Job Summary:

The Assistant Director for Research Communications will direct the day-to-day news gathering and external media relations efforts to further the university's reputation as a research institution. The incumbent will develop news releases and media coverage pitches aligned with the Strategic Plan and the overall University communications marketing plan that reinforce the academic, research and philanthropic missions of the University. The Assistant Director of Communications for Research will work closely with the executive director of communications and media relations and vice president for research to ensure that the research priorities of the University are expressed through online content, external and earned media coverage, social media channels and other messaging platforms. This position also supports Institutional Advancement's crisis communications responsibilities.

Essential Duties:

Assist in developing, creating and implementing media relations strategies and tactics for assigned areas of the University that promote student and faculty excellence focused on the University's research mission. Work closely with the vice president for research to ensure that research priorities and collaborations are expressed through multiple internal and external communication channels, with the highest priority placed on national and international earned media placements. Develop and implement communications strategies that highlight and promote research achievements of faculty and students. Assist in planning, editing and pitching news releases and stories that highlight student and faculty excellence to international, national, state and regional media outlets and internal audiences. Assist in long-term media placement planning to align story pitches with prominent editorial calendars and predictable news coverage cycles, such as broadcast ratings periods, etc. Work collaboratively with other members of the University communications and marketing team and extended staff to ensure clear and consistent communications. Share strategies, pitch news and feature articles, produce content for the University's print and online publications as needed and promote content through social media channels. Cultivate mutually beneficial and trusting relationships with members of the local, regional, national and international media. Cultivate relationships with reporters, editors, producers, executive producers, etc. Aid in maintaining a well-rounded and saturated media presence locally and regionally, while placing particular emphasis on national media placements. Assist in compiling regular summaries and analytics of media coverage for internal distribution and archive external media stories for use in promoting the mission of the University. Fulfill critical crisis communications roles, including preparation, training and participation in actual events. Work a demanding scheduled during times of emergency or crisis. This position is designated as essential personnel under the university's crisis management plan. Coordinate closely with the University's schools, colleges and administrative units in order to set media priorities focused on research, develop media opportunities, identify and develop story ideas, cultivate faculty experts, ensure consistency of overall messaging and avoid duplication of effort and resources. Develop media strategies and communications opportunities focused on research that support Institutional Advancement and that enhance the University's philanthropic activities and programs. Manage web content for the Division of Research, with a focus on student and faculty excellence that supports the University's research mission. Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree required, preferably in journalism, communications, public relations, liberal arts, business, science or a related field. Three (3) years of relevant communications experience, supported by a portfolio of writing samples, as requested or the equivalent experience. Background in news reporting, journalism, public relations, public affairs or strategic communications. Exceptional oral and written communications talent and skill. Demonstrated positive, collegial and collaborative work style.

Preferred Qualifications:

Five plus (5+) years of experience in with a proven track record of success. Previous experience in higher education is preferred. Experience in science, engineering, health care or technology communications. Ability to translate comparative data into relevant charts and graphs. Foreign language skills are strongly considered. Experience with, or expertise in Spanish-language media, is strongly considered.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Competency in Microsoft Office programs. Multi-media skills, such as online publishing, social media, video, online photo presentation, etc. In-depth knowledge of communication strategies, tools, techniques, and technologies. Exceptional writing/editing skills – including development and editing along with ability to shape and improve content for multiple target audiences and repackage materials for multiple uses. Knowledge of news media practices. Experience in web content management.

Special Instructions:

­­Applicants must include in their online resume the following information: 1) Employment history: name of company, period employed (from month/year to month/year), job title, summary of job duties and 2) Education: school name, degree type, and major.

EEO Statement:

UTA is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action institution. Minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Additionally, the University prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of sexual orientation. A criminal background check will be conducted on finalists. The UTA is a tobacco free campus.

Open Until Filled: No

Location: Arlington