New River Community College
Communications, Website, and Graphic Design Specialist
New River Community College, Santa Cruz, California, us, 95061
Location:
Remote Job ID:
82403
JOB POSTING This position works remotely, requiring a telecommuting agreement and adherence to the UCSC Telecommuting/Remote Work Guidelines. The employee shall be available in a full-time capacity during assigned telecommuting work hours (specific hours to be discussed with supervisor). While telecommuting/remote working, the employee is responsible for ensuring a worksite environment suitable for accomplishing their regular job duties during scheduled hours of work and, if applicable, arranging for dependent care just as they would if they were working at the regular UCSC worksite.
NO VISA SPONSORSHIP IS AVAILABLE FOR THIS POSITION.
HOW TO APPLY For full consideration, applicants should attach their resume and cover letter when applying for a job opening. For guidance related to the application process or if you are experiencing difficulties when applying, please review the Applicant Resources on our website.
How to Apply Troubleshooting Tips for Applicants FAQ's
INITIAL REVIEW DATE (IRD) UC Santa Cruz jobs are posted until filled. All application materials submitted by 11:59 pm on the IRD will be routed to the hiring team for consideration. NOTE: Applicants who miss the IRD are still encouraged to apply; their materials will still be forwarded for consideration if requested by the hiring team. Application materials cannot be accepted outside of the jobs portal. Applications cannot be edited on an applicant's behalf. For more information about the IRD and the applicant review process, view this link.
The IRD for this job is: 11-24-2025
ABOUT UC SANTA CRUZ UC Santa Cruz is a public university like no other in California, combining the experience of a small, liberal arts college with the depth and rigor of a major research university. It's known as an unconventional place where innovation and experimentation is part of the campus's DNA. That playful, bold spirit still thrives today, all on a campus renowned as among the most beautiful in the world.
DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW The Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC) is a public agency supported by 12 states and territories. Through the work of thousands of educators, Smarter Balanced created an online assessment system aligned to the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), as well as tools for educators to improve teaching and learning.
UCSC Extension provides professional training that reflects the academic rigor of the University of California and the hands‑on, roll‑up‑your‑shoes practicality of Silicon Valley culture. More information can be found at https://smarterbalanced.org.
JOB SUMMARY The Communications Specialist serves as a collaborative member of the external affairs team in a remote context to support external communication projects and to facilitate business development and member‑related events, and correspondence. The incumbent utilizes a sound understanding of communications tools and platforms, website design, organizational skills, and attention to detail to manage and track multiple communication and marketing‑related tasks with limited supervision.
APPOINTMENT INFORMATION Budgeted Salary:
$88,830 – $95,250/year. Salary commensurate with skills, qualifications and experience.
Benefits Level Eligibility:
Full benefits.
Schedule Information:
Full‑time, Fixed Percentage of Time: 100%, 40 Hours per Week Days of the Week: Mon‑Fri Shift Includes: Day
Employee Classification:
Career appointment Job End Date:
None Work Location:
Remote Union Representation:
Non‑Represented Job Code Classification:
007477 (COMM SPEC 3) – Grade 22 Travel:
Up to 25% of the time
JOB DUTIES 30% – Communications and Design
Leverages communication and design best practices to create compelling collateral that meets the communications, marketing, business development, and member needs. Coordinates with Smarter Balanced staff to translate communication objectives and concepts into on‑brand designs that effectively convey the intended messaging for the target audience. Authors, designs, and delivers multi‑format digital communications, including emails, technical documents, and short‑ and long‑form assets to support key programs according to style, content, and design specifications.
25% – Multimedia Asset Development and Maintenance
Maintains and updates web‑based content (Smarter Balanced website, Social Media pages). Liaises with technical staff as necessary to make back‑end changes to web‑based materials that meet design, communications, and branding goals. Designs, develops, implements, and manages front‑end website changes to support ongoing development of the member portal, Smarter Balanced website, and Starting Smarter network sites. Ensures brand consistency and compliance with style guidelines across all web content. Optimizes content for usability, search engine optimization (SEO), and mobile responsiveness. Monitors web analytics and provides reports to inform content strategy. Designs small to medium websites and/or architectures and contributes to moderately complex to complex designs. Supports Content Management System development and design for websites designed in HubSpot and WordPress.
