Responsibilities

• In consultation with the Marketing and Publications Director for the College of Engineering (COE), the communications and editorial specialist is responsible for copywriting, editing, writing, and distributing written materials for internal and external communications.
• The individual Conceptualizes, writes and prepares scientific press releases, print and electronic advertisements, news releases and announcements, social media messages, as well as messages written on behalf to he dean or other UCSB administrators or faculty.
• This person is also responsible for determining the production schedule and outline contents of the colleges publications, whether it is Convergence magazine, brochures, or printed or emailed newsletters.
• The individual provides the above mentioned professional services for the college and its departments, programs, centers, institutes, faculty, staff, and researchers.
• Job Functions And Percentages Of Time - 50% Communications and Press Releases - Develops written communication for the College of Engineering (COE), which includes press releases, magazines, newsletters, website and other written collateral. Serve as primary copy editor for the department, reviewing and editing written and designed materials. Drives key messages throughout all College of Engineering (CoE) communications. Identifies areas of press interest and matches those with CoE's research, events, etc. Independently and in consultation with faculty and the Marketing and Publications Director, identifies hot topics for press releases and develops content of the release. Supports Marketing and Publications Director in story telling on research topics and provides content to promote research grant applications and successful awards. Works with UCSB Public Information Office (PIO) on articles and press meetings as requested. Develops and maintains excellent working relationships with PIO and keeps them informed of activities within the Engineering and Science Colleges.
• - 35% Editor, Newsletters and Magazines (printed or emailed) - In consultation with the Marketing and Publications Director, the Dean of Engineering, and the Dean of Math, Life and Physical Sciences, determines publication schedule and outline content objective in accordance with national standards for a scientific magazine. Writes articles using interviewing, reporting and research techniques including background preparation, to gather timely and informative material for news and features sections; researches backgrounds to have full familiarity with complex, often difficult to understand subjects in science and engineering to present them clearly, accurately, succinctly to lay audience, to produce general interest reading without omitting the scope and meaning of the research. Gathers material from writers skilled in interpreting university research and from faculty members, students and alumni. Works with contract writers to ensure they understand the magazines purpose, to set deadlines, and to evaluate writing content, style, tone, suitability and compatibility. Edits, and when necessary, rewrites assigned articles and columns making judgment as to syntax, style, grammar, clarity, organization and accuracy of contents to conform to Convergence's style, format and purpose. Conducts periodic reader surveys.
• - 10% Copy Writing, Web and Social Media Content - Responsible for writing web content, brochures and other marketing materials for the College of Engineering; Edits and produces newsletters, brochures and other collateral marketing pieces; Provides professional services in conceptualization, copy writing, design and production to other College and University departments and programs in the following areas: determining how to use written materials best to achieve program goals writing and editing copy for clarity, accuracy and stylistic consistency and effectiveness, efficient and attractive design; Produces social media material and coordinates with social media production.
• - 5% Other - * Perform other special tasks as assigned. * Supports the Marketing and Publications with marketing strategy. * Works with Marketing team members developing written content from department marketing representatives and other CoE department staff.

Requirements

• BS/BA in journalism, communication or marketing or related experience
• 4-6 years of experience in written communication or public relations functions.
• 1-3 years Prior experience and demonstrated ability of scientific writing for the lay audience.
• 1-3 years Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, FileMaker Pro and PowerPoint).

Preferred

• Excellent oral and written communication skills and successful work history in writing clearly for news organizations, education institutions, and/or in general marketing publications, web and social media outlets.
• Copywriting and editing expertise.
• Polished presentation and interpersonal skills required.
• Must be a creative problem solver, results oriented, and able to produce high-quality material is a short period of time.
• Must have an overall understanding of communication and marketing strategy and an ability to partner at all levels and collaborate with others across units, departments and colleges.
• Strong interpersonal skills and experience working with faculty and scientists, and as part of a team in which everyone brings their unique strength and talent to the table.
• Must have a passion and vision to produce powerful and exciting stories about engineering and the sciences.
• Experience scheduling, organizing, and producing large-scale printed materials, such as a magazine.

Benefits

• Benefits Eligibility: Full Benefits
• Benefits Of Belonging Working at UC means being part of this vibrant institution that shines a light on what is possible. People make UC great, and UC recognizes your contributions by making this a great place to work. Excellent retirement and health are just one of the rewards.