Senior Communications Specialist

Updated: Jan 26, 2024
Location: Irvine-Campus
Job Type:
Department: Arts Deans Office

Job Opening ID: 63578
Reports To: Senior Director of Marketing and Communications 
Working Title: SENIOR COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST
Department: Arts Deans Office
Bargaining Unit: 99
FLSA: Exempt
Payroll Job Code: 007477
Job Location: UCI Campus- Irvine
Percent of Time: 100%
Work Schedule: M-F, 8-5
Employee Class: Staff

 

Position Summary:
 
Established in 1965, the Claire Trevor School of the Arts (CTSA) at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) has been a national leader in training emerging artists and performers. The school serves as UCI’s creative engine, dedicated to cultivating the artistic talents of over 820 undergraduate majors and 125 graduate students. Through a fusion of liberal arts principles, critical thinking, and hands-on experiences, CTSA empowers students to create, explore, and innovate in the realm of the arts. At the core of CTSA’s philosophy is the integration of creativity and technology across its diverse degree programs in Art, Dance, Drama, and Music. Additionally, the school serves as the public-facing entry to the university, hosting over 200 performances and exhibitions annually. This forward-looking approach ensures that students not only master the fundamentals of their craft but also engage in interdisciplinary collaborations that extend into the business community. The marketing and communication office provides a range of services for the school, including marketing, news and feature writing, media relations, photography, and community event planning and logistics. The team supports the dean’s office, academic departments, and various affiliate units and is responsible for the school’s triannual magazine, printed and online communications, the website, and social media channels.

 

The Senior Communications Specialist will collaborate with the Senior Director of Marketing and Communications, senior leadership and department clients to develop and implement strategic communications plans. Responsibilities include content creation and copywriting for various platforms, managing the school's triannual publication, CONNECT and serving as the Managing Editor. The role involves cultivating media relationships, writing news releases and coordinating press coverage. Additionally, the Senior Communications Specialist will oversee social media campaigns, engage with the online community, and analyze metrics for strategy refinement. Internal communications tasks include informing staff about key initiatives and assisting with crisis communication when necessary.

 

Total Compensation:

In addition to the salary range listed below, we offer a wealth of benefits to make working at UCI even more rewarding. These benefits may include medical insurance, sick and vacation time, retirement savings plans, and access to a number of discounts and perks. Please utilize the links listed here to learn more about our compensation practices and benefits .

 

 
$73,900.00 - $112,000.00 (Annual Salary) Expected Pay Range within the Full Salary Range $73,900.00 - $133,700.00 (Annual Salary)

 

Department Website:

https://www.arts.uci.edu/directory
 

Required:
 

• At least five (5) years+ of related experience executing digital communications, marketing or written communications with proven organizational skills. 
• Considerable experience in persuasive writing, editing solicitation letters, articles, business letters, scripts and other communication materials. 
• Experience in media relations, including short and long-lead publications preferred. 
• Experience managing vendor relationships.
• Bachelor's degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training.
• Must possess a valid California driver’s license.
• Ability to advise and collaborate with management, ensuring the effective delivery of messages to targeted or broad audiences. 
• Possession of strong written and verbal communication skills, along with interpersonal abilities, active listening, and political acumen.

 

Preferred:
 

• Undergraduate or graduate degree in journalism, public relations, marketing, communications or related subject preferred.
• Comprehensive understanding of communication, encompassing strategic planning across diverse media platforms, technical requirements of different venues, and the most suitable and impactful applications. 
• Proficiency in the performance arts and studio arts to enhance persuasive writing and press outreach efforts. 
• Proven capability to articulate persuasively on the value of arts education and philanthropy in higher education, demonstrating meticulous attention to detail and exceptional proofreading skills. 
• Writing expertise extends to feature stories, promotional materials, solicitation letters, correspondence, and executive communication. 
• Competence in technical applications for directing technical staff or personally executing technical work, involving design concepts, diverse media, and applications. 
• In-depth knowledge of the organization, including its achievements, mission, vision, goals, policies, practices, and infrastructure. Additionally, a strong understanding of current affairs and issues in higher education for the arts. 
• Familiarity and experience with various social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Flickr, YouTube, Twitter, and other emerging platforms. Previous work with design programs, such as Adobe Creative Suite is preferred. Social media marketing/communications experience preferred. 
• Background in entertainment, higher education or and arts industry preferred.

 

Special Conditions Required:
 

• Must pass background check. 
• Position qualifies for a hybrid work schedule, with supervisor approval. 
• May be required to work occasional evenings and weekends. 
• May be required to drive on occasion in order to perform the routine or essential job responsibilities for the position.

 

Conditions of Employment:
The University of California, Irvine (UCI) seeks to provide a safe and healthy environment for the entire UCI community. As part of this commitment, all applicants who accept an offer of employment must comply with the following conditions of employment:

• Background Check and Live Scan
• Legal Right to work in the United States
• Vaccination Policies
• Smoking and Tobacco Policy
• Drug Free Environment

The following additional conditions may apply, some of which are dependent upon business unit or job specific requirements.

• California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act
• E-Verify
• Pre-Placement Health Evaluation

Details of each policy may be reviewed by visiting the following page - https://hr.uci.edu/new-hire/conditions-of-employment.php
 

Closing Statement:

The University of California, Irvine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer advancing inclusive excellence. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC nondiscrimination policy .
We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce along with honoring unique experiences, perspectives, and identities. Together, our community strives to create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable, and welcoming.
UCI provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities upon request. For more information, please contact Human Resources at (949) 824-0500 or [email protected]

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