East Carolina University is hiring: Public Communications Specialist III in Gree

Public Communications Specialist III Position Number: 500624 Full Time or Part Time: Full Time Anticipated Recruitment Range: $54,249 - $71,960 Position Type: Non-Faculty Job Category: Non-Faculty Professional Organizational Unit Overview University Communication (UC) translates ECU’s message into strategic and compelling communication and campaigns through the university website, news releases, official social media, East magazine, storytelling, production of promotional videos and video news stories along with infographics, creation and development of promotional brochures, and annual reports. The purpose is to provide strategic communication and marketing guidance and support to increase the knowledge, understanding, appreciation and support of the University and its work with broad and varied constituencies, from prospective students to identified thought leaders to prospective donors. Through ECU News Services UC performs media relations, public affairs, internal communication and strategic communication work on behalf of the university and reports and disseminates information about events, activities, research, policies, individuals and alumni of the University, both through the media, videos, ecu.edu, the university website and through owned publications and other forums. UC, through Creative Services, works with all university departments to conceptualize, design, develop, and produce written, audio‑visual, digital and print projects to brand, communicate, and market their messages to appropriate audiences. Creative Services also provides strategic marketing advice for the university, including performing advertising buys for the university. Job Duties The Office of Research, Economic Development, and Engagement (REDE) Public Communications Specialist is a highly motivated and talented individual that creates, implements, and measures the success of a comprehensive communications, marketing, and public relations program that enhances the image, position, and connections of research, innovation, and engagement activities within ECU, the community, and the region. This position reports directly to the Director of Communications for Academic Affairs and Research and is responsible for communications strategy, REDE’s website, social media channels, and electronic newsletters; internal and external marketing materials; and research stories and fact sheets. The communications specialist is responsible for all media relations ensuring accurate and positive impression of the division and its services. 40% COMMUNICATION: Creates, implements, and measures the success of a comprehensive communications, marketing, and public relations program that enhances the local, regional, and national image and position of ECU in the primary areas of responsibility: research, economic development, innovation, and engagement activities. Develops and implements REDE marketing, communications, public relations activities, and materials; responsible for editorial direction, design, production, and distribution of REDE publications. Ensures consistent communication of image and position throughout REDE, ECU, the community, and the region. Identifies and covers events, issues, and accomplishments; serves as spokesperson for REDE and manages positive impression of division activities. Oversees all internal and external communications; writes press releases and news tips, coordinates interview schedules, and prepares/coaches staff/faculty for media interactions. Establishes and maintains cooperative relationships with ECU representatives and the community. Serves as media relations resource and sounding board. Coordinates media interest in research, economic development, and engagement activities; ensures regular contact with target media; responds appropriately to media requests. Coordinates the appearance of divisional print and electronic materials such as letterhead, logo usage, and marketing materials. Ensures regular market research and trend monitoring. Produces professional and flawless written communications. 20% KNOWLEDGE - TECHNICAL: Serves as a key resource to the University’s Chief Innovation and Engagement Officer and Chief Research Officer and others within REDE on a wide variety of communication and marketing concepts. Independently establishes standards for communication and marketing in REDE to accomplish objectives and goals. Employs creative and innovative use of equipment, techniques, and communication methods. Possesses in-depth knowledge of current technology/software such as web content managers including WordPress, Adobe products, and social media networks including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Works independently to execute the development, distribution, and maintenance of REDE’s website, social media channels, internal marketing materials, external research and economic development marketing materials, electronic newsletters, and research stories and fact sheets. Serves as liaison between REDE and Creative Services for evaluation and development of visual content. 10% KNOWLEDGE - PROFESSIONAL: Possesses extensive knowledge of planning, writing, editing, and producing content. Trains and mentors others in techniques for preparing and disseminating information to the division, ECU, the community, and the region. Maintains professional and technical knowledge in marketing, communications, and public relations through workshops, professional publications, networks, and organizations. Uses this information to help REDE operate with initiative and innovation. 10% CONSULTING/ADVISING: Crafts effective communications and conveys desired messages with sensitivity and urgency. Identifies challenges and emerging issues faced by the division. Works with administrators and staff within REDE to recognize internal and external communication opportunities and works diligently to create and implement effective solutions. Executes appropriate strategies and techniques to effectively deliver messages. 10% PROJECT MANAGEMENT: Responsible for communication and marketing efforts in the division. Plans and directs development and communication of information to promote REDE to ECU, the community, and the region. Independently manages project timelines and resources. Uses a strategic approach to manage complex projects. Develops short and long‑term plans for communication/marketing strategies and activities. Leads implementation efforts in all communications areas. Develops, implements, and monitors systems and procedures necessary to the operation of the communication and marketing function within the division. 10% ORGANIZATIONAL SENSITIVITY: Works directly with University Communications and the Chief Innovation and Engagement Officer and Chief Research Officer to develop and maintain the mission, objectives, and goals of REDE. Ensures overall health and vitality of the division through appropriate communication and marketing techniques. Makes sure REDE’s mission, objectives, and goals are consistent and practiced. Directs, develops, and implements strategies that promote these goals throughout the division, ECU, the community, and the region. Seeks regular input from the division, ECU, the community, and the region regarding the quality of REDE’s communication and marketing efforts. Intervenes and readjusts communication and marketing efforts that are proven ineffective. Contingent Upon Availability of Funds. Minimum Education/Experience Bachelor’s degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions. License or Certification Required by Statute or Regulation None Preferred Experience, Skills, Training/Education None Special Instructions to Applicant East Carolina University requires applicants to submit a candidate profile online in order to be considered for the position. Candidates must also submit a cover letter, resume, and a list of three references, including contact information, online. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full‑time basis. Additional Instructions to Applicant In order to be considered for this position, applicants must complete a candidate profile online via the PeopleAdmin system and submit any requested documents. Additionally, applicants that possess the preferred education and experience must also possess the minimum education/experience, if applicable. Job Close Date 1/16/2026 Open Until Filled No Initial Screening Begins 01/06/2026 Application To apply, visit https://ecu.peopleadmin.com/postings/90807 #J-18808-Ljbffr