Athletics Communications Assistant

Non-exempt, part-time, in-person 10-month term position located in Schenectady, NY. Hours vary (example: weekdays 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.) with weekend availability as needed. Approximately 25 hours per week over 44 weeks per year. Not eligible for relocation assistance or visa sponsorship.

About the role

Assists the Assistant Athletic Director for Communications and Assistant Athletic Communications Director with promoting and publicizing athletic events, teams, and athletes to enhance the organization's brand and engage with fans, media, and the public. Compensation includes an hourly rate plus college housing and a partial student meal plan.

Responsibilities

• Creates engaging multimedia content (videos, graphics, photos) and written content for websites, social media, newsletters, and publications.
• Collaborates with designers, photographers, videographers, and other creative professionals to produce high-quality content.
• Develops and implements social media strategies to increase engagement, followership, and brand awareness.
• Monitors social media platforms, responds to comments and messages, and manages online reputation.
• Analyzes social media metrics and generates reports to assess communication effectiveness.
• Develops strategic communication plans to promote athletic events, teams, and athletes.
• Identifies target audiences and creates tailored messaging to effectively reach them.
• Coordinates with internal stakeholders (coaches, athletes, administrators) to gather information and stories.
• Provides oversight of press boxes (including media members, broadcasters, and student workers) and/or statistical input assistance for select sports.
• Contributes ideas and support to Union Athletics initiatives, communications, and other activities.
• Seeks out, applies, and shares knowledge of communications trends and innovations.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or a related field, and experience working in collegiate Athletic Communications or a combination of relevant education, training, certifications, and/or work experience.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including nights and weekends.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of sports, athletics, and industry trends.
• Proficiency in digital and social media platforms.
• Experience in media relations is preferred.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds and stand, bend, and stoop for extended periods.
• Able to support, contribute to, and strengthen a vibrant, culturally diverse, and inclusive learning community.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with the Adobe Creative Suite and experience creating new media and video content.
• Knowledge of NCAA Live Stats and/or Presto Stats software.

Pay

Expected hourly rate: $16.00. Final wage/salary may vary based on departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training.

Benefits

• Generous vacation, sick, and personal time.
• Winter recess break in addition to paid holidays.
• Healthcare: medical (PPO & HDHP), dental, and vision insurance (flexible spending and dependent care accounts).
• Free on-campus fitness facility access and discounts for on-campus wellness programs.
• Pre- and post-tax participation in a 403(b) retirement plan.
• Salary continuation program in the event of disability.
• Tuition exchange.