Responsibilities

• Editorial Strategy & Leadership: Develop and manage a system-wide editorial strategy aligned with ACES priorities; Maintain a unified content calendar across all program areas; Prioritize high-impact stories across Agriculture, Forestry & Natural Resources, 4-H, Human Sciences, and community programs; Serve as final editorial authority on major system communications
• Integrated Content Production Oversight: Lead cross-functional content planning across: News writing and releases; Video production and storytelling; Coordinate social media content strategy with the Digital Marketing team; Web feature development; Assign content formats based on audience and channel strategy; Ensure consistent messaging and branding across all outputs
• Digital & Platform Strategy: Oversee content performance across aces.edu, social platforms; Lead SEO-driven content strategy for evergreen Extension resources; Ensure web content functions as the primary “source of truth” and a hub for Extension information
• Earned Media & Public Visibility Strategy: Guide statewide media relations strategy and story pitching; Serve as senior editorial contact for major media inquiries and high-profile stories; Strengthen relationships with state, regional, and local media outlets; Ensure Extension expertise is consistently represented in external news coverage
• Content Network Leadership (County + Faculty System): Build and manage a statewide content contributor network; Supervise the Digital Marketing team member(s) responsible for social media content supporting Agriculture, Forestry, & Natural Resources (AFNR) program teams.; Train county and program staff in storytelling and content submission standards; Establish submission workflows and editorial guidelines for decentralized content; Work with County Extension Directors to maximize reach within counties.
• Measurement & Performance: Track and report on content performance metrics including: Audience reach and engagement; Content reuse and repurposing efficiency; Media pickups; Geographic dispersion across Alabama counties; Use insights to refine editorial strategy and content priorities

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in in Journalism, Communications, Marketing, or related field.
• 3 years of experience in journalism, strategic communications, digital media, or integrated marketing
• Substitutions Allowed for Experience: When a candidate has the required education, but lacks the required experience, they may normally apply additional appropriate education toward the experience requirement, at a rate of one (1) year relevant education per year of required experience.

Nice to Have

• Experience working in public-sector, higher education, or mission-driven organizations preferred
• Advanced degree preferred in communications, journalism, public relations, or related field
• Substitutions Allowed for Experience: When a candidate has the required education, but lacks the required experience, they may normally apply additional appropriate education toward the experience requirement, at a rate of one (1) year relevant education per year of required experience.

Benefits

• Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
• Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
• We’re Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
• Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
• A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.
• Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!