Communications Specialist

Description:

Essential Job Functions:

• Write, edit, and proofread content used to promote college programs, events, and services to both internal and external audiences; ensures messaging is on-brand.
• Under the direction of the Director, support media relations efforts of the department by fielding media calls and responding to requests, coordinating interviews as appropriate, and pitching story ideas.
• Collaborate with the Marketing Social Media Committee to implement college social media strategy. Plan, create and update social media content for Parkland College official social media platforms, as well as monitor activity and coordinate responses to engagement.
• Contribute to the conceptual development of print, digital, and broadcast materials.
• In collaboration with the Graphic Designer-Media Communications, create and update web content on the Parkland College website and portal.
• Compile employee information/imagery and write internal monthly newsletter.
• Develop and maintain client relationships.
• Assist with the training and supervision of student employees and/or interns.
• Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Public Relations, Communications or related field and one year of experience in news writing or public relations writing or an equivalent combination of education and related work experience.
• Functional knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Superior knowledge of grammar, spelling and vocabulary. Proofreading and editing skills. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Excellent brainstorming, writing, and editorial experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience creating news or public relations copy.
• Willingness to embrace feedback and produce revision in a timely manner.
• Ability to work independently as well as on a team.
• In an effort to comply with SURS return-to-work restrictions for employers (40 ILCS 5/15-139.5), candidates for employment at Parkland College must either not be a SURS annuitant or must be willing to suspend his/her SURS annuity upon employment. This applies to all SURS annuitants except those receiving their annuity under either the Self-Managed Plan (SMP) or by lump sum payment.