20% – Communications Implementation and Strategy
Supports the implementation of effective systems for managing information, projects, and communications to ensure accurate and timely responses. Identifies communication needs and develops content and processes for organizational improvements. Works with management and Consortium members to develop and implement long‑ and short‑term strategic communications plans and projects.
20% – Program Coordination and Administration
Coordinates and tracks information from other teams to ensure completion and sufficient time for leadership review in advance of project due dates.
5% – Special Projects
Performs specific projects or assignments.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor's degree in a related area and/or equivalent experience or training. Demonstrated experience utilizing email marketing platforms. Experience with common productivity tools (Adobe, Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, SharePoint, OneDrive) and video conferencing software. Experience in the design and development of websites built in WordPress and HubL. Experience using common graphic design tools (Canva, Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Dreamweaver) to produce branded materials. Experience monitoring and tracking activities of a project to complete the project on schedule and within budget constraints. Familiarity with content management systems, project management software, and other technical applications to effectively support staff and develop, produce, and deliver communication-related assets for various media. Experience ensuring that organizational practices, services, and behaviors support and promote collaboration among staff. Strong skill in writing effective, persuasive and professional communication messages. Strong verbal, interpersonal communications, active listening, and political acumen skills for reaching a wide variety of audiences. Skill in scheduling across teams and time zones, and with external partners. Basic copy‑editing and proofreading skills. Ability to streamline processes and workflows, tools, and resources.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Degree in Communication, Public Relations or Journalism. Basic knowledge of event coordination and planning. Experience ensuring that organizational practices, services, and behaviors support and promote collaboration among staff. Knowledge of marketing in the education space. Experience working with and supporting the policies and practices of value‑driven organizations. Knowledge of location protocols and channels for internal and external communication. Experience creating accessible print and web‑based materials. Experience planning and providing deliverables that meet the terms of a contract. Communications, Computer Systems and Technology, Office Management certification.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT Selected candidate must pass a pre‑employment criminal history background check. Must pass the employment misconduct disclosure process. Ability to work long periods of time at a computer with or without accommodation. Must be able to work from a home/remote office successfully and fulfill the requirements of the UCSC telecommuting agreement. Must be able to work a variable schedule including occasional evenings and weekends. Must be able to travel nationally. Must maintain appearance and conduct suitable for a professional setting. Must complete training within established time frames as directed, including UC compliance training. Must comply with UCSC Vaccination Policy, submitting proof of vaccination or approved exception within eight weeks of hire. Must exercise utmost discretion in managing sensitive information, safeguarding data, and following all organizational policies and laws on data protection and privacy.
MISCONDUCT DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENT As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose any misconduct or related administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years. The definition of “misconduct” includes violations of policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant’s previous place of employment, such as sexual harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct.
For reference, UC policies addressing misconduct include:
UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy UC Anti‑Discrimination Policy Abusive Conduct in the Workplace
SAFETY STATEMENT All UCSC employees must understand and follow job safety procedures, attend required health and safety training, proactively promote safety at work, and promptly report actual and potential accidents and injuries.
NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report (ASFSR) is available at https://compliance.ucsc.edu/campus-safety-compliance/annual-reports/.
EEO/AA The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected categories covered by the UC Anti-Discrimination Policy. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.
