Communications Specialist

Job Description Do you enjoy puzzling out how to catch a reader's attention? Do you love learning about topics ranging from space exploration to artificial intelligence to climate solutions? Do spelling and grammar errors stick out to you like a sore thumb? Did that clich annoy you? If so, you may be a great fit for the Knowledge Enterprise Strategic Marketing and Communications team. We are seeking a versatile writer to produce content for a wide variety of print and digital publications, including websites, news articles, feature stories, brochures and more. You should also be a strong copy editor/proofreader who is meticulous about accuracy, spelling, grammar and style. The Knowledge Enterprise is the engine that drives research and economic development at ASU and in our communities. The Strategic Marketing and Communications team publicizes ASU discovery and innovation through text, videos, photos, illustrations and animations. We seek to engage, inform and delight audiences that include community leaders, partner organizations, funding agencies, donors, the ASU community and the general public. Learn more about the Knowledge Enterprise and see some of our work at research.asu.edu. Candidates should submit two writing samples with application. Working Environment ASU is an inclusive enterprise with a wide variety of work and learning modes, locations, and a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and employee work-life balance. We are determined to maintain our position as an employer of choice in a competitive labor market, as such the following options may be offered dependent on department needs: Flexible work options: Alternative work schedules can include four, 10-hour workdays in a workweek; a nine-day, 80-hour schedule over two workweeks for exempt employees only; and staggered start and stop times. Hybrid work is an arrangement where employees spend a minimum of 60% of their regular workweek at their primary ASU work location. Dean or vice president-level approval is required. Remote work is an arrangement where the employee spends less than 60% of their regular workweek at a regularly assigned ASU work location. Executive vice president-level approval is required. Standard Working Environment: Climate-controlled office setting subject to extended periods of being in a stationary position. Constantly detects and operates a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine and computer printer. Ability to clearly communicate and exchange accurate information to perform essential duties. Expected to be responsive to customers, engaged in work production, resourceful, flexible, and respectful of others. Background Check Statement ASU conducts pre-employment screening for all positions which includes a criminal background check, verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications. Employment is contingent upon successful passing of the background check. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Journalism, English, Communications, Marketing, Education or a related field AND three (3) years of related work experience in the development of comprehensive and creative communication; OR seven (7) years of related work experience; OR Any equivalent combination of experience and or education from which comparable knowledge, skills, and abilities have been achieved. Certificates from recognized programs that verify mastery of tools and techniques relevant to the assignment may substitute for up to six (6) months of experience. Department Statement For the tenth year in a row, ASU has been named the most innovative school in the nation, recognizing the university's culture of groundbreaking research and partnerships, as well as its commitment to helping students thrive in college and beyond. U.S. News and World Report has named ASU as the most innovative university all nine years the category has existed. ASU Knowledge Enterprise advances research, innovation, strategic partnerships, entrepreneurship, and international development. Our success arises from solutions-focused, interdisciplinary research; an entrepreneurial approach that is embedded in every school and department; and a commitment to transform society in a positive way. To learn more about how Knowledge Enterprise is a place for your career to grow, visit https://research.asu.edu/about-us/careers. At Strategic Marketing and Communications, we are dedicated to building an inclusive, and authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly, we encourage you to apply anyway. We value your unique background and perspective, and you may be just the right candidate for this position or other roles on our team. Working at ASU has additional perks and OUTSTANDING benefits, which include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; sick leave and holidays; ASU/UA/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; state and optional retirement plans; access to ASU recreation and cultural activities; and more. To estimate the value of your total compensation, please visit https://cfo.asu.edu/compensation-estimator. Desired Qualifications Evidence of exceptional writing skills. Evidence of meticulous editing and proofreading skills. Experience interviewing experts to glean key information. Demonstrated ability to manage projects independently. Demonstrated ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. Experience in working collaboratively on a team and establishing and maintaining effective working relationships. Demonstrated professionalism in working with executives, clients and partners. Knowledge of AP style. Knowledge of ASU style a plus. Experience with WordPress content management system a plus. ASU Statement Arizona State University is a new model for American higher education, an unprecedented combination of academic excellence, entrepreneurial energy and broad access. This New American University is a single, unified institution comprising four differentiated campuses positively impacting the economic, social, cultural and environmental health of the communities it serves. Its research is inspired by real world application blurring the boundaries that traditionally separate academic disciplines. ASU serves more than 100,000 students in metropolitan Phoenix, Arizona, the nation's fifth largest city. ASU champions intellectual and cultural diversity, and welcomes students from all fifty states and more than one hundred nations across the globe. ASU is a tobacco-free university. For details visit https://wellness.asu.edu/explore-wellness/body/alcohol-and-drugs/tobacco Arizona State University is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor and an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other basis protected by law. Notice of Availability of the ASU Annual Security and Fire Safety Report In compliance with federal law, ASU prepares an annual report on campus security and fire safety programs and resources. ASU's Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available online at https://www.asu.edu/police/PDFs/ASU-Clery-Report.pdf. You may request a hard copy of the report by contacting the ASU Police Department at 480-965-3456. Relocation Assistance - For information about schools, housing child resources, neighborhoods, hospitals, community events, and taxes, visit https://cfo.asu.edu/relocation-services. Essential Duties Plans, develops and writes copy for print and digital communications. Edits and proofreads content for clarity, accuracy and ASU style. Participates in strategic planning and brainstorming for projects and initiatives. Collaborates with design, video, marketing, social media and web development teams in producing multimedia packages and multifaceted marketing campaigns. Manages various editorial projects from concept to completion. Conducts background research and interviews faculty, students, KE leadership, partners and other stakeholders to get necessary information. Updates and maintains web content in WordPress CMS. Stays abreast of ASU news, world news, and trends in communications and marketing. Performs other duties as assigned. Instructions to Apply Application deadline is 3:00PM Arizona time on the date indicated. Please include all employment information in month/year format (e.g., 6/88 to 8/94), job title, job duties and name of employer for each position. Resume, Cover Letter, and 2 Writing Samples should clearly illustrate how prior knowledge and experience meets the Minimum and Desired qualifications of this position. ASU does not pay for travel expenses associated with interviews, unless otherwise indicated. Only electronic applications are accepted for this position. IMPORTANT NOTE: What is the meaning of "equivalent combination" in the minimum qualifications? It means one year of higher education or 24 credit hours, is equal to one year of experience. For example, a four year Bachelor's degree is equal to four years of experience.