(Hybrid) Communications Specialist - Strategic Priorities

As an essential member of the Strategic Priorities communications and marketing team, the Communications Specialist supports internal and external communications and marketing efforts for multiple high-priority units at the University, including:

• Division of Finance and Finance Operations
• Facilities Operations
• Transportation and Parking
• Information Technology Services
• Special Projects as Assigned

This individual will work closely with all members of the Strategic Priorities team, Strategic Communications and Marketing, and units across the University to support marketing and communications needs, including creating content for creative materials, press releases, websites, and HTML emails; writing and posting social media content; event planning and support; and assisting with all Strategic Priorities projects and initiatives.

The Communications Specialist will help plan and execute a variety of communications tactics while adhering to the WVU brand and play an essential role in promoting the University to statewide and regional leaders, WVU administrators, students, faculty, staff, and the general public.

Responsibilities

• Draft marketing materials, website content, email newsletters, social media posts, press releases, articles, scripts, and talking points while adhering to the WVU writing styles and brand guidelines.
• Manage and create content, including copywriting and basic visual asset creation, for platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
• Support the creation of marketing tactics that are effective in both cost and impact, including internal communications, external communications, print pieces, websites, social media, and video.
• Coordinate and/or provide support for major events, campaigns, and initiatives.
• Stay current with emerging trends in marketing, web design, social media, etc.
• Work with Strategic Priorities colleagues to support, strengthen, and extend the WVU brand and clearly articulate the mission, goals, and identity of the University through the look, feel, and tone of communications.
• Support project planning and help coordinate execution from start to finish, monitoring progress and deadlines with guidance from senior staff.
• Utilize research tools, critical thinking, and strong editorial capabilities in all communications.
• Participate in department meetings and other project meetings as required.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, public relations, or a related field required.
• Minimum of two (2) years of related work experience.
• Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered.
• All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.
• Valid Driver's License.

Skills

• Exceptional written communications skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Basic understanding of marketing goals, tracking, and analytics.
• Ability to handle confidential information.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and learn new tools or strategies quickly.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to occasionally support time-sensitive tasks outside normal working hours.
• Skilled proficiency with Microsoft Office suite.

Physical/Work Demands

• This position is hybrid, requiring in-office presence at least 3 days a week.
• May require lifting objects up to 30 pounds.
• Regular office setting involving sitting, walking, and standing.
• Occasional need to reach high or low places for lifting office equipment.
• Daily use of a computer, keyboard, printer, and other audio-video equipment requiring above-average finger/hand dexterity, eye-hand coordination, and average or better visual acuity.
• Non-supervisory role; may work autonomously or receive instruction depending on the task.

Benefits

• 37.5-hour work week
• 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
• 24 annual leave (vacation) days per year
• 18 sick days per year (for personal illness, caring for sick family, or medical appointments; family includes immediate relatives, in-laws, and household members)
• Range of health insurance and other benefits
• 401(a) retirement savings with 6% employee contribution match, eligibility to continue health insurance, and other retiree perks
• Wellness programs

Schedule

Full-time