Communications Officer

If you are an internal applicant, please update your current union status in your candidate profile each time you apply for a vacancy. Internal candidates will be given priority consideration at this time. Please note: Carleton University encourages applications from all qualified candidates.

Carleton is looking for a high-performing individual to play a key role in its central communications team. Working within a newly expanded Department of University Communications, successful candidates will have a talent for finding and telling stories that support the university’s vision and brand. The position is well suited for curious communicators, creative thinkers, self-starters, and those who thrive in a collaborative environment. Knowledge of the university’s culture and institutional goals and objectives is desirable, as is an understanding of reputation and issues management.

About the Department of University Communications
University Communications reports directly to the President’s Office. It provides the university community with strategic direction, advice and support to enhance Carleton’s reputation for academic excellence, research and exceptional student experience. It also supports and co-ordinates a highly effective network of communications professionals in programs, faculties, schools and departments.

About Carleton University
Situated on a beautiful campus bordered by the Rideau River and Canal, Carleton is just minutes from the heart of our nation’s government and enjoys easy access to the many organizations, associations and businesses which thrive in Ottawa. As members of a dynamic, research-intensive university, Carleton’s faculty and staff provide a superior learning experience for our fine students who hail from every province and more than 100 countries around the world.

Job Number:  J1021-0404

Job Title:  Communications Officer

Job Type:  Continuing Full Time

Department:  Communications

Job Category:  Communications

Number of Positions:  1

Date Posted (dd/mm/yyyy):  13/10/2021

Closing Date (dd/mm/yyyy):  21/10/2021

Salary (with Salary Rate):  78,373.00 - 85,792.00/Year

Employee Group:  Administrative Staff - CUPE 2424

Salary Level:  10PE

Date Position Available:  01/11/2021

Reporting to the Manager of Communications, the Communications Officer will plan, implement, evaluate and report on an integrated corporate communications program to advance Carleton university’s profile and reputation. Collaborating with colleagues from across campus, the incumbent is responsible for the coordination, deployment and measurement of effective communications strategy across web, social media and traditional channels – internal and external. The position requires flexibility and the ability to pivot to emerging requirements on any given day, including the support of issue and crisis management.

The incumbent must possess the following qualifications:
• Strong background in planning and use of corporate communications including social media and other digital platforms;
• Superior writing and editing skills, especially in the area of storytelling;
• Able to translate difficult subjects into accessible and compelling language;
• Exceptional interpersonal skills in building and maintaining effective relationships;
• Ability to work independently and in co-operation with the Manager of Communications and other members of the department, as well as communications officers across campus;
• Ability to work to tight deadlines and communicate effectively with a broad range of university clients and external publics;
• Good understanding of the requirements of major and specialist news media;
• Creativity, resourcefulness, initiative, sensitivity, tact and discretion;
• Strong planning and project management skills;
• Flexible in being able to respond to weekend and evening requests;
• Knowledge of French is an asset;
• Client-service driven.

The above is normally acquired through the completion of:
• University honours degree in communications, marketing, public relations, journalism or the equivalent.
• Five (5) years of progressive experience in the area of communications or public with demonstrable experience in planning and development of digital communications.
• Knowledge of French is an asset.

Carleton University and CUPE 2424 are currently completing a joint job evaluation and pay equity project. The University and the Union are working together to describe the skills, effort, responsibilities and working conditions associated with every CUPE 2424 job, including this one. As a result, the job description that is currently associated with this posting (for recruitment purposes) may be revised to reflect the actual duties captured in the new job descriptions.

By applying for this job you are acknowledging that the actual duties associated with this job may differ somewhat from those identified in the job posting and that you will agree to perform the duties of this job as determined through the joint job evaluation process.

Equivalencies will be considered. Applicants are encouraged to provide information which may demonstrate equivalent qualifications. Please note that applicants may be required to complete an employment test as part of the selection process for this position. Those applicants that are selected for an interview will be requested to contact the Human Resource Advisor assigned to this competition as soon as possible to discuss any accommodation requirements. Arrangements will be made to accommodate your request in a timely manner. Carleton University is strongly committed to fostering diversity within its community as a source of excellence, cultural enrichment, and social strength. We welcome those who would contribute to the further diversification of our University including, but not limited to: women; visible minorities; First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples; persons with disabilities; and persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expressions.

View complete position description

Please confirm that you have updated your candidate profile, if you are a returning applicant. Please note your profile includes important screening information.