COMM SPEC 3

About the Role

The Communications Specialist independently oversees a comprehensive communications program for the Department of Emergency Medicine (DEM), which includes written, visual, digital, and electronic communications. This role partners with DEM leadership, faculty, staff, trainees, and other key stakeholders to develop and execute organizational communication and market branding strategy in alignment with the overarching brand and communications strategies of the UCSF enterprise and, where appropriate, UCSF Health.

The Communications Specialist leads, develops, and manages all aspects of internal and external communications, including website content, newsletters, annual reports, social media presence, and fundraising. This position serves as the primary point of contact for the department to the UCSF community, donors, alumni, national and international organizations, and the public at-large.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive, multidisciplinary communications program covering multiple disciplines (e.g., written, visual, digital, and electronic communications).
• Oversee strategic planning and execution of communications initiatives, including website content, newsletters, annual reports, social media, and fundraising.
• Partner with DEM leadership, faculty, staff, trainees, and stakeholders to align communications with UCSF’s enterprise and UCSF Health strategies.
• Manage social media platforms (e.g., Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter) and ensure consistent branding and messaging.
• Publish content in peer-reviewed medical journals and other relevant venues.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, demonstrating professionalism and diplomacy.
• Analyze problems and issues of diverse scope, determining effective solutions under competing priorities.

Requirements

• Minimum 3 years of relevant experience in communications.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related area and/or equivalent experience/training.
• Demonstrated experience with Drupal website development.
• Demonstrated experience with social media platforms (e.g., Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter).
• Strong writing, editing, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to create, develop, and implement long- and short-term strategic communications plans.
• Knowledge of technical applications, design concepts, and media venues.
• Familiarity with higher education and/or health sciences communications, including current affairs and issues.
• High degree of organization, initiative, and ability to function effectively under stress.

Department Overview

The Department of Emergency Medicine (DEM) provides emergency medical care to approximately 177,000 patients annually at the UCSF Medical Center at Parnassus, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals in San Francisco and Oakland, and Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center. DEM supports 94 full-time faculty, 50+ attending physicians, a residency program, fellowship programs, and over 300 house staff and students each year. The department’s vision is to be the leader in compassionate, innovative, and equitable emergency care for all people at all times.