Outreach and Communications Specialist

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Job Title:Outreach and Communications Specialist

Department:Academic Programs | Sustainability Institute

Sustainability Institute Overview:

The Sustainability Institute at The Ohio State University accelerates interdisciplinary research and education that advance sustainability solutions by catalyzing and connecting Ohio State faculty, students and partners. We foster transdisciplinary knowledge and research by supporting nearly 400 affiliated faculty across the university; expand education and workforce development opportunities for students and current workers; translate knowledge into practice by leveraging campus as a living laboratory; build the capacity of Ohio State and its sustainability community; and develop and expand strategic collaborations with external partners. We are seeking individuals who are passionate about making a difference through bringing people together, reaching key audiences and telling our story. To learn more about our work, please visit si.osu.edu.

Job Summary/Overview:

The outreach and communications specialist of the Sustainability Institute advances the unit’s research and education mission by engaging strategic audiences of faculty, students, donors and community partners through impactful events and targeted communications. The individual will co-develop and execute an annual outreach and communications plan, manage engagement databases of key constituencies such as affiliated faculty, serve as the main point of contact for marketing and communications issues, and ensure the unit meets the university’s digital accessibility standards. They will collaborate closely with institute team members to promote the unit’s engagement opportunities, achievements and impact.

35%: Outreach and engagement programming: Plan, promote and help execute outreach activities targeting internal and/or external audiences, including conferences, seminars, community-based events, using both virtual and in-person formats. Develop collateral for events such as digital flyers, social media promotion, engaging promotion partners, printed signage and programs. Responsible for event logistics including room and catering reservations, event supplies, RSVP tracking and zero waste options. Manages the institute’s main outreach databases for key audiences, especially affiliated faculty.

35%: Communications development and execution: Manage the Sustainability Institute’s website, newsletters, social media and other communications channels to promote SI and its programs, events, initiatives and resources while elevating sustainability research and education across Ohio State. Generate original content (text, photos and video) about programs supported by the institute. Market special programs including the Masters of Energy Sustainability, SUSTAINS student community and research support services. Responsible for the timely creation, vetting and delivery of the internal and external newsletters. Draft and publish the Sustainability Institute’s annual report.

15%: Strategic planning for outreach and communications: With input from Sustainability Institute team members, develop and execute against an annual outreach and communications plan. Collaborate with the Office of Academic Affairs Marketing and Communications on strategic marketing and communications planning and shared support resources such as web infrastructure, digital accessibility and graphic design. Support the growth of the public profile of the Sustainability Institute’s Director.

5%: Digital Accessibility Coordinator: Serve as the Sustainability Institute’s digital accessibility coordinator to ensure compliance with university standards. Attend monthly internal meetings and determine any areas of attention. Assign annual training and monitor staff progress. Draft unit’s annual reporting document.

10%: Special projects and other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
• 2 years of relevant experience

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in communications, marketing, journalism, public relations or a related field required.
• Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience
• Excellent written communication skills with superior attention to detail.
• Strong creative and strategic thinking abilities with the capacity to generate new ideas and communications campaigns.
• Demonstrated proficiency in digital communication tools and platforms, including content management systems, social media management tools, and analytics software. Experience applying AI to related tasks preferred.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively, managing multiple priorities and deadlines

Preferred Qualifications

• 4 years of relevant experience

Additional Information:

Please submit both a cover letter and a resume to be considered for this opportunity.

The Targeted Hiring Range for this position is $51,500 - $67,000. The actual salary paid to an individual will vary based on multiple factors, including but not limited to, education, years of experience, internal equity, etc.

Function: Marketing and Communications

Subfunction: Marketing and Communications

Band: Specialized

Level: 2

Location:Smith Laboratory (0065)

Position Type:Regular

Scheduled Hours:40

Shift:First Shift

Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post offer process.

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The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and disability.