U of I Visiting Information and Media Specialist

Office of University Relations

Visiting Information and Media Specialist

Urbana (Preferred) or Chicago Campus


The University of Illinois seeks a Visiting Information and Media Specialist. This position will focus on researching, writing, and preparing information about current issues and internal and external policies for websites, printed publications, and mass communications for University Administration at the University of Illinois. Additional responsibilities include:
Duties:

1. Researching and writing text for the web and for printed materials including the annual report and campus faculty/staff newspapers.

2. Researching and writing news releases, bios, media advisories, mass mail content, FAQs, and similar information.

3. Developing and maintaining the University Relations and President’s websites as well as the core University of Illinois website pages.

4. Serving as an office content authority for specific topical areas as assigned by consulting with UA subject-matter experts and translating that expertise to communications vehicles (web pages, mass mail content, etc).

5. Serving as editor of Pocket Facts and the annual report, under the direction of the Senior Associate Director.

6. Assisting the Executive Director and Senior Associate Director in developing and carrying out tactics linked to a strategic communication plan designed to enhance understanding and support of the mission and activities of the University of Illinois.
Qualifications:

Minimum qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, English, political science, or related field with three years of experience with public affairs/university relations/community relations and/or media relations, including experience with electronic media. Other required qualifications include: excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences; capacity and flexibility to manage many projects simultaneously and meet deadlines; collaborative approach to information development; the consistent exercise of discretion and judgment in contacting sources of information and disseminating information to the general public and the ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information; ability to research information efficiently using online resources; ability to interview (in person, by phone, via email) subjects and accurately apply information; ability to filter and summarize information accurately; a knowledge of the University of Illinois and public higher education issues generally; understanding of style guides; strong writing and editorial skills; excellent software skills (MS Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Internet Explorer); ability to learn and use University Administration’s content management software as well as other software packages and systems utilized by the Office of University Relations. Preferred qualifications include: ability to think strategically and creatively about the role of communications to achieve institutional goals; a demonstrated ability to strategize, to work collaboratively, and to manage effectively multiple priorities and projects; quick response time; experience with production of print publications; excellent interpersonal skills and institutional judgment.

This is a full-time, 12-month Visiting Academic Professional position with the possibility of becoming a regular Academic Professional position in the future. The position may be located in Urbana (preferred) or Chicago. For full consideration, candidates must apply to and submit a letter of application, resume, and names/addresses/phone numbers of three references by April 26, 2011 at https://uajobs.hr.uillinois.edu/



Employee Relations and Human Resources

271 Henry Administration Building, MC 341

506 South Wright Street

Urbana, IL 61801

(217) 333-2600

https://uajobs.hr.uillinois.edu/default.cfm?page=job&jobID=7095&returnPage=


The University of Illinois is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer dedicated to building a community of excellence, equity and diversity. University Administration welcomes applications from women, underrepresented minorities, persons with disabilities, sexual minority groups and other candidates who will lead and contribute to the diversification and enrichment of ideas and perspectives.