Communications Specialist

Location: Chicago, IL Job Description: Writes content and drafts news stories under tight deadlines, including writing profiles of researchers and other programming. Manages campaign launches for the release of new research, in coordination with the Institute communications team and communications staff in relevant schools and divisions. This includes writing research summaries, news releases, social media campaigns, and other content to promote CSEi research. Maintains daily digital communications for CSEi. This includes drafting social media and email marketing campaigns, as well as content showcasing the latest research, news, and events for CSEi's website. Coordinates CSEi media relations, including developing and maintaining media lists and creating pitch materials, as well as monitoring, tracking, and reporting on media activities and coverage. Develops strategies to build CSEi stakeholder engagement, including, but not limited to, conducting stakeholder mapping, and maintaining lists. Manages the promotion and assists in execution of programs, including overseeing the creation and distribution of advertising materials, assisting in carrying out programs, and creating content to summarize programs. Records and monitors analytics for the CSEi website, social media, and email marketing accounts, and shares relevant data with the Institute communications team to inform and coordinate strategies. Develops, plans, and disseminates information designed to keep the public informed of the organization's programs, accomplishments, or point of view. Solves moderate to complex problems related to the writing, preparation, and/or delivery of information from or about the unit. Performs other related work as needed. Preferred Qualifications Education: Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, marketing or a related field. Experience: Five to seven years of experience working in a communications or science writing role. Highly experienced in writing about complex climate, science, and/or technology issues, including research. Managing websites, email marketing and social media accounts in a professional capacity, as well as maintaining stakeholder/media lists. Experience or interest in media relations. Technical Skills or Knowledge: Proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and web-based communication methods and tools such as MailChimp, Hubspot, WordPress, and Google Analytics (or similar platforms). Knowledge of best practices in digital engagement and their applications to communication strategies, including through web, email, and social media. Knowledge of working with reporters and within the media landscape. Knowledge of climate/environmental research, policy, and issues. Preferred Competencies Strong writer who can digest and translate complex subjects for a general audience. Exceptional interpersonal skills and work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team. Manage and prioritize diverse job tasks, perform effectively in a fast-paced environment, and meet deadlines in a timely manner while maintaining professionalism and product quality. Excellent organizational skills, flexibility, and attention to detail. Working Conditions Office environment; writing and typing, work at a computer for multiple hours. Some evening and weekend work. Fast-paced environment. Periodic meetings at other campus locations. Pay Range $90,000 - $100,000 per year. Application Documents Resume/CV (required) Cover Letter to include interest in position (required) References Contact Information (3) (required) Example of Past Work; writing, communications campaign, etc. The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination. Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via the Applicant Inquiry Form. The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637. J-18808-Ljbffr