Internal Communications Writer Jobs

The Office of Strategic Communication is seeking an Internal Communications Writer to join their team. The individual in this position will envision, draft, and execute strategic communication and marketing for internal audiences at the University of Iowa. The person in this position will work in close collaboration with writers, editors, and communicators across campus and within the Office of Strategic Communication.
This position is eligible for a combination of on-campus and remote work after a 6 month training period. Work arrangement options will be discussed during the hiring process. Remote work must be performed at a location within the state of Iowa and comply with the remote work program and related policies.
Key Areas Of Responsibilities
Message Development and Implementation

• Develop communications strategies, plans, and messaging; provide communication support for institutionally important projects and initiatives.
• Identify content that advances the priorities of the university and its administrative units and proactively develop communication plans for approval by senior leadership.
• Curate Iowa Now email content for various internal audiences.
• Partner with staff and communicators in administrative units and colleges to identify, produce, and promote content that positively influences employee and student satisfaction and perception of the institution.
• Monitor news coverage, notify OSC leadership about threats or opportunities regarding the university's reputation or operation.

Public Relations

• Write email text tailored to the intended audience and select engaging and on-brand images. Build the the individual email products in Dispatch.
• Collaborate with other campus communicators on broader communication initiatives, for special events, and during crises.
• Work with administrative unit communicators to stay informed on current communications projects, needs, and issues. Research topics and issues as needed in order to effectively communicate about them.
• Develop relationships and build trust with campus stakeholders.

Information Management

• Identify, develop, write, edit, and disseminate communications related administrative unit(s), and other people, programs, and initiatives across campus. This may include, but is not limited to, creating communications plans and timelines, writing news stories and institutional announcements, email communications, videos, website content, talking points, internal reports, and social media posts. Repurpose content for different internal audiences and channels.
• Work as part of the OSC internal communications team, in close communication with internal communications specialists from other divisions and units, as well as the OSC team as needed.

Strategic Planning

• Envision, draft, and execute strategic communication and marketing plans.
• Educate the university community OSC's mission, build and protect the university's brand, and increase understanding and trust with internal audiences.
• Prepare regular analytics reports on internal communication efforts.
• Assist with and serve on appropriate communication advisory groups.

For a complete job description, please contact Libby Kleppe at [email protected]
Education Requirement

• Bachelor's degree in communication or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Required Qualifications

• Provide two writing samples highlighting the audience and goal of the piece.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with proven ability to write effectively under deadline for a variety of purposes, audiences, and media.
• 1-3 years of experience producing content in a variety of formats including print, web, social media, video, and advertising.
• 1-3 years of related professional experience in public relations, journalism, or marketing.

Desirable Qualifications

• Demonstrate organizational, time management, adaptability, and collaboration skills.
• 3-5 years of experience working in higher education or in an internal communications role.
• Demonstrate ability to think and plan across channels, develop effective communication strategies.

Application and Position Details

• Cover Letter
• Provide two writing samples highlighting the audience and goal of the piece
• Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days. This job may be removed from posting and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended. Successful candidates will be required to self-disclose any conviction history and will be subject to a criminal background check and credential/education verification. 5 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process. For additional questions, please contact Libby Kleppe at [email protected].
• Resume
• In order to be considered for an interview, applicants must upload the following documents and mark them as a "Relevant File" to the submission:

This position is eligible for a combination of on-campus and remote work after a 6 month training period. Work arrangement options will be discussed during the hiring process.
Benefits Highlights

• For more information about Why Iowa? Click here.
• Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans.
• Regular salaried position. Located in Iowa City, Iowa.

Additional Information

• Schedule: Full-time
• Work Modality Options: Hybrid within Iowa
• Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
• Classification Title: Communications Specialist

Compensation

• Pay Level: 4A

Contact Information

• Contact Name: Libby Kleppe
• Organization: Strategic Communications
• Contact Email: [email protected]

The University of Iowa is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), disability, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, service in the U.S. military, sexual orientation, gender identity, or associational preferences.