Communications Specialist
- Employer
- The University of Kansas
- Location
- University of Kansas Lawrence Campus
View more categoriesView less categories
- Administrative Jobs
- Institutional & Business Affairs, Communications & Marketing, Technology, Multimedia & Audiovisual
- Employment Type
- Full Time
- Institution Type
- Four-Year Institution
Job Details
The University of Kansas OCRTIX One University office seeks a Communications Specialist to assist with OCRTIX internal and external communications, highlighting the important work of this office, necessary compliance requirements, and essential resources and services available to members of the One University community. The work of the OCRTIX Communications Specialist will directly support OCRTIX programmatic efforts and initiatives to foster access, respect, and belonging across the University of Kansas and University of Kansas Medical Center communities – learners, staff, and faculty.
The Communications Specialist is a full time unclassified, non-exempt position in OCRTIX and will play an essential role in the management and support of OCRTIX core functions for all KU/KUMC campuses, including, but not limited to internal and external communications, social media management, event marketing and promotions, education and training content creation, and more. This position will report to the OCRTIX Communications Director.Job Description
50% - OCRTIX External Communications Support
- Support the development of OCRTIX’s external and internal communications strategy.
- Assist in planning and implementing OCRTIX’s social media strategy, including semesterly long-term planning and weekly short-term planning, creating and curating content for platforms including Instagram, Threads, Bluesky, LinkedIn, and other similar/alternative platforms to engage with multifaceted audiences.
- Oversee Hootsuite scheduling and assist with all logistical processes related to posting on social media platforms.
- Assist in carrying out the University rebrand across all appropriate One KU platforms and outlets as well as continued implementation of the University brand post-transition.
- Support long-form writing efforts for blogs, newsletters, e-newsletters, VC Statements, elevator flyers, LinkedIn, Campus Family Communications (Campus ESP), etc.
- Support the development of event promotional materials; Attend, support, and document events via photography, videography, and investigative journalism across all One KU Campuses (Lawrence, KUMC, Edwards, etc.).
- Support post-event digital media archival efforts across social media platforms, the OCRTIX website, OCRTIX newsletters, SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, etc.
- Research social media trends (relevant to higher education/University of Kansas brand standards) and implement them in support of OCRTIX programs and initiatives.
- Support the OCRTIX Director of Communications efforts, including the development and review of Impact Advisor Reports, Unit-specific climate reports and surveys, and others. Produce consistent, high-quality, accessible reports and related products. Develop new templates as needed.
- Oversee data analytics for the website, social media, and all relevant platforms. Maintain social media data tracking, and generate monthly, semester, and annual reports that display engagement, reach, performance, and other outcomes. Use data and outcomes to inform contributions to future communications strategy.
- Support website development by providing assistance with website updates, content creation, and optimization of user engagement; Assist in OCRTIX compliance with university protocols as well as state and federal legislation.
- Support the OCRTIX Director of Clery Compliance with the development and disbursement of Timely Warnings as a backup for the OCRTIX Director of Communications.
20% - Education & Training Programs
- Review training offerings and educational resources, providing thoughtful and detailed feedback to OCRTIX team and campus stakeholders regarding branding, design, language, etc.
- Assist in the development of materials (presentations, handouts, marketing, etc.) cultural competency and educational training opportunities for KU community members – staff, faculty, and/or students.
- Facilitate trainings and educational programs, as needed.
10% - Special Projects/Other Duties as Assigned
- Participate in rotation with other staff on job searches and campus committees, as needed.
- Regularly attend full OCRTIX staff meetings, as well as supervisor 1:1s.
- As needed, attend meetings on behalf of OCRTIX to take notes/minutes, capture major takeaways, and work with the OCRTIX Leadership Team to ensure follow up.
- Assist other staff members with special projects when needed.
- Other duties as assigned. As the OCRTIX and its work advance on campus, position. responsibilities may shift or change to meet office/staff needs.
- Bachelors degree in communications, public relations, marketing, journalism or related field with a minimum of 1 year of relevant experience.
- Strong communication and collaborative skills with a wide range of individuals, including administrators, faculty members, staff, and students as demonstrated by the application materials, interview and references.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, as demonstrated by previous experience successfully managing multiple competing priorities/projects.
- Previous experience with digital design tools, including Canva, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), and social media platforms (Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.).
- Previous experience in content creation and/or program development.
- Basic knowledge of website content management systems (e.g., CMS Sunflower, Drupal) and Search Engine Optimization (SEO).
- Demonstrated experience with Microsoft Suite (Teams, Excel, SharePoint, OneNote, Word, Outlook, etc.).
- Basic understanding of video editing and photography.
- Demonstrated understanding of best practices for accessibility standards.
- Proficiency with program management platforms (Asana preferred).
- Experience working with university communications teams or similar environments.
- Experience with social media reporting and analytics tools like Sprout Social or Hootsuite
- Previous work experience building community and promoting access, success, and belonging in higher education.
- Understanding of civil rights laws and protected classes, particularly in the context of higher education.
- Familiarity with/understanding of University of Kansas mission, vision, values, and Strategic Plans (Jayhawks Rising, RISE, One KU, etc. ).
- Project Management certification/credential.
- Cover letter describing how you meet the required and preferred qualifications.
- Resume/CV.
- List of three (3) professional references, with contact information.
