Location: Syracuse,NY, USA
The Communications Specialist is a flexible writer and content creator who can deftly switch tone, length and style of writing to suit various content needs to advance the reputation and reach of Syracuse University's largest college. As part of a tight-knit team of communications professionals, their portfolio will range from publicizing research and grant awards, to writing about A&S signature events and cultural centers, to refreshing the A&S website and assisting with the creation of the print collateral and digital newsletters and magazines. This position works closely with teammates, faculty and staff to ensure mutual alignment with College and University messages, themes and priorities, and therefore interacts frequently with A&S Advancement, Advising, and Admissions offices, along with SU News Services and the central Marketing Office.
This position is part of a bargaining unit and is represented by the union SEIU, Local 200United.
Education and Experience
* Bachelor's degree required.
* Five (5) plus years of professional writing experience required, preferably in an academic environment.
* Degree in English, journalism, communications, marketing or a closely related field desired.
* Familiarity with mass email/e-newsletter creation and dissemination, website content management systems, and other digital communication tools/platforms.
* Familiarity with AP Style is highly desired.
* Familiarity with the Syracuse University style guide a plus.
Skills and Knowledge
* Excellent editing and proofreading skills are a must, as is a keen sense for how to pitch/position stories to make them engaging for readers and attractive to media outlets.
* Timeliness is crucial, as is strong emotional intelligence and the ability to manage expectations with a firm but pleasant manner.
* The successful candidate will have a working knowledge of video scripting and social media content creation, as well as working knowledge of ADA accessibility standards and a keen commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.
* Experience collaborating directly with multiple groups of stakeholders.
* Extensive recent experience researching, writing, and editing in higher education, public relations agency or closely related field with the specific goal to instill pride and drive action/interaction.
* Understands contemporary brand stewardship and content marketing principles.
* Works to bring the brand to life through storytelling and writing.
Responsibilities
* Writes announcements, crafts content and manages projects, such as those supporting high-level research goals and supporting/promoting the College's academic strategic plan, in highly collaborative environment.
* Reviews/refreshes web content and assists with e-newsletters, including training academic departments in the use of e-newsletter templates and systems (including best-practice counsel).
* Manages high-level communications projects for Advancement/Admissions, which may include writing, proofing or reviewing content such as Admissions letters and related web content, writing video scripts and overseeing the production of videos in coordination with others of the content team; writing, proofing or reviewing Advancement-related materials such as monthly alumni e-newsletters, postcards and mailers, fundraising materials (one-sheets; case statements; etc.), and assistance with communications for campaigns and alumni events.
* Other duties as assigned
Physical Requirements
Not Applicable
Tools/Equipment
Not Applicable
Application Instructions
In addition to completing an online application, please attach a resume, cover letter, and sample work material.