Working/Functional Title

FCCP Learning and Media Manager

Position Summary

The Department of Forestry at Michigan State University invites applications for a full-time Communications Manager (FCCP Learning and Media Manager) as an integral team member within the Forest Carbon and Climate Program (FCCP) to increase science translation, develop creative content and contribute to and elevate FCCP activities.  This position will play a lead role in developing the FCCP’s presence in digital, social media, and printed formats.  The successful candidate will develop and execute communication strategies, manage FCCP network relations, make creative contributions to FCCP projects, and carry out creative services.  This is an end-dated (12 months), grant-funded, union position, with extension possible depending on continued funding availability.

This role is a unique opportunity for a creative, talented and experienced professional to contribute to science communications for a range of FCCP activities as well as oversee outreach and engagement on FCCP research and projects to external audiences. The Communications Manager will: contribute to and manage development of publications (posters, flyers, newsletters, reports); develop internal and external communications and brand strategy to align with department and university goals; oversee design, composition, and editing of website, print content, news releases, social media posts; develop and execute social media strategy, leveraging project outputs and visuals from FCCP research and creative projects; oversee marketing plan to elevate FCCP outputs and learning opportunities; supervise student employees – mentor to help develop content and to undertake tasks like updating the website and posting to social media; act as accessibility liaison (remediate and design accessible content, closed captioning); manage communication with an aim to continually connect to FCCP network expertise and alums from professional trainings; develop and maintain contact information database of alumni, donors, and other interested individuals involved in the FCCP; share updates on FCCP research and outputs in a strategic and timely manner; lead creative projects and activities needed to fulfill sponsored projects, particularly those with creative emphasis such as design, video production, and engagement; synthesize of FCCP research findings and communication to various audiences; coordinate outputs across the team, engaging in interpretation of research to communicate to a range of users and audiences; maintain a suite of FCCP tools and resources, including creative content; share FCCP content as needed to external actors; and carry out the following creative services (directly or through mentoring student employees and/or overseeing outside services: graphic design, photography, video editing and production, social media campaigns.

Unit Specific Education/Experience/Skills

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Journalism, Telecommunications, or Public Relations; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in public and media relations, composing, editing and publication production, news, broadcasting, and print media, and/or marketing, advertising, and creative services; graphic design; word processing; desktop publishing; web design; presentation; spreadsheet and/or database software; public presentation; or radio production; or computer programming/technology; experience managing content for social media channels; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Desired Qualifications

Experience in the use of various writing styles (including AP) and editing techniques, web communications, media relationships (including handling interview requests, writing press releases and arranging interviews), editing video and photos, using advanced software such as Adobe products as well as communications software like email communication managers.  Ability to handle multiple projects at once in a fast-paced and upbeat environment.  Experience in communicating on science, natural resources, forestry, or climate change. 

Advanced degree in Communications, Public Relations, or Related field.  At least seven years of experience preferred, working in diverse environments.  Robust portfolio including science-based communications.  We seek a motivated self-starter, highly creative and independent individual, with a focus on high-quality outputs and continually learning new and creative communication tactics and approaches. The individual should be comfortable working with science-based information and outputs, using data from research and projects to undertake ambitious communications projects.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Upload the following required documents: a) letter of interest that details your qualifications for the position, how you have supported diversity in past employment and how you will contribute to our goals of inclusive excellence; b) current resume; and c) contact information for three professional references.   If possible, please include a link to your portfolio within your resume.

Together-we-will Statement

Special Instructions

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Description of End Date

This is an off dated position for 12 months from date of hire with possible extension contingent upon funding renewal.

Website

for.msu.edu

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Bidding eligibility ends on 6/21/2022 at 11:55 PM