Communications Specialist

Tarleton State University, a distinguished Doctoral National Comprehensive University, invites applications for the position of Communications Specialist in the Department of University Communications. As part of a vibrant academic community dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and service, this role offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a university that values innovation, collaboration, and inclusive growth. Join us in advancing knowledge and transforming lives—on campus and beyond.

Tarleton State University continues to grow its impact across Texas, with four distinct campuses located in Stephenville, Fort Worth, RELLIS-Bryan, and Waco, along with a robust online community. At the heart of it all is Stephenville, where Tarleton State offers a dynamic environment for faculty and staff, including a lively live music scene, numerous local festivals, and rich traditions rooted in the surrounding community.

Important Immigration Information: A Presidential proclamation issued on September 19, 2025, imposes a $100,000 fee on new H-1B petitions filed after September 21, 2025. Tarleton State University will not pay this fee. Additionally, a moratorium on new H-1B filings in Texas, effective January 27, 2026, may impact employment sponsorship for candidates requiring visa status.

About the Role

The Communications Specialist, under the direction of University Communications leadership, proactively identifies, researches, and develops compelling stories that showcase Tarleton State University’s students, faculty, staff, research, programs, and institutional priorities. Through strategic relationship building, content development, and collaboration with campus partners, this position helps increase awareness and visibility of the university among internal and external audiences. Serves as Campus Security Authority (CSA). This is a full-time, on-site position located on the Tarleton State University campus in Stephenville, Texas.

Responsibilities

• Story Development & Research (40%)
  • Research and identify compelling stories that highlight academic programs, faculty research, student success, university initiatives, and institutional priorities.
  • Build and maintain relationships with faculty, staff, and university leaders to remain informed of emerging news, accomplishments, and strategic initiatives.
  • Increase awareness of accomplishments occurring across outreach locations and university campuses through proactive story development.
  • Coordinate news events on campus and distribute news stories throughout university channels under the direction of University Communications leadership.
• Written Communication (40%)
  • Serve as a lead writer for news stories, feature articles, and strategic communications for the Office of Marketing and Communications.
  • Contribute as a writer and associate editor for the Tarleton State University Magazine.
  • Develop content that reflects university branding, messaging, and Associated Press style standards.
  • Assist in planning editorial calendars by maintaining a pipeline of future stories and communication opportunities.
• Strategic Communications (15%)
  • Support communication planning for major university initiatives, events, and announcements.
  • Collaborate with internal stakeholders to identify communication needs and recommend storytelling opportunities.
  • Assist with coordinating university news and distributing content through appropriate communication channels.
• Other Duties (5%)
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Required Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Two years of related experience.
• Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:
  • Strong writing, editing, and organizational skills.
  • Knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, project management, database, and presentation applications.
  • Proven ability to generate imaginative solutions and create cost-effective alternatives, including the ability to proactively position university experts and news stories with media outlets.
  • Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.
  • Interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Planning and organization skills.
  • Ability to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, which may include communications systems, computer networks, cybersecurity systems, electrical grids, hazardous waste treatment systems, or water treatment systems, if applicable.

Applicants must submit a minimum of three (3) AP-style writing samples.

Pay

The target base annual salary range is $44,000 up to $46,200 and may be negotiable based on funding availability and candidate experience/skillset in relation to the minimum requirements of this position.

Schedule

Standard work hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., with additional evenings, weekends, or holidays required to support time-sensitive communications and major university events.

Benefits

We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package for full-time and qualifying part-time employees. For detailed information, visit our Benefits Information page.