Communications Specialist

About the role

Full-time, benefited position with the Central Valley Higher Education Consortium (CVHEC) through the California State University, Fresno Foundation. CVHEC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit regional consortium of higher education institutions serving a ten-county region from San Joaquin County to Kern County, with a mission to increase degree attainment across California’s Central Valley. Reporting to the Associate Director, the Communications Specialist plans, develops, and implements communications, media relations, and marketing efforts for CVHEC, creates and disseminates print and digital communications, manages media engagement, and works with member institution communications and Public Information Officer teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop, write, edit, and distribute print, digital, and multimedia communications, including newsletters, email campaigns, website content, and social media.
• Maintain and manage electronic distribution lists and communications platforms.
• Draft, format, and coordinate press releases, media advisories, and related outreach.
• Design and produce marketing graphics and promotional materials highlighting Consortium programs, initiatives, and outcomes.
• Research, analyze, and synthesize information for inclusion in communication materials and publications.
• Develop and implement communications strategies that effectively engage Consortium members, partners, and regional stakeholders.
• Maintain and update CVHEC-related websites and digital communication channels, including Mailchimp, WordPress, and Google Drive.
• Track and report on communication performance metrics, including email engagement, social media reach, and website traffic, to inform ongoing strategy and content decisions.
• Coordinate communications and promotional activities for Consortium meetings, convenings, and regional events.
• Prepare speaker materials, agendas, and event-related communications.
• Provide on-site communications support for events, as needed.
• Collaborate with program and administrative staff to support event logistics and documentation.
• Serve as a liaison with media organizations, Public Information Officers, and community partners, as assigned.
• Manage multiple concurrent projects, ensuring timely completion and high-quality deliverables.
• Support the Executive Director and team with drafting correspondence, talking points, and remarks for public engagements, panels, and presentations as needed.
• Assist with communications content for funder reports, grant materials, and related deliverables, in coordination with grants and program staff.
• Maintain confidentiality and appropriately handle sensitive information.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in Journalism, Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of two (2) years of progressively responsible professional experience in communications, marketing, journalism, or public relations.
• Experience working in a college, university, nonprofit, or public sector environment is preferred.
• Experience supporting events, convenings, or project coordination is desirable.
• Valid driver’s license and current automobile insurance required.

Qualifications

• Working knowledge of communications principles, media relations, marketing practices, and public affairs.
• Knowledge of copyright and other applicable laws related to publications and media.
• Demonstrated excellence in writing, editing, proofreading, grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing needs in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to develop, create, and manage web, multimedia, social media, and electronic communications content.
• Proficiency with standard office software, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and internet applications.
• Experience using email marketing and content management platforms, including Mailchimp and WordPress, or similar systems.
• Ability to work effectively and collaboratively with individuals at all organizational levels and with diverse community stakeholders.
• Strong interpersonal, presentation, and public speaking skills.
• Commitment to producing high-quality work products and maintaining professional standards.
• Familiarity with, and openness to exploring, AI tools that support content development and communications efficiency.

Pay

$3,466.67 - $4,333.33 per month ($41,600 - $52,000 annually). Salary will be commensurate and competitive with experience and qualifications.

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision, life and 401(k)
• Vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay