Alabama A&M University is hiring: Communication Specialist in Huntsville

Salary: $53,325.00 - $71,100.00 Annually
Location : Normal
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202300619
Department: V.P. Marketing, Communication & Advancement
Opening Date: 06/11/2025

Description

Summary:
The Alabama A&M University (AAMU) Communications Specialist is responsible for assisting with the development and implementation of communication strategies to support the AAMU mission and promote visibility by working cross-functionally with internal and external stakeholders to support key initiatives. The role requires extensive organizational skills, strong writing skills, attention to detail, creativity and a strong interest and understanding in communications for institutional success.
Examples of Duties

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Draft and distribute press releases, feature stories, op-ed pieces, resolutions, proclamations, executive communications and other writings as directed
• Monitors AAMU media coverage and pitches stories for coverage in trade publications, magazines, radio and online media.

• Responds to communications inquiries and requests with an understanding of policies and procedures
• Manages relationships with stakeholders, coordinate cross-departmental deliverables as needed for relevant initiatives, events, and activities.
• Prepares communications timelines and shares progress towards relevant deadlines.
• Regularly monitors relevant social media and news sites, researches relevant subject matter to increase knowledge in areas of specialty.
• Utilizes various communications software programs and delivers communications in multiple formats to a variety of audiences.
• Monitors industry trends and best practices for departmental and organizational opportunities.
• Collaborates to create messaging that supports the AAMU brand for publications, newsletters, marketing materials, website content, etc.
• Communicates with Colleges and Departments to stay up to date on new initiatives to report in presentations and stakeholder updates.
• Manage and promote campus industry experts with preparation for speaking engagements and other public relations activities.
• Source writing and speaking opportunities to elevate the AAMU brand.
• Draft external communication materials including but not limited to media alerts, FAQs, AAMU fact sheets and other relevant needed promotional collateral.
• Manage scheduling and calendars for media activities.
• Collaborate with Communications Specialist for cross platform coverage.
• Performs other related duties as needed.

Typical Qualifications

Minimum Position Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree in Communications, Public Relations, English and/or similar field of study or equivalent combination of skills and experience

• 6 to 7+ years' experience in strategic communications and public relations in higher education

Supplemental Information

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Successful track record of executing communications strategies with clear goals and objectives that align with organizational and institutional priorities
• Strong familiarity with higher education publications.
• Outstanding stakeholder management and communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal communication, teamwork and project management skills
• Exceptional verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills
• Strong writing skills, demonstrating the ability to communicate information to multiple audiences.
• Established skills in strategic and critical thinking, decision-making, negotiation, and relationship-building.
• Ability to quickly grasp and synthesize complex issues.
• Strong project management skills.
• Highly organized, detail oriented and possess a proven ability to thrive under deadline pressure.

We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, short and long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.

To learn more details, visit our benefits page at
01

Do you have a bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, english and/or similar field of study or equivalent combination of skills and experience?

• Yes
• No

02

Do you have 6 to 7+ years' experience in strategic communications and public relations in higher education?

• Yes
• No

Required Question