Communications Specialist

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Communications Specialist.

Position Details

Location Hattiesburg

118 College Drive
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001
United States

Division University Communications

Position Type Staff

Employment Status Full Time

Grant Funded No

Pay Grade
E08

Posting Close Date Open Until Filled

Job Summary
The Communication Specialist will support content development across the University's website. This position will be responsible for generating high-quality, engaging web content, working closely with campus partners to align web content with institutional marketing strategies and goals. The Communication Specialist reports to the Assistant Director for Web Strategy and Development.

Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities

Generates high-quality, engaging web content for usm.edu in alignment with the University's marketing and communications priorities. Considers web user needs and search optimization to develop and organize web content.
Writes and edits web copy, ensuring accuracy and consistency. Identifies appropriate images and videos for maximum impact.
Inputs, organizes, and formats web content using a content management system, ensuring optimal web usability and engagement. Ensures content remains updated while implementing web accessibility practices to ensure compliance.
Utilizes analytics tools to retrieve website data to measure effectiveness. Interprets data to make recommendations and generate reports.
Collaborates and engages with units across campus to understand and address website needs.
Facilitates regular CMS training to content editors across campuses, sharing institutional digital guidelines and best practices.

Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, marketing, or a related field from an accredited college or university and two years of professional experience, within the last five years, in digital communications, marketing, public relations, or a closely related field.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA)

Strong writing and editing skills
Strong communication and collaboration skills
Ability to work independently
Demonstrated ability to pay close attention to details
Ability to analyze, organize and prioritize work while meeting multiple deadlines
Ability to analyze and prepare concise reports
Ability to review work for accuracy
Ability to process and handle confidential information with discretion
Ability to communicate and interact effectively with a diverse group of people.
Knowledge of, or the ability to learn, University policies and procedures
Basic knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook
Ability to complete occasional day travel to other USM locations to fulfill job responsibilities

Preferred Qualifications

Two or more years professional experience in web content creation using CMS
Experience in higher education marketing or communications
General knowledge of HTML and CSS languages
Working knowledge of SEO
Experience in web accessibility standards
Experience with digital asset management
Proficiency in web analytics tools

About The University of Southern Mississippi
Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We're developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.

University of Southern Mississippi, The

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