Description

Summary:

Position is responsible for developing an annual work plan for communication and/or public relation activities for an academic school, college, campus or a central administrative unit. This includes writing, editing and/or coordinating program schedules, news releases, newsletters, magazines, annual reports, proposals, speeches, brochures, still photography, world-wide web pages and other material or projects supporting the unit’s public relations, development and student recruitment goals. Positions function as media liaison for the unit in direct cooperation with the University’s central news, information staff or national television program guide agencies.

The Opportunity: 

Washington State University’s (WSU) Office of Research advances the university’s systemwide research enterprise. It facilitates every stage of research, from preaward support to compliance, development, and commercialization, and strengthens WSU’s landgrant mission by partnering with the university community, industry leaders, and other stakeholders. These collaborations help extend and amplify the positive impact of WSU research across the state, region, and nation. The Office of Research Communications Content Creator plays a central role in promoting this work and highlighting the impact of research conducted across the university.

 As the Communications Content Creator, you are responsible for developing, coordinating, and producing compelling research-related content for internal and external audiences. You will be working collaboratively with research units, faculty, and university communications staff. You will ensure strategic storytelling across platforms that align with the university’s land-grant mission and research strengths and priorities. This role requires strong editorial judgment, project management skills, and a deep understanding of digital and interactive content production, platforms, and systems.

In this position, you will serve as a key liaison between the Office of Research and the University Communications team and will work collaboratively with research centers, institutes, and colleges across WSU’s network to ensure consistent, engaging, and accessible communication and promotion of research initiatives, outcomes, and impacts.

 Job Functions:

55% - Content Development and Production

Coordinate and produce high-impact research focused digital campaigns, multimedia content, and focused news content for the web and social media.
Translate complex research findings into accessible, engaging narratives for broad audiences, including policymakers, media, funders, and the public.
Collaborate with faculty, researchers, and communicators to identify opportunities and develop content across web, social media, and video.
As a key brand ambassador, understand and integrate with WSU’s recently updated branding and messaging.
Attend relevant meetings at WSU’s Pullman campus, visit laboratories and other scientific facilities, and other in-person engagements as needed for content development. 

30% - Communications Strategy and Management 

Develop and maintain a content calendar aligned with university research priorities and strategic goals.
Curate and manage research-focused content for Office of Research web pages, newsletters, social media, and associated digital platforms.
Ensure brand and message consistency across platforms, adhering to university style and WCAG accessibility guidelines.
Plan, prepare, and produce monthly, seasonal, and annual communications. 

10% - Liaison and Collaboration

Serve as the primary point of contact for coordination with the WSU system Communications team and with college, campus, and university level communications coordinators including External Affairs and Government Relations and Corporate Engagement.
Facilitate regular information sharing between research leadership and central communications staff.
Support internal communication efforts to inform faculty, staff, and students about research opportunities, funding, and achievements. 

5% - Other Duties as Assigned 

Requirements

Required Qualifications:

A Bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications, marketing, journalism or other relevant field AND either three (3) years of professional experience in print or broadcast news media, public relations, marketing including the use of electronic media OR three (3) years of other relevant professional experience OR three (3+) years of experience in science- or research-related communication, marketing, design, media production, or a related role.
Demonstrated ability to write and edit clear, compelling content for a variety of audiences and platforms.
Proven experience managing content strategy, workflows, and editorial calendars.
Strong working knowledge of web content management systems (e.g., WordPress), social media platforms, and media scheduling tools.
Working knowledge of digital media production tools such as Adobe Express (if not the more powerful Adobe apps), Canva, or similar.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate across academic disciplines and administrative units. 

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in a higher education, research, or public-sector environment.
Ability to analyze engagement metrics and adapt content strategy accordingly.
Familiarity with land-grant university missions and research landscapes.