Communications Specialist

The incumbent will be responsible for higher-level tasks related to the creation, development and circulation of print and web material for University departments as well as public affairs for the University. Tasks could include, but are not limited to coordinating projects for clients, overseeing the production of materials, Representing the University/providing information to the media and public, and arranging press conferences.

Content & Marketing Development
• Supports departmental re-branding processes including discovery and information gathering, brand and materials development, and developing a rollout and communications plan for the new brand launch.
Provides moderately complex content and marketing development for web and print media, including writing, editing, research, web graphics and templates, social media, signs and banners, emails, reports, templates, and other print and communications collateral.
• Serves as a strategic contributor for the communications team in content creation, ensuring design and branding consistency across all channels.
• Supports the marketing team in producing and editing high-quality materials, including promotions, advertising, and publicity, ensuring accuracy and high standards.
• Modifies messaging according to target audience, communication goals, and the specific communication channels employed.

Institutional & Academic Communications
• Develops and produces institutional communications including department newsletters, annual reports, faculty publications, grant materials, recruitment content, and alumni communications.
• Collaborates with faculty and researchers to translate complex academic and public health research into accessible, engaging content for internal and external audiences.
• Tracks, organizes, and maintains faculty peer-reviewed publications and research outputs for reporting, promotion, and institutional visibility.
• Provides communications support to affiliated academic units, including research centers and alumni organizations.
• Manages communications and logistics for high-profile academic events, including lecture series, research symposia, alumni events, and national conference participation.
• Serves as primary liaison for campus partners, external stakeholders, and vendors; coordinates contracts and on-site execution.
• Produces multimedia storytelling initiatives, including student recruitment, faculty profiles, and academic program promotions, overseeing all phases of production.
• Supports events and promotions, including vendor contact, interfacing with clients and designers, developing materials, and tracking milestone deliverables.

Collaboration & Administration
• Works collaboratively and effectively with subject matter experts (SMEs), creative teams, and University departments to ensure high-quality content is delivered on time.
• Maintains and updates applicable databases in a timely and accurate manner.
• Provides guidance to other staff as directed.
• Attends unit-specific events and meetings to support and spearhead messaging efforts.

Other Duties

Other duties may be assigned as needed. The job duties outlined in this position description include common responsibilities for this title and level and are not intended to cover every duty that may be required.