Communications Specialist

February 13, 2026

Full Time
Iowa City, IA
Posted 3 weeks ago

The University of Iowa Libraries seeks a communications specialist who will assist with strategically developing content for a wide variety
of channels and audiences. In addition, this position will provide support for engagement activities and work in collaboration with team
members, librarians, researchers, developers, and campus partners to help increase the visibility of the organization and its
services.

The communications specialist reports to the senior director of strategic communications and external relations at the UI
Libraries.

Key Areas of Responsibilities and Specific Job Tasks

Message Development and
Implementation

Develop and edit published stories, social media posts, talking points, video scripts, etc. for a range of
platforms and audiences.
Manage the Libraries’ social media channels. (Instagram, Facebook)
Create content for print and
electronic event materials.
Proofread and edit content using the university’s Editorial Style Guide as a reference.
Support
the Libraries mission through communication that builds awareness and appreciation for its people and services.
Ensure consistent
Libraries branding on all platforms.

Public Relations

Assist in media relations efforts and planning,
including creating relationships with media relations personnel. Pitch stories to media.
Provide support for outreach
events.
Collaborate with Libraries staff and partners to develop, plan, promote, and manage events.
Assist with coordinating
event details, including reserving spaces, food and drink orders, and A/V requirements as needed.

Information
Management

Assist with assessing outcomes of communication strategies, events, and activities and implement improvements as
directed.
Assist with e-mail campaign management.

Strategic Planning

Assist the senior director of
strategic communication and external relations in the development and implementation of strategic communication and marketing
plans.
Create and implement communication plans for a variety of Libraries announcements, initiatives, events,
etc.

Leadership/Supervision

May provide direction, assignments, and feedback to student workers and/or
staff.

Technical Competencies and Proficiency Level

Written Communications (Working) Knowledge of written
communications issues and ability to produce a variety of business documents that demonstrate command of language, clarity of thought, and
orderliness of presentation.

Produce written materials using the university’s Editorial Style Guide as a reference
Proofread
and edit content
Ensure that written messages are understood as intended
Adapt writing-language, form, style, tone-to
different audiences
Use various techniques for information dissemination and information gathering

Internal Communications
(Working)
Knowledge of and ability to develop, produce and distribute news, newsletters and other communications materials targeted at
the employees.

Participate in internal communication events or campaigns
Assess alternative delivery mechanisms for internal
communication
Assist in the development of internal communication materials
Resolve common internal communication problems
and obstacles

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in public relations, communication,
marketing, journalism, or related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Minimum 1 year experience in a
communications role or educational role involving strategic communications.
Experience in creating and editing content for wide
variety of audiences and channels (e.g., published stories, social media posts, promotional materials, talking points, video scripts, etc.)
as well as developing communication campaigns and plans.
Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills, with
proven ability to effectively meet deadlines.
Experience working in a team-based setting where consultation, flexibility, and
collaboration are essential.
Ability to think and plan across channels and develop effective communication
strategies.
Exceptional attention to detail, including copy-editing and following a style guide.
Desired
Qualifications:
Skilled in photography and videography. Familiarity working with Microsoft Office as well as Adobe
Creative Cloud photo editing (Photoshop, Lightroom) and video (Premiere Pro) software.
Experience in managing and creating content
for social media accounts.
Experience with planning and implementing events.
Experience creating and distributing email
newsletters.
Experience working in a higher education environment.
Application Details:

Applications are only accepted through the Jobs@UIOWA website.

In order to be eligible for interview, applicants
must upload the following and mark them as “relevant files” when you upload the documents. All three items are required as part of the
application process.
1. Cover letter that clearly addresses how you meet each of the required and any desired qualifications of this
  position. To ensure strongest consideration, applicants are encouraged to review all required qualifications and state directly how they
  meet each of them.
2. Current resume
3. Three examples of your work or provide a URL to online examples as part of the application
  process.
This job ad will be posted for a minimum of 14 days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after that date.
Please contact [email protected] if you have any questions about the position.

The
hiring salary range for this communication specialist position is $54,000 – $64,000.

Successful candidates will be required to
self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. Up to 5
professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.

This position is not eligible for University
sponsorship for employment authorization.

Joining the University of Iowa means becoming a vital part of the Hawkeye community,
where your work directly impacts education, research, and student success.
Enjoy exceptional health coverage, university-paid life
insurance, robust retirement plans, and generous leave policies. Benefit from 24/7 support services, well-being resources, and access to UI
Health Care specialists. Grow professionally with advanced training, leadership development, and tuition assistance.
Iowa City offers a
great quality of life with world-class performances at Hancher Auditorium, Big Ten athletics, top-ranked public schools, and outdoor
recreation.
Join us in making a difference at a leading Big Ten university and premier public research institution.

Additional
Information