Communications Specialist I - 529030

Pay Grade/Pay Range: Minimum: $44,200 - Midpoint: $55,300 (Salaried E6)

Department/Organization: 750501 - Alabama Water Institute (AWI)

Normal Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm

Note to Applicants: Position is eligible for remote work subject to University policy. 

Job Summary: The Communications Specialist I writes and edits communications for a department, college, and/or division under general supervision. Develops and implements plans, activities, and tactics to support the goals of assigned areas. Coordinates the production of materials and resources through a variety of platforms, including digital and physical mediums.

Additional Department Summary: The Global Water Security Center (GWSC) is an applied research and operational center commissioned to respond to our nation’s need for water and environmental security insights. GWSC will inform national security partners and others with global interests in water and environmental security. Our partners will include the Department of Defense (DoD), other US Government agencies, private companies, and data producers from federal agencies and academia. This position supports GWSC's mission by developing, coordinating, and implementing a comprehensive communication plan, including social media, public relations, graphic design, website management, and/or circulation. Collaborates with GWSC analysts and other stakeholders to contribute to the development of the center’s brand. Develops and implements strategies to engage stakeholders, based on departmental needs and goals. Offers opportunities for creativity and innovation in the development of strategies to promote the Global Water Security Center. Creates short-term and long-term strategic promotion plans for the department and provide assistance in support of divisional communication efforts. Continuation in this position is contingent upon availability of external funding derived from research programs or specific projects. To best execute its mission, the Office for Research & Economic Development (ORED) prefers that all ORED employees work on the campus of The University of Alabama. However, ORED will consider, on a case-by-case basis, remote work for an employee if such work makes strong business sense for ORED based on the scope of work and expectations for that employee.

Required Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and some journalism, public relations, marketing, or communications experience.

Skills and Knowledge: Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to think analytically and work independently with moderate supervision. Working knowledge of graphic design programs including Canva, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign. Ability to work with others in a team environment. Excellent project management and time management skills to handle the volume and variety of projects at the pace each project requires. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines. Ability to write for audiences and communication channels. Initiative and creativity in promotional and design efforts. Ability to think analytically and work independently with moderate supervision. Relationship building skills. Knowledge of current and developing trends in communications. Knowledge of AP style, social media presence and understanding, and content management of social media accounts.

Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor's degree and two (2) years of experience in communications and/or marketing or a related field. Experience in web space management. Experience in communications, project management, and writing, proofing, and editing. Experience in Meltwater or other social media management platform and experience in WordPress or other CMS. Experience with Microsoft 365 programs.

Background Investigation Statement: Prior to hiring, the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.

Equal Employment Opportunity: The University of Alabama is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment or volunteer status without regard to any legally protected basis and will not be discriminated against because of their protected status. Applicants and employees of this institution are protected under Federal law from discrimination on several bases. More information is available in the EEOC’s Know Your Rights: Workplace discrimination is illegal poster.