Communications Specialist

Job Description

The Communications Specialist will drive internal communications public relations strategy and news writing for the Division of Information Technology. The specialist will develop and implement communications plans to inform stakeholders; elevate priority areas of impact in research service and technology development; and collaborate with units and working groups to identify and craft messages for both internal and external audiences. Skill in uncovering and crafting compelling stories andsharing the social benefits of complex technological advancements are important in this role.The specialist will work to enhance and evaluate the divisions web presence and marketing efforts direct social media efforts and maintain content on multiple communications platforms. Reporting to the Director of Communications for the Division of IT the specialist will oversee division websites and create content that communicates our vision and achievements in service to Virginia Tech.

The ability to collaborate responsively and build strong relationships with a variety of stakeholders departmental partners and clients is very important in this role. The ability to provide creative direction and constructive feedback on projects is essential. The specialist will establish and maintain a calendar of regular updates and notices; support the development of the Divisions annual reports; manage social media accounts; help plan and support university-wide initiatives including conferences workshops and seminars; and support the leadership team service owners and others with their public-facing addition the specialist will work to align messaging with our strategic plan and core values as well as university branding and strategic objectives. A strong commitment to producing timely accurate and engaging content is key.

Applicants should include three examples of work that demonstrate writing skills and showcase a diverse portfolio of video photo design or social media content.

Required Qualifications

- Bachelors degree in Communication Public Relations or a related field; or a combination of education training and experience that equates to a Bachelors degree
- Experience working with organizations to enhance their communication efforts
- Exceptional skill in producing accurate versatile and high-quality writing
- Organization creativity flexibility and self-motivation
- Demonstrated experience as a professional communicator applying both skills and theory
- Working knowledge and experience with a web content management system
- Excellent communication interpersonal and organizational skills
- Demonstrated skill in working effectively in a team environment
- Excellent research and interview skills
- The ability to optimize content for various channels and audiences

Preferred Qualifications

- Specialized working knowledge in social media management SEO and analytics video or audio program development photography or photo editing creative direction of graphic design projects and/or marketing

Pay Band

4

Overtime Status

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Regular

Salary Information

$52000 - $64000

Hours per week

40

Review Date

5/13/26

Additional Information

Sponsorship is not available for this position.

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its mottoUt Prosim(That I May Serve) Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world Virginia Tech is aninclusive communitydedicated to knowledge discovery and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36000 undergraduate graduate and professional students in eightundergraduate colleges aschool of medicine aveterinary medicinecollegeGraduate School andHonors university has a significant presence across Virginia including Blacksburg the greater Washington D.C. area the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke sites in Newport News and Richmond and numerousExtension officesandresearch institutes.A leading global research institution Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.