Communications Specialist I - 528799 at The University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa, AL | $44K/yr – $55K/yr

The University of Alabama

Communications Specialist I - 528799

Tuscaloosa, AL (On-site)

$44K/yr – $55K/yrIntern/New GradFull time

Posted 4 months ago

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Job Summary

Drive science storytelling and strategic communications for CIROH, from planning to audience-focused content.

Must-have: Bachelor’s degree with some journalism/public relations/communications experience and strong writing.
Standout: Ability to translate complex research into accessible narratives for diverse stakeholders.

Job Description

Responsibilities

The Communications Specialist I writes and edits communications for a department, college, and/or division under general supervision.
Develops and implements plans, activities, and tactics to support the goals of assigned areas.
Coordinates the production of materials and resources through a variety of platforms, including digital and physical mediums.
Advances CIROH’s mission to improve water prediction and decision support nationwide by expanding the institute’s communication and research dissemination capacity.
Supports strategic communication priorities across research, education, and engagement initiatives, including development of scientific communication materials, proposal-related support, consortium collaboration, and media and outreach coordination.
Works closely with CIROH leadership, the Science Team, researchers across the consortium, and external partners to translate technical work into accessible, compelling narratives for stakeholders ranging from scientific audiences to general public and decision-makers.
Contributes to communication-focused workshops and training programs, strengthening CIROH’s national workforce development and education efforts.
Ensures CIROH research and programs are visible, impactful, and aligned with federal and national water prediction priorities through content development, research support, and communication skill-building activities.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree and some journalism, public relations, marketing, or communications experience.
Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills for scientific and general audiences.
Ability to translate complex research into accessible, compelling narratives.
Familiarity with scientific communication practices, research environments, and proposal development processes.
Basic multimedia and graphic support skills (e.g., Canva, Adobe, or similar tools).
Strong organizational, project management, and coordination skills.
Ability to work collaboratively with researchers, leadership, and multi-institution partners.

Preferred

Knowledge of hydrology, climate science, or Earth sciences.
Experience developing content for web, email, and social media platforms.
Experience in science communication, journalism, public relations, or related fields.
Experience supporting academic or federal research projects, including proposal development, reporting, and technical content dissemination.
Experience delivering communication workshops or training programs.
Familiarity with hydrology, climate science, or related technical subjects.
Experience creating digital content for web, social media, newsletters, and multimedia.
Proficiency with content management systems, email marketing tools, and basic graphic/multimedia software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Canva)

The University of Alabama

The University of Alabama is a student-centered research university and an academic community committed to enhancing the quality of life for all through breakthrough research. Founded in 1831 as Alabama's first public college, The University of Alabama is dedicated to excellence in teaching, research and service. Our campus is a creative environment where students and scholars are equipped to become their best. Taught by leading faculty in their fields, our students make a positive impact in the community, the state and the world. UA’s history of success sets an expectation of greatness for the future. That is an expectation we will deliver. The University of Alabama is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, genetic or family medical history information, disability, protected veteran status, or any other legally protected basis, and will not be discriminated against because of their protected status. Applicants to and employees of this institution are protected under Federal law from discrimination on several bases.

Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA

13K employees (632 in marketing)

ua.edu