Application review begins Friday, February 7, 2025, and will continue until a qualified pool of applicants are identified. To ensure consideration, please apply no later than Thursday, February 6, 2025.
Contact Information to ApplicantsKajsa Mullenix, kmullenix@ku.eduAdvertised Salary Range$45,000 - $52,000Work Schedule40 hours/week, Monday-Friday, 8 am-5 pm, with some evenings and weekends. This position requires in-office work a minimum of 4 days a week, at either KU Lawrence or KUMC.Application Review BeginsFriday February 7, 2025Anticipated Start DateMonday March 10, 2025Apply to JobOrganization
Working at the University of Kansas
Join the University of Kansas, and you’ll become part of a Jayhawk family that spans the globe. Wear your KU shirt in London, Istanbul, Buenos Aires, Nairobi or anywhere else, and you will likely hear a resounding “Rock Chalk!” from a stranger. Of course, the appropriate response is an enthusiastic “Jayhawk!” Because, after all, they’re not really strangers, they’re family.
The Jayhawk community is united by more than 150 years of tradition and by our commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge, transforming the academic experience, and creating solutions through innovative research. KU’s mission is to lift students and society by educating leaders, building healthy communities and making discoveries that change the world.
The University of Kansas is the state’s flagship university and one of just 66 invited members of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU). We consistently earn high rankings for academics and recognition as a premier research university.
KU faculty and staff embrace our role as the state’s flagship university, AAU member and R1 institution that serves the state, nation and world. We celebrate the energy and compassion that infuse the Jayhawk spirit; and, we remain true to KU’s historic values: the elevating force of education, the transformative power of research and the healing power of service.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
The University of Kansas is committed to a learning and workplace environment that is representative of our nation and global society, accepts and values everyone, appreciates our common humanity and understands that our multiple differences are the cornerstone of academic preparation, professional excellence and distinction. KU must be a place where all people feel they belong and have access to resources and support that help them attain their educational and professional goals.
We recognize there are inequalities and privileges generated by historical and persistent intersecting differences by race, ethnicity, gender identities, gender expressions, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, abilities, religion, regional background, veteran status, citizenship status and nationality. And we hold ourselves accountable for policies, processes and programs that appreciate these and other differences and create more fair, safe and just learning, working and living environments for KU students, faculty and staff.
Instruction
KU offers a broad array of undergraduate and graduate study programs, and we fulfill our mission through academic and research programs of international distinction, coupled with outstanding libraries, teaching museums and information technology. These resources enrich the academic experience for students from all 50 states and 112 countries, and provide enrichment resources for KU faculty and staff.
Research
The university attains high levels of research productivity and recognizes that faculty are part of a network of scholars and academicians that shape a discipline as well as teach it. KU staff are integral to our research success, participating in and supporting discoveries that expand knowledge and improve lives.
Service
The university and our employees serve society through research, teaching and the preservation and dissemination of knowledge. KU's academic programs, arts facilities and public programs provide cultural enrichment opportunities for the larger community. And, KU offers educational, research and service programs throughout the state. KU employees are encouraged to participate in and serve the campus and surrounding communities in a way that is meaningful to them.
International Dimension
KU offers more than 100 programs of international study and cooperative research for KU students and faculty at sites around the world. The university offers teaching and research that draw upon and contribute to the most advanced developments throughout the United States and abroad. At the same time, KU's extensive international ties support economic development in Kansas.
Values
The University of Kansas, our students and employees are committed to excellence. We foster a multicultural, inclusive environment in which the dignity and rights of individuals are respected. Intellectual diversity, integrity and disciplined inquiry in the search for knowledge are of paramount importance.
Our City and State
KU sits atop Mt. Oread in the center of Lawrence, a town full of natural beauty and culture. In fact, Rolling Stone magazine named Lawrence one of the best college towns in the United States. Lawrence is home to more than 100,000 people, and has a charming, Midwestern friendliness that welcomes visitors and celebrates diversity. In addition to KU, Lawrence is home to Haskell Indian Nations University, the premiere tribal university in the United States.
Lawrence’s historic and thriving downtown features restaurants, nightlife and local shops offering unique finds that you won’t find anywhere else. The town has more than 50 parks, an encompassing mixed-use trail, and quick access to biking/hiking trails along the Kansas River and around Clinton Lake. A five-minute drive from Lawrence, Clinton Lake offers fishing, boating, beaches, camping and other outdoor activities.
Located just 40 minutes west of Kansas City, Lawrence offers the appeal of a mid-size, suburban town with quick access to the amenities of a large city, including an international airport. The Kansas City metro area is home to world-class museums and cultural activities, Jazz clubs and other nightlife venues, expansive shopping options, and exciting professional sports with the Kansas City Chiefs, Kansas City Royals and Sporting KC.
Kansas is in the center of the country, making it convenient and cost effective to fly or drive to destinations throughout the United States. Far from flat, the Flint Hills, just 90 minutes from Lawrence, offer panoramic vistas that showcase the breathtaking beauty of America.
Making KU Your Home
Something about Lawrence is magnetic. Long-time residents are never surprised when a KU student or employee from out of state decides to make Lawrence their permanent home. And, even those who do leave often find themselves returning to “the nest” at some point in the future. In fact, Lawrence has been named by several publications as one of the best places to retire.
At the University of Kansas, you’ll join a global Jayhawk family and find a place to call home.
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