Specialist, Public information & Communications - University of Rhode Island : Job Details

Position Information

Posting Number SF01870 Job Title Specialist, Public information & Communications Position Number 108620 FTE 1.00 FLSA Exempt Position Type Professional Staff Union PSA/NEA - Professional Staff Assoc Pay Grade Level Grade Level: 12 Pay Grade Range Salary Hiring Range: $65,980 - $70,000 Status Calendar Year, Full-time, Permanent

Department Information

Department Communications & External Comm Contact(s)

Please note: Job applications must be submitted directly online only at: (

Contact Phone/Extension Contact Email Physical Demands Campus Location Kingston Grant Funded No Extension Contingency Notes Job Description Summary

The search will remain open until the position has been filled. First consideration will be given to applications received by October 17, 2024. Applications received after October 17, 2024 may be reviewed depending on search progress and needs but are not guaranteed full consideration.

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BASIC FUNCTION:

Reporting to the Assistant Director of Communications, responsible for assisting with public relations, communications, and marketing efforts aimed at informing and engaging University constituencies around URI initiatives, successes, and impact. Key responsibilities include developing and writing content for digital and print publications; managing email outreach, with both internal and external audiences; working proactively with media; and responding to media inquiries.

Duties and Responsibilities

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Work with local, regional, and national media outlets to generate interest and publicity for University research, accomplishments, and impact. Craft press releases and stories for the media and University channels.

Respond quickly to frequent media requests for expert resources, information, and general assistance.

Produce content for promotional materials related to University programs, initiatives, and media-related events.

Liaise with communications representatives from other colleges and organizations to support and promote joint announcements.

Assist in coordination of content across all appropriate platforms. Coordinate web-based email platform scheduling and use.

Support special projects, as needed, and work with University Communications team to strategize and enhance opportunities to promote URI and its entities.

Support Assistant Director when public safety emergencies, changes in operations due to storms and/or other crises arise. Assist with emergency management in the areas of crafting emergency and crisis communications and media relations.

OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Perform additional duties as requested.

LICENSES, TOOLS, AND EQUIPMENT:

Personal computers, printers, and relevant digital programs and software.

Required Qualifications

REQUIRED:

1. Bachelor's degree in English, communications, journalism, marketing, liberal arts or related field.

2. Minimum of five years full-time employment in public relations, news reporting, editing, marketing and/or communications.

3. Demonstrated experience in the areas of public information dissemination, public relations, and media placements.

4. Demonstrated project management experience.

5. Demonstrated ability to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

6. Demonstrated experience working with web-based and other email platforms.

7. Demonstrated strong verbal and interpersonal communication skills.

8. Demonstrated proficiency in written communication skills.

9. Demonstrated ability to interpret institutional policies, plans, objectives, rules and regulations and communicate that interpretation to others.

10. Demonstrated ability to work with diverse groups/populations.

Preferred Qualifications

PREFERRED:

1. Demonstrated communications and/or media relations experience at an institution of higher education.

2. Demonstrated experience in Web CMS.

3. Demonstrated experience working with graphic designers, photographers, and printers in the creation of print materials.

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ALL REQUIREMENTS ARE SUBJECT TO POSSIBLE MODIFICATION TO REASONABLY ACCOMMODATE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES.

Environmental Conditions

This position is not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions.

Posting Date 10/02/2024 Closing Date Special Instructions to Applicants

Please attach the following 4 (PDF) documents to your online Employment Application:

(#1) Cover letter.

(#2) Resume.

(#3) Writing Samples - five samples of written articles of work (as one complete document).

(#4) Other Document - References - the names and contact information of three professional references. (Note: this document is required even though references may be listed on the application).

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