APPLICATION PROCESS View full job description and access online application: https://careerspub.universityofcalifornia.edu/psc/ucsc/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FL&JobOpeningId=82403&PostingSeq=1&SiteId=11&languageCd=ENG&FOCUS=Applicant. To apply, submit materials on or before the IRD via the Staff Employment Opportunities web site: https://jobs.ucsc.edu. For assistance, call 831‑459‑2009 or use the California Relay Service at 800‑735‑2922.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Remote Job ID:
82403
JOB POSTING This position works remotely, requiring a telecommuting agreement and adherence to the UCSC Telecommuting/Remote Work Guidelines. The employee shall be available in a full-time capacity during assigned telecommuting work hours (specific hours to be discussed with supervisor). While telecommuting/remote working, the employee is responsible for ensuring a worksite environment suitable for accomplishing their regular job duties during scheduled hours of work and, if applicable, arranging for dependent care just as they would if they were working at the regular UCSC worksite.
NO VISA SPONSORSHIP IS AVAILABLE FOR THIS POSITION.
HOW TO APPLY For full consideration, applicants should attach their resume and cover letter when applying for a job opening. For guidance related to the application process or if you are experiencing difficulties when applying, please review the Applicant Resources on our website.
How to Apply Troubleshooting Tips for Applicants FAQ's
INITIAL REVIEW DATE (IRD) UC Santa Cruz jobs are posted until filled. All application materials submitted by 11:59 pm on the IRD will be routed to the hiring team for consideration. NOTE: Applicants who miss the IRD are still encouraged to apply; their materials will still be forwarded for consideration if requested by the hiring team. Application materials cannot be accepted outside of the jobs portal. Applications cannot be edited on an applicant's behalf. For more information about the IRD and the applicant review process, view this link.
The IRD for this job is: 11-24-2025
ABOUT UC SANTA CRUZ UC Santa Cruz is a public university like no other in California, combining the experience of a small, liberal arts college with the depth and rigor of a major research university. It's known as an unconventional place where innovation and experimentation is part of the campus's DNA. That playful, bold spirit still thrives today, all on a campus renowned as among the most beautiful in the world.
DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW The Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium (SBAC) is a public agency supported by 12 states and territories. Through the work of thousands of educators, Smarter Balanced created an online assessment system aligned to the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), as well as tools for educators to improve teaching and learning.
UCSC Extension provides professional training that reflects the academic rigor of the University of California and the hands‑on, roll‑up‑your‑shoes practicality of Silicon Valley culture. More information can be found at https://smarterbalanced.org.
JOB SUMMARY The Communications Specialist serves as a collaborative member of the external affairs team in a remote context to support external communication projects and to facilitate business development and member‑related events, and correspondence. The incumbent utilizes a sound understanding of communications tools and platforms, website design, organizational skills, and attention to detail to manage and track multiple communication and marketing‑related tasks with limited supervision.
APPOINTMENT INFORMATION Budgeted Salary:
$88,830 – $95,250/year. Salary commensurate with skills, qualifications and experience.
Benefits Level Eligibility:
Full benefits.
Schedule Information:
Full‑time, Fixed Percentage of Time: 100%, 40 Hours per Week Days of the Week: Mon‑Fri Shift Includes: Day
Employee Classification:
Career appointment Job End Date:
None Work Location:
Remote Union Representation:
Non‑Represented Job Code Classification:
007477 (COMM SPEC 3) – Grade 22 Travel:
Up to 25% of the time
JOB DUTIES 30% – Communications and Design
Leverages communication and design best practices to create compelling collateral that meets the communications, marketing, business development, and member needs. Coordinates with Smarter Balanced staff to translate communication objectives and concepts into on‑brand designs that effectively convey the intended messaging for the target audience. Authors, designs, and delivers multi‑format digital communications, including emails, technical documents, and short‑ and long‑form assets to support key programs according to style, content, and design specifications.
25% – Multimedia Asset Development and Maintenance
Maintains and updates web‑based content (Smarter Balanced website, Social Media pages). Liaises with technical staff as necessary to make back‑end changes to web‑based materials that meet design, communications, and branding goals. Designs, develops, implements, and manages front‑end website changes to support ongoing development of the member portal, Smarter Balanced website, and Starting Smarter network sites. Ensures brand consistency and compliance with style guidelines across all web content. Optimizes content for usability, search engine optimization (SEO), and mobile responsiveness. Monitors web analytics and provides reports to inform content strategy. Designs small to medium websites and/or architectures and contributes to moderately complex to complex designs. Supports Content Management System development and design for websites designed in HubSpot and WordPress.
