Communications And Marketing Specialist - Industrial Engineering Administration

Southern Arkansas University; Arkansas; On-site; USD 51,021 - 57,000; Full time

Job summary

A regional university in Arkansas is seeking a Communications and Marketing Specialist to develop marketing strategies, manage digital content, and coordinate events. The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, along with at least one year of experience in communications or marketing. Proficiency in graphic design tools and strong writing skills are essential. A writing sample and references are required with the application. The salary ranges from $51,021 to $57,000 based on experience and education.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• At least one year experience in communications or marketing.
• Writing sample required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute marketing strategies for departmental programs.
• Design and manage content for digital platforms.
• Plan and execute departmental events.

Skills

Strong writing and editing skills

Experience in social media management

Ability to create compelling content

Event planning experience

Knowledge of design and layout techniques

Education

Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, graphic design, journalism, or English

Tools

Adobe Creative Suite

Canva

WordPress

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Overview

Communications and Marketing Specialist for the Industrial Engineering Administration. Open until filled; early applications are encouraged as the position may close before the listed deadline once a suitable candidate is found.

Responsibilities

• Marketing & Communications: Develop and execute marketing and communication strategies to promote departmental programs, research initiatives, and events to internal and external audiences. Create compelling written, visual, and multimedia content for print, web, email, and social media channels. Maintain brand consistency and ensure compliance with University and College communications policies and visual identity standards.
• Digital Media Management: Design, produce, and update content for the departmental website, newsletters, annual report, scholarship booklet, and other digital platforms. Manage departmental social media accounts, including strategy, scheduling, and analytics. Monitor engagement and performance metrics to optimize communication effectiveness.
• Event Planning & Coordination: Lead the planning, coordination, and execution of key departmental events, including (but not limited to) the annual Capstone Symposium, the Student Awards Banquet, and First Year Engineering recruiting and decision day coordination. Provide support for additional events throughout the year, such as guest lectures, alumni gatherings, and student outreach activities. Collaborate with faculty, staff, students, and external partners to ensure smooth event logistics, promotion, and follow-up.
• Collaboration & Outreach: Work closely with departmental administrators and the College Director of Marketing and Communications to identify and highlight newsworthy activities and achievements. Coordinate with other academic units and external organizations to support shared initiatives and publicity efforts. Work closely with the Arkansas Academy of Industrial Engineering (AAIE) to maintain and update their website, design and distribute newsletters, and produce digital and print marketing and media materials that promote the Academy’s mission and activities.
• Attendance and Working Relationships: Regular, reliable, and non-disruptive attendance is an essential job duty, as is the ability to create and maintain collegial, harmonious working relationships with others.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, graphic design, journalism, English, or related field from an accredited institution of higher education
• At least one year experience in communications, marketing, graphic design, and/or social media management
• Evidence of strong writing and editing skills with attention to detail and deadlines - Writing sample required
• At least one year experience in event planning
• Applicable equivalencies may be considered on the above qualifications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency in graphic design and content management tools (Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, WordPress, Social Media platforms, etc.)
• At least two years experience in communications, marketing, and/or social media management
• At least two years experience in event planning
• Experience working in a higher education environment

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of University policies and logo compliance. Knowledge of design and layout techniques.
• Must possess skills and abilities related to data query and analysis using Workday and Microsoft Excel to support research for publication content.
• Ability to write descriptive, informative and accurate narratives.
• Ability to create web-based forms including surveys and applications and the ability to disseminate information, possibly utilizing graphic design (charts, graphics, animations).
• Ability to demonstrate artistic style and expertise in developing interactive presentations and web development.
• Ability to plan and execute events

Salary Information

$51,021-$57,000; commensurate with education and experience

Required Documents to Apply

Cover Letter/Letter of Application, List of three Professional References (name, email, business title), Resume, Writing Sample

Optional Documents

Other (see special instructions for details), Proof of Veteran Status, Unofficial/Official Transcript(s)