Communications Specialist in Ann Arbor, Michigan

Communications Specialist

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How to Apply

A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

Job Summary

Two of Michigan Medicine’s distinguished and growing research organizations are seeking a communications specialist whose effort will be shared between the units.

Under the supervision of the communications manager of the Mary H Weiser Food Allergy Center and Taubman Institute, the communications specialist will produce content, contribute to print publications, assist with digital communications, assist with the development of executive communications materials and presentations, and be part of both organizations’ event planning teams.

This position will be part of the Communication Community of Practice and will act as primary liaison for The Mary H Weiser Food Allergy Center and Taubman Institute with the Michigan Medicine Department of Communication, following policies and guidelines set by the institution and coordinating communication efforts ensuring alignment with institutional strategies.

Mission Statement

Michigan Medicine improves the health of patients, populations and communities through excellence in education, patient care, community service, research and technology development, and through leadership activities in Michigan, nationally and internationally. Our mission is guided by our Strategic Principles and has three critical components; patient care, education and research that together enhance our contribution to society.

Responsibilities*

Writing

• As assigned, report and write briefs and articles about funded scientific projects

• In coordination with the Department of Communications PR team, identify and produce other newsworthy content to highlight our research and scientific work, such as Q&As, faculty profiles and lay-friendly science primers

• Contribute to the production of an annual magazine for each unit

Image management

• Organize and maintain multiple image libraries in Dropbox

• Schedule and attend photo shoots as needed in consultation with leaders

• Edit photos for publication on digital platforms and for print

Graphic Design

• Create explanatory graphics to accompany science articles

• Execute publicity materials for events

• Produce print document layouts (brochures, annual magazines and ad hoc executive and development communications)

• Assist with PowerPoint presentations

Multimedia

• Assist in website content management and the production of bi-monthly digital newsletters

• In coordination with the Department of Communication, assist with the production of podcasts and ad hoc webinars

• Manage social media channels and analytics

• In coordination with the Department of Communication , update and manage YouTube channels

• Supervise freelance photographers, videographers and designers

Required Qualifications*

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in journalism, public relations or English, OR equivalent combination of education and experience.

• 5+ years of relevant professional experience in communications and outreach.

• Strong narrative and newswriting skills, including the ability to write for multiple audiences and at varying literacy levels.

• Proofreading and copy-editing expertise

• Proficiency in MS Office products including Word and Excel

• Proficiency in file sharing software such as Dropbox, Google Drive

• Proficiency in communication software such as Zoom and Teams

• Proficiency in Adobe creative software including Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator

• Familiarity with video and audio editing software

• Familiarity with Drupal and WordPress content management platforms

• Familiarity with Mail Chimp and other e-newsletter platforms

• Exceptional time management and organizational skills

Desired Qualifications*

• Ability to collaborate with a wide variety of colleagues and stakeholders, including ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing with faculty and staff.

• Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and cultural competency through actions, interactions, and communications with others.

• Ability to juggle multiple work priorities and projects, providing balanced support to both organizations

Work Schedule

This is a hybrid position with a set work schedule of 16-20 hours spent on the medical campus to allow regular interaction with faculty, research teams, and administrative staff. The remaining hours of this full-time position may be worked remotely with availability for e-mail, phone and Zoom communication during standard business hours

Flexibility in work hours is required with some on-campus, off-site and evening hours for events, community engagement and meetings, as well as attending in-person staff meetings in Ann Arbor

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about thework modes (https://hr.umich.edu/working-u-m/my-employment/ways-we-work-resource-center/ways-we-work-implementation-group/modes-work) .

Background Screening

Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings. Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

Job Detail

Job Opening ID

255649

Working Title

Communications Specialist

Job Title

Communications Specialist

Work Location

Ann Arbor Campus

Ann Arbor, MI

Modes of Work

Hybrid

Full/Part Time

Full-Time

Regular/Temporary

Regular

FLSA Status

Exempt

Organizational Group

Medical School

Department

MM Mary H Weiser Food Allergy

Posting Begin/End Date

10/11/2024 – 11/15/2024

Career Interest

Communications & Marketing

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