment. Together, these priorities present a cohesive vision for the direction of the department.

Job Summary

Lead and execute all communications and social media strategies and coordinate media coverage for assigned sports.

Work Schedule, Travel, or Other Job Expectations

Work nights, weekends and travel

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in journalism, sports communications, sports marketing, sports management, public relations, communications, English, or a related field. One (1) year (12 months) of professional experience working in the athletic communications/sports information field. Demonstrated experience serving as the communications contact for a team and/or managing social media accounts.

Preferred Qualifications

Extensive knowledge and interest in sports; extensive computer/software knowledge and graphics arts skills; Proficiency in desktop publishing software applications such as Adobe InDesign and Creative Suite; Proficiency in social media management and content production, scheduling and planning; Proficiency with statistical programs such as NCAA Live Stats (Genius) and Stat Crew; Familiarity with content management systems such as Sidearm and project management systems such as Basecamp.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Maintain knowledge of, and compliance with, specific NCAA, Big Ten Conference, and institution rules that relate to this position is required. Superior interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and ability to meet deadlines; Mastery of grammar, punctuation, and spelling; a high-degree of error-free clear, effective writing. Working knowledge of AP style guidelines; Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse and team-based environment; Must be able to work evenings and weekends.

Championship Mindset and Expectations

Understands and displays professionalism and integrity that builds and maintains trust between student-athletes and fellow DIA staff; Prioritizes and contributes to the life changing student-athlete experience; Adheres to University, DIA, Big Ten, and NCAA rules and regulations; Commitment to the Athletics Department and University's mission and values; Flexible to various scheduling to include nights, weekend work and some holidays, team travel; and Maintain professional competency and skills required for professional practice.

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 5005 - Athletic Communications Associate position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 10/19/2026. The salary range for this position is $45,000 - $48,000 and the salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications. Sponsorship for work authorization is not available for this position.

For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the SUCSS web site at

Become an Illinois professional at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and be part of a dynamic community dedicated to making a positive impact on both local and global scales, advancing knowledge, and fostering creativity. Learn more about why YOU should join us.

DIA believes that athletics provides a forum to bring together people across all spectra of identities. We are committed to welcoming, affirming, and celebrating students, coaches, staff, and spectators of all races and ethnicities, sexes, religions, sexual orientations, gender identities and expressions, and abilities. DIA's mission is to unify, develop, inspire, and achieve. It is no mistake that "Unify" is our first priority, a priority which requires a level of empathy and respect to create a culture of community, inclusivity, and belonging. Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are a part of who we are and a standard that we are all responsible for upholding.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (CST) on September 25, 2026 . Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position. Applications not submitted through will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact Krissy Doran at View email address on click.appcast.io. For questions regarding the application process, please contact View phone number on click.appcast.io.

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. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at View phone number on click.appcast.io, option #1, or View email address on click.appcast.io .

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.