Communications Specialist I 528799

Pay Grade/Pay Range:Minimum: $44200 - Midpoint: $55300 (Salaried E6)

Department/Organization:750501 - Alabama Water Institute (AWI)

Normal Work Schedule:Monday - Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm

Job Summary:The Communications Specialist I writes and edits communications for a department college and/or division under general supervision. Develops and implements plans activities and tactics to support the goals of assigned areas. Coordinates the production of materials and resources through a variety of platforms including digital and physical mediums.

Additional Department Summary:Advances CIROHs mission to improve water prediction and decision support nationwide by expanding the institutes communication and research dissemination capacity. Supports strategic communication priorities across research education and engagement initiatives including development of scientific communication materials proposal-related support consortium collaboration and media and outreach coordination. Works closely with CIROH leadership the Science Team researchers across the consortium and external partners to translate technical work into accessible compelling narratives for stakeholders ranging from scientific audiences to general public and decision-makers. Contributes to communication-focused workshops and training programs strengthening CIROHs national workforce development and education efforts. Ensures CIROH research and programs are visible impactful and aligned with federal and national water prediction priorities through content development research support and communication skill-building activities

Required Minimum Qualifications:Bachelors degree and some journalism public relations marketing or communications experience.

Skills and Knowledge:Strong writing editing and storytelling skills for scientific and general audiences. Ability to translate complex research into accessible compelling narratives. Familiarity with scientific communication practices research environments and proposal development processes. Basic multimedia and graphic support skills (e.g. Canva Adobe or similar tools). Strong organizational project management and coordination skills. Ability to work collaboratively with researchers leadership and multi-institution partners.

Preferred Qualifications:Knowledge of hydrology climate science or Earth sciences. Experience developing content for web email and social media platforms. Experience in science communication journalism public relations or related fields. Experience supporting academic or federal research projects including proposal development reporting and technical content dissemination. Experience delivering communication workshops or training programs. Familiarity with hydrology climate science or related technical subjects. Experience creating digital content for web social media newsletters and multimedia. Proficiency with content management systems email marketing tools and basic graphic/multimedia software (e.g. Adobe Creative Suite Canva).

Background Investigation Statement: Prior to hiring the final candidate(s) must successfully pass a pre-employment background investigation and information obtained from social media and other internet sources. A prior conviction reported as a result of the background investigation DOES NOT automatically disqualify a candidate from consideration for this position. A candidate with a prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags will receive an individualized review of the prior conviction or negative behavioral red flags before a hiring decision is made.