Position Information

Position Number

01354W

Position Title

Communications Specialist

Employment Category

Full Time Operational

Location

William & Mary

Department

530000 University Communications

Unit Mission Statement

University Communications serves as William & Mary’s central communications office. The office is made up of two teams that support and promote the overall vision, mission and values of the university. The University News & Media team serves as the primary link to the press and media on all communications fronts including campus-wide press releases, manages university-level social media channels, and produces online W&M News features and photography that promote and celebrate the work of faculty, staff and students. The team also serves as the lead on research communications and crisis communications. The University Web & Design team works in partnership with campus communication professionals to establish creative vision for university, leadership and internal communications. The team provides a suite of services to support implementation of that vision including collaborative planning, concepts, design, strategy and communications tools.

Position Summary

The Communications Specialist serves as a writer, both in beat areas on campus and on general assignment, and works with our Media Relations team to pitch faculty as experts to local, regional and national news outlets. The position’s primary beats will focus on science, technology, data and research. Additional duties may include editing and posting stories for W&M News and working with the entire University Communications team on special projects, major events, analytics and crisis management as needed.

Reporting to the Senior Associate Director of News & Media within University Communications, the Communications Specialist will lead with university values to foster a culture of belonging and trust that embraces all people and perspectives. This position is based in Williamsburg and is expected to work in the office on campus, eligible to work remotely up to two days per week.

Review the full position description with all job duties under the “Featured Job Opportunities” on the University Advancement recruitment website: https://advancement.wm.edu/come-work-with-us/open-positions/index.php

Conditions of Employment

1. This is a non-exempt position, eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act.
2. This position may be subject to overtime during high peak times, etc. as directed and approved by the supervisor.

Essential Designation

No

FLSA

Non-Exempt

Position Restricted?

No, this is a continuing E&G funded position and not term-limited

Position Term

12 month - Continuing

Position Months

Faculty or Staff: 12 month

Required Qualifications

1. High school diploma or equivalent.
2. Outstanding news and feature writing skills.
3. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with a public relations mindset.
4. Ability to write and edit quickly and meet deadlines.
5. Experience in media relations and crisis communications or related work.
6. Demonstrated knowledge of WordPress and Google Analytics, the latest Microsoft Office suite and Adobe Creative Suite.
7. Knowledge of Associated Press style and proficiency in social media usage and analytics.

Preferred Qualifications

1. Undergraduate degree or training in journalism, communications or a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
2. Previous experience in higher ed, public relations, journalism, public contact or related activities with a focus on science, technology and research preferred.

Is the position remote work eligible?

Hybrid (works remotely at least 1 day per week but not full-time)

Remote Work Disclaimer

Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor’s ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.

Advertised Pay Range

Up to $50,000, commensurate with experience

Advertised Pay Range Statement

All hiring rates are commensurate with relevant experience up to the advertised amount considering internal alignment.

University Salary Range

U08

Benefits Summary Statement

William & Mary offers our employees a full array of benefits including retirement, health insurance with options for expanded dental and vision along with group and optional life insurance with coverage for spouse and children, flexible spending accounts, and an EAP (Employee Assistance Program).

Our employees enjoy additional university benefits such as educational assistance, professional development, wellness benefits, and a robust holiday schedule. All employees have access to fitness facilities on campus. Staff members also have access to the university libraries, and much more. To learn more, go to: https://www.wm.edu/offices/uhr/benefits/index.php?type=none

Job Open Date

02/26/2025

Review Begin Date

03/19/2025

Job Close Date

Open Until Filled

Yes

Special Application Instructions

Background Check Statement

William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

EEO Statement

William & Mary values diversity and invites applications from underrepresented groups who will enrich the research, teaching and service missions of the university. The university is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and encourages applications from women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

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