Virginia Tech is a public land-grant university, committed to teaching and learning, research, and outreach to the Commonwealth of Virginia, the nation, and the world. Building on its motto of Ut Prosim (that I may serve), Virginia Tech is dedicated to InclusiveVT-serving in the spirit of community, diversity, and excellence. We seek candidates who adopt and practice the Principles of Community, which are fundamental to our on-going efforts to increase access and inclusion, and to create a community that nurtures learning and growth for all of its members. Virginia Tech actively seeks a broad spectrum of candidates to join our community in preparing leaders for the world.

Position Summary:
The Communications Specialist serves as writer/editor and communications strategist, reporting to the Director of Communications for Outreach and International Affairs ( OIA ). In this position, s/he will assist in planning, writing, editing, and disseminating episodes of the video program Save Our Towns; make media pitches and write news releases; and edit the news releases of others covering OIA units to provide greater visibility for their work. In editing as well as serving on the communications committee, s/he will provide expertise to other communicators within OIA .
This position will take the lead in generating stories, messaging and communications strategies relating to the Center for Organizational and Technological Advancement ( COTA ) in Roanoke, and also identify communications needs from other Outreach and International Affairs departments, institutes, centers and units, giving particular attention to those that are identified as high priorities in the vice president's communications plan. S/he will create, develop and manage communications related to messaging and branding by generating story ideas, creating video, and entering content into the University Relations content management system ( CMS ).
Other tasks may include developing PowerPoint presentations; taking photographs; creating layouts using elements of the Virginia Tech brand; and developing proficiency in video and graphics work (utilizing Adobe Creative Suite) and website work on additional platforms such as WordPress.
Major emphasis will be on generating story ideas, writing news releases, creating video, and entering content into the University Relations content management system ( CMS ). Other tasks include taking responsibility for news and information on the OIA homepage and news page to include managing issues of accessibility; providing technological assistance as needed, troubleshooting video and photographic hardware and software; and serving as a consultant regarding content on other OIA webpages.
S/he may also plan and write for print publications. This person will work collaboratively with other communicators within OIA as well as with University Relations and communicators throughout the university. This person will represent the director as appropriate at meetings and events.

Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent level of training/experience in communications, public relations, journalism or related field
- Previous work experience in communications, public relations,journalism, or related field
- Experience creating, writing and editing a variety of materials such as newsletters, press releases, presentations; brochures,
briefs and reports
- Demonstrated experience with software such as Adobe Creative Cloud
- Excellent organizational, communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to plan and organize and work independently and deliver products on schedule
- Ability to work in a fast-paced office with frequent short-notice deadlines
- Ability to work with people from different backgrounds

Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working with and/or writing for news media and editors
- Experience communicating complex subject matter to nontechnical audiences
- Experience in graphic design and/or video editing
- Knowledge of the university's style guide and/or AP style
- Knowledge of university policies and procedures



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