Communications Specialist

The Department of Computational & Systems Biology (CSB) at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine seeks a Communications Specialist to manage the department’s public communications strategy to share its work broadly; and to provide internal communications support for regular department operations. In support of the department, its educational programs, and its world-class research labs, this position will interact regularly with department heads, faculty, staff, students, researchers, and other relevant teams across the School of Medicine. The person who fills this position will be responsible not only for managing current operational and promotional communications, but also for driving the departmental communication strategy forward. This position will report to the Executive Administrator of the department as part of the CSB staff team.

Job Summary

Develops moderately complex web and print content and marketing. Acts as strategic contributor for communications team and creates diverse marketing materials for marketing team. Attends meetings designed for content planning and development. Ensures consistent messaging and maintains University brand and style.

Core Responsibilities • Work both collaboratively and independently to develop content that advances the mission of the department, educational programs, and affiliated centers; including management of department’s online presence (both websites and social media), recruitment strategies, event publicity, and other external/internal communications. • Support and implement growth strategy for department communications, including social media channels, web presence, news articles, multimedia content, educational program recruitment, and quality control and brand management for various websites across the department. • Carry out media relations in partnership with Communications and Marketing, including sourcing and writing pitches for external media and internal outlets (e.g. PittWire), developing relationships with journalists, and tracking, maintaining and sharing CSB media coverage • Promote and assist in organizing various seminar series, educational programs, socials, and other departmental events/initiatives through web, direct email correspondence, digital signage, and social media. • Design graphics, pamphlets, brochures, flyers, and bulletins for use with official print, digital signage, websites, and social media channels, working independently or outsourcing as needed. • Provide technical assistance with workshops and retreats (creating registration portals, websites, etc.), as well as the sourcing, designing, and editing of images and photographic materials. Required Skills/Abilities • Excellent written and verbal communication. • Demonstrated success in project management and execution. • Creative problem-solver with demonstrated interest in professional growth. • Strong organizational and time management skills. Essential technical skills: o Graphic design (Canva, Photoshop, etc.) o Web design/management (WordPress, Joomla, HTML, CSS, etc.), o Operational programs (Microsoft Office, PowerPoint, Adobe Acrobat, etc.) o Multimedia programs (Premiere, Illustrator, InDesign, Lightroom, etc.) o Social media (e.g., LinkedIn, YouTube, BlueSky, Instagram, X/Twitter, etc.) o Analytics (Google Analytics 4, Hootsuite, Meltwater etc.) Required Qualifications • Bachelor Degree in Marketing Communications, Communications or related field. • 3-5 years of experience in a writing-intensive communications role with technical responsibilities (graphic design, media relations, web management, etc.) The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity, and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets. The University of Pittsburgh requires all Pitt constituents (employees and students) on all campuses to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or have an approved exemption. Visit coronavirus.pitt.edu to learn more about this requirement

Most duties for this role can be completed at a computer/desk, but occasional responsibilities will include lifting and transporting equipment/materials up to 15 pounds and standing for prolonged periods of time.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.

The University of Pittsburgh requires all Pitt constituents (employees and students) on all campuses to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or have an approved exemption. Visit hr.pitt.edu/contact-ohr to learn more.