20% – Communications Implementation and Strategy
Supports the implementation of effective systems for managing information, projects, and communications to ensure accurate and timely responses. Identifies communication needs and develops content and processes for organizational improvements. Works with management and Consortium members to develop and implement long‑ and short‑term strategic communications plans and projects.
20% – Program Coordination and Administration
Coordinates and tracks information from other teams to ensure completion and sufficient time for leadership review in advance of project due dates.
5% – Special Projects
Performs specific projects or assignments.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor's degree in a related area and/or equivalent experience or training. Demonstrated experience utilizing email marketing platforms. Experience with common productivity tools (Adobe, Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, SharePoint, OneDrive) and video conferencing software. Experience in the design and development of websites built in WordPress and HubL. Experience using common graphic design tools (Canva, Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, Dreamweaver) to produce branded materials. Experience monitoring and tracking activities of a project to complete the project on schedule and within budget constraints. Familiarity with content management systems, project management software, and other technical applications to effectively support staff and develop, produce, and deliver communication-related assets for various media. Experience ensuring that organizational practices, services, and behaviors support and promote collaboration among staff. Strong skill in writing effective, persuasive and professional communication messages. Strong verbal, interpersonal communications, active listening, and political acumen skills for reaching a wide variety of audiences. Skill in scheduling across teams and time zones, and with external partners. Basic copy‑editing and proofreading skills. Ability to streamline processes and workflows, tools, and resources.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Degree in Communication, Public Relations or Journalism. Basic knowledge of event coordination and planning. Experience ensuring that organizational practices, services, and behaviors support and promote collaboration among staff. Knowledge of marketing in the education space. Experience working with and supporting the policies and practices of value‑driven organizations. Knowledge of location protocols and channels for internal and external communication. Experience creating accessible print and web‑based materials. Experience planning and providing deliverables that meet the terms of a contract. Communications, Computer Systems and Technology, Office Management certification.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT Selected candidate must pass a pre‑employment criminal history background check. Must pass the employment misconduct disclosure process. Ability to work long periods of time at a computer with or without accommodation. Must be able to work from a home/remote office successfully and fulfill the requirements of the UCSC telecommuting agreement. Must be able to work a variable schedule including occasional evenings and weekends. Must be able to travel nationally. Must maintain appearance and conduct suitable for a professional setting. Must complete training within established time frames as directed, including UC compliance training. Must comply with UCSC Vaccination Policy, submitting proof of vaccination or approved exception within eight weeks of hire. Must exercise utmost discretion in managing sensitive information, safeguarding data, and following all organizational policies and laws on data protection and privacy.
MISCONDUCT DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENT As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose any misconduct or related administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years. The definition of “misconduct” includes violations of policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant’s previous place of employment, such as sexual harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct.
For reference, UC policies addressing misconduct include:
UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy UC Anti‑Discrimination Policy Abusive Conduct in the Workplace
SAFETY STATEMENT All UCSC employees must understand and follow job safety procedures, attend required health and safety training, proactively promote safety at work, and promptly report actual and potential accidents and injuries.
NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report (ASFSR) is available at https://compliance.ucsc.edu/campus-safety-compliance/annual-reports/.
EEO/AA The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected categories covered by the UC Anti-Discrimination Policy. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.
APPLICATION PROCESS View full job description and access online application: https://careerspub.universityofcalifornia.edu/psc/ucsc/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FL&JobOpeningId=82403&PostingSeq=1&SiteId=11&languageCd=ENG&FOCUS=Applicant. To apply, submit materials on or before the IRD via the Staff Employment Opportunities web site: https://jobs.ucsc.edu. For assistance, call 831‑459‑2009 or use the California Relay Service at 800‑735‑2922.
#J-18808-Ljbffr