Communications Associate/Writer Job at Concordia University, Chicago in River Fo

Concordia University Chicago (CUC) invites applications for the position of Communications Associate/Writer.

This position reports directly to the Assistant Vice President of University Communications and is located in River Forest, IL.

Responsibilities/Duties:

The Communications Associate/Writer independently coordinates internal and external written communication initiatives. This position acts as the primary department copywriter for digital and print media content and communications, completing projects in conjunction with communications department staff, various University units, and others. Responsibilities and duties include, but are not limited to:

• Writing content for various projects including: social media, press releases, articles, print and radio ads, posters, flyers, brochures, academic profiles, audience stories, and website copy for internal and external audiences.
• Providing editorial consultation and services at all levels of the University's organizational structure, as assigned.
• Ensuring communications materials are accurate, current and compelling in accordance with University identity, branding, and editorial standards, maintaining consistency.
• Identifying, developing, and incorporating key University messages while working creatively with clients and team members.
• Meeting multiple deadlines and ensuring outcomes that result in client satisfaction, high-impact and error-free communication of the highest quality.
• Serving as primary contributing writer to University magazine, conducting research and interviews as needed.
• Conducting research for special projects through interviews, data collection, competitive observation and manual processing as needed.
• Representing the Communications team at University meetings and functions as needed.
• Candidates must support and be committed to the mission and identity of Concordia University Chicago, a university of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod (LCMS).

Skill Sets:

• Superior written and verbal communication skills including copywriting and editing.
• Strong interviewing skills.
• Understanding of academic writing standards and honesty, demonstrating the highest level of integrity in all communications.
• Knowledge of commonly accepted style guides - Associated Press and Chicago Manual of Style and ability to effectively use generally accepted proofreading practices, procedures and markings.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and assignments with excellent organization, planning and attention to detail while meeting deadlines.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with minimum supervision as well as in a collaborative, team environment.
• Exhibits a service mentality toward all stakeholders.
• All communication with stakeholders is effective, professional, accurate, and timely.
• Improves work performance and that of others by being receptive to and appropriately sharing information.

Minimum Experience Required: Minimum 2-5 years' writing experience for a variety of digital and print mediums. Strong familiarity and skill with Microsoft Office suite required. Experience in higher education with knowledge of the market preferred.

Education Requirements: Bachelor's degree in English, communications, journalism or related field.

Compensation and Benefits:

Starting range is dependent upon individual qualifications and experience. Concordia University Chicago benefit options include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and/or Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Disability and Survivor Plan (Basic Life Insurance)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Retirement Pension Plan
• Retirement 403(b) Savings Plan
• Supplemental Life Insurance
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance
• Accident Insurance
• Critical Illness Insurance
• Tuition benefits (available for employees and their qualified dependents)

Application Information:

Interested individuals should include a cover letter, resume and references with their online application.

Concordia does not discriminate in the employment of individuals on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, disability, sex or age. As an institution of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, however, and to the extent allowed by law, Concordia University reserves the right to give preference in employment based upon religious affiliation.

Concordia University Chicago does not generally sponsor for employment visas except for positions that oversee, teach or support our international programs.

About Concordia University Chicago:

Concordia University Chicago is a liberal arts-based Christian university founded in the Lutheran tradition. Through its College of Theology, Arts & Humanities, College of Business, College of Education, and College of Health, Science & Technology, Concordia-Chicago offers more than 160 areas of study in small classes taught by professors who are passionate about teaching and student success. All undergraduate and graduate degrees are fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Concordia University Chicago has been recognized as a College of Distinction since 2010, and is consistently ranked among the Best Regional Universities-Midwest by U.S. News & World Report. For more than a decade, combined undergraduate and graduate enrollment has exceeded 5,000 students. Concordia University Chicago is located in River Forest, 10 miles west of downtown Chicago. Learn more about our commitment to higher education, rooted in the Gospel, at CUChicago.edu.

Steadfast in Jesus Christ as revealed in the Holy Scriptures, Concordia University Chicago promotes academic rigor in its liberal arts and professional programs; grounds students in objective truth, integrity, and excellence; and practices faithfulness to the Confessional teachings of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod, as it forms students for vocations in church, family, and the world.