Communications Specialist

University Communications’ mission is to enhance Montana State University’s public image, increase the public’s awareness of MSU’s accomplishments and develop consistent communications that build the university’s reputation. University Communications provides a wide range of services to the university through its operational units: the News Service, Creative Services, Web and Digital Communications, University Marketing, University Printing and Montana PBS. Its staff includes writers, editors, graphic designers, photographers, video producers, publications specialists, marketing and licensing specialists, social media specialists, Web programmers and printers.

Under the supervision of the director of the MSU News Service, this position will function as a writer, editor, web manager and general communications specialist responsible for creating content to be used for media releases, publications, marketing materials, the Web and other purposes, as well as providing general communications support in their areas of responsibility.

The position will assist with other projects and duties as delegated and assist with emergency communications as needed.
Duties and Responsibilities

Function as a writer and editor responsible for researching, interviewing, writing, coordinating and editing copy on a broad range of topics to be used for media releases, publications, marketing materials, the web, social media and other purposes.
Updating university websites through the university’s content management system.
The person in this position will coordinate and work with all the University Communications units, primarily, but not exclusively news, web, marketing and creative services, and video and photography.
The position will assist the University Communications directors with other projects and duties as delegated, including but not limited to leadership communications support, event support, newsletters, annual reports, oversight of branded materials and other duties.
Assist with emergency communications as needed.

Required Qualifications

Substantial experience that includes writing, editing and proofreading on tight publication deadlines.
Experience working with a Web content management system, such as Wordpress, Squarespace or Blox.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working as a daily newspaper journalist.
Experience writing in multiple styles including for the Web, marketing materials, news releases, technical writing and persuasive writing.
Experience including institutional branding in written materials.
Experience translating technical and academic language to be understood by a wider audience.

The Successful Candidate Will

Possess a high-degree of knowledge of English grammar and punctuation.
Have proven track record of writing for news media or marketing entities.
Have a passion for higher education.
Work well with photography and video editors to enhance content.
Think creatively to increase a story or event’s media potential.
Have an understanding of web, social media and traditional print media.
Maintain attention to detail, meet deadlines and prioritize competing demands.
Have the ability to work independently on a wide variety of tasks. Exercise good judgment and self-motivation.
Receive and incorporate editing feedback.
Work productively in a team-oriented environment.