Job Summary 
     The Marketing and Communications Specialist contributes to the development of content for a variety of communication platforms across the University, including marketing materials, news releases, podcasts, videos, special publications, internal messaging, faculty/staff newsletters, the University's website, and social media channels, as assigned. 

A key focus of this position is advancing student success and retention initiatives through strategic storytelling and communications support. The Marketing and Communications Specialist serves as the primary Office of University Marketing and Communications contact and partnership manager for assigned Student Life and Enrollment Management units, providing customer service, project management and coordination, and content marketing strategy for these campus partners. This individual will help tell the compelling stories of current ETSU students, showcasing their achievements, experiences, and journeys, while also providing communications and marketing support for key on-campus events that enhance student engagement and community building. This position is specifically intended to support ETSU's student life, enrollment, and student success initiatives.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 

• Strong writing and editing skills with the ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate with various audiences, including prospective students, current students, families, and campus stakeholders. 
• Proven ability to manage multiple tasks, triage incoming requests, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment. 
• Ability to adhere strictly to established institutional brand guidelines, voice, tone, and editorial standards for consistent messaging. 
• Ability to learn and adapt to new technologies, content strategies, and digital marketing trends. 
• Knowledge of marketing principles and best practices for higher education, particularly as they relate to student recruitment, retention, and engagement. 
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build and maintain collaborative relationships across campus departments. 
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating initiative and self-direction. 
• Knowledge of AP style and best practices for copywriting and editing. 

Required Qualifications 

• Bachelor's degree in marketing, public relations, advertising, or a related field and a minimum of three years of related professional experience (higher education experience preferred)
• Experience with digital marketing strategies, content creation best practices, and various social media platforms

OR

• A combination of education and work experience

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience in a higher education environment 

• Knowledge of digital marketing and social media best practices 

Compensation and Benefits

• Job Family - Communications and Marketing Professional 2
• Salary - MR7 (Salary Schedules)
• For information on benefits, please visit Employee Benefits

Application instructions

• Exempt positions must be posted for a minimum of fourteen (14) calendar days.  The closing date for this position is subject to change without notice to the applicants.
• Documents needed to apply: Cover letter and resume, letters of recommendation (available upon request)
• Please contact the Office of Marketing and Communications for any additional information, University Marketing & Communications 

University Overview

• East Tennessee State University (ETSU) is an institution with over 14,000 diverse students and highly ranked graduate and undergraduate programs. Located in the Southern Appalachian Mountains of Northeast Tennessee, ETSU serves as a hub for community, discovery, and service. Aligned with the institution's mission, we value efforts to engage in teaching, scholarship, creative activities, and service that involve community partners and address significant societal needs in our region and beyond. Recognized in 2024 as a Great College to Work For, the institution's recent strategic initiatives prioritize community engagement.

• Disclaimer: The Job Summary is intended to describe the general nature and level of work individuals perform in this classification. It is not intended to be a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Management reserves the right to revise the job or assign different tasks to reflect changes in the position. Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily, with or without reasonable accommodations.