Communications Manager I

About the Role

The Communications & Software Engagement Specialist supports student and family engagement through strategic communications, software integration, and cross-unit collaboration. This position focuses on New Student Orientation (NSO), Family & Supporter Orientation, Transfer Student Success, and community-engaged programs such as Detroit M.A.D.E. Scholars and Lansing Spartan Scholars. Responsibilities include content creation, software evaluation, data-informed communication strategies, and collaborative project management.

Responsibilities

• Communications & Engagement (30%)
  • Develop and distribute newsletters (e.g., NSO, Family & Supporter Orientation) using platforms like Mailchimp and CampusESP.
  • Craft and coordinate text message communications in collaboration with Admissions.
  • Support social media strategy and analytics across ATSS units.
  • Collaborate with student leaders and coordinators to enhance programming visibility.
• Software & Technology Integration (30%)
  • Build and maintain D2L courses for NSO and Family & Supporter Orientation.
  • Collaborate with Institutional Research (IR) and Automation teams to ensure accurate student data integration.
  • Evaluate and recommend communication technologies (e.g., CampusESP, Modern Campus Message).
  • Utilize tools such as Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, Genially, and Snagit for multimedia content.
• Cross-Unit Collaboration (20%)
  • Partner with Family & Supporter Orientation Coordinator and other unit leads to align messaging and engagement strategies.
  • Support Detroit M.A.D.E. and Lansing Spartan Scholars with graphics, website updates, and promotional materials.
  • Participate in onboarding and training for new platforms and systems.
• Assessment & Reporting (10%)
  • Conduct formative and summative assessments of communication strategies.
  • Use tools like Qualtrics and Tableau to analyze engagement and inform future programming.
• Leadership & Support (10%)
  • Serve as a communications liaison across ATSS units.
  • Provide guidance and informal mentorship to student communications teams.
  • Participate in strategic planning for transitions and unit integration.

Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that typically acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Journalism, Telecommunications, or Public Relations; plus one to three years of related and progressively responsible experience in areas such as:

• Public and media relations, composing, editing, and publication production.
• News, broadcasting, and print media.
• Marketing, advertising, and creative services.
• Graphic design, word processing, desktop publishing, web design, or presentation software.
• Spreadsheet and/or database software, public presentation, or radio production.
• Computer programming/technology or managing content for social media channels.

An equivalent combination of education and experience may also be considered.

Qualifications

• Experience with higher education communications and student engagement.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, Mailchimp, CampusESP, D2L, and Tableau.
• Strong project management and collaboration skills.
• Interest in social media analytics and digital storytelling.

Schedule

Standard 8–5 work hours.