Communications Specialist, Hildebrand Department of Petroleum and Geosystems Eng
The University of Texas at Austin, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
Communications Specialist
Hiring Department: Cockrell School of Engineering
Location: UT Main Campus, Austin, Texas
Position Type: Exempt
Weekly Scheduled Hours: 40
Earliest Start Date: Immediately
Position Duration: Expected to Continue
Purpose
The Communications Specialist supports the mission of the Hildebrand Department of Petroleum and Geosystems Engineering by translating complex technical work into clear, engaging stories and materials that resonate with various audiences including prospective students, alumni, industry partners, donors, and peer institutions. As energy systems evolve to address global challenges related to sustainability, security, and affordability, PGE is positioned at the forefront of innovation in subsurface engineering. Therefore, the Communications Specialist should have an interest in science and technology topics and an inquisitive mindset and a highly collaborative work style. The role is that of an individual contributor that occasionally manages vendors and freelancers (or students).
Responsibilities
Develop, coordinate, and implement a cohesive communications strategy aligned with departmental priorities and leadership direction.
Anticipate communication needs related to academic programs, research initiatives, faculty and student achievements, alumni engagement, and departmental milestones.
Regularly assess communication channels and tools to ensure effectiveness and relevance.
Create and oversee high-quality written and visual communications that highlight PGE’s research, educational programs, faculty expertise, student experience, and alumni impact.
Produce content such as feature stories, newsletters, reports, presentations, digital communications, and marketing materials that reflect the department’s brand and values.
Translate complex research and technical topics into accessible narratives for broad audiences.
Guide the development and upkeep of the department’s digital presence, including online content, digital signage, and social platforms, ensuring consistency with university branding and messaging standards. Identify opportunities to enhance visibility and engagement through thoughtful use of digital and visual media.
Support and strengthen the PGE brand by ensuring consistent messaging and visual identity across communications.
Serve as a departmental point of contact for media‑related requests, working in coordination with Cockrell School and University communications teams to support appropriate coverage of faculty research, awards, and initiatives.
Manage multiple communications projects simultaneously, coordinating with faculty, staff, students, vendors, and campus partners as needed.
Provide communications support for departmental initiatives and programs, ensuring materials are accurate, timely, and professionally executed.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, or a related field.
Five years of professional experience in public relations, communications, or writing and editing publications.
Minimum two years of experience managing professional social media accounts, including LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Instagram, and Facebook.
Expert knowledge of English grammar, spelling, capitalization, and punctuation, with the ability to write concise, error‑free prose.
Strong writing, interviewing, and editing skills, including proficiency in AP Style and the ability to convey complex technical material clearly to various audiences.
Expert‑level proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook; proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
Proficiency in Wordpress (or a related content management system).
Experience with template‑based graphic design and visual communications for print and digital media.
Demonstrated experience developing and executing communications for a variety of audiences.
Experience managing multiple projects and deadlines, with the ability to prioritize effectively.
Ability to work collaboratively and independently with minimal supervision, demonstrating professionalism and attention to detail.
Interest in science, technology and related fields.
Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s degree in Communications, Journalism, or a related field.
More than seven years of professional experience in communications, marketing, or related roles.
Experience supporting communications in an academic, research, or technical environment.
Experience with media relations and strategic storytelling.
Ability to tailor writing to different audiences and situations.
Photography or video experience is a plus.
Familiarity with the organizational structures, processes and procedures of The University of Texas at Austin or another institution of higher education.
Salary Range
$69,500+ depending on qualifications
Working Conditions
May work around standard office conditions
Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation
Use of manual dexterity
Work as a team member, with sensitive and confidential information and with peers, clients and management.
Work outside of regular business hours, including evening or weekend work, may be required.
Occasional travel may be required, sometimes requiring use of a personal vehicle
Equal Opportunity Employer
The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.
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Hiring Department: Cockrell School of Engineering
Location: UT Main Campus, Austin, Texas
Position Type: Exempt
Weekly Scheduled Hours: 40
Earliest Start Date: Immediately
Position Duration: Expected to Continue
Purpose
The Communications Specialist supports the mission of the Hildebrand Department of Petroleum and Geosystems Engineering by translating complex technical work into clear, engaging stories and materials that resonate with various audiences including prospective students, alumni, industry partners, donors, and peer institutions. As energy systems evolve to address global challenges related to sustainability, security, and affordability, PGE is positioned at the forefront of innovation in subsurface engineering. Therefore, the Communications Specialist should have an interest in science and technology topics and an inquisitive mindset and a highly collaborative work style. The role is that of an individual contributor that occasionally manages vendors and freelancers (or students).
Responsibilities
Develop, coordinate, and implement a cohesive communications strategy aligned with departmental priorities and leadership direction.
Anticipate communication needs related to academic programs, research initiatives, faculty and student achievements, alumni engagement, and departmental milestones.
Regularly assess communication channels and tools to ensure effectiveness and relevance.
Create and oversee high-quality written and visual communications that highlight PGE’s research, educational programs, faculty expertise, student experience, and alumni impact.
Produce content such as feature stories, newsletters, reports, presentations, digital communications, and marketing materials that reflect the department’s brand and values.
Translate complex research and technical topics into accessible narratives for broad audiences.
Guide the development and upkeep of the department’s digital presence, including online content, digital signage, and social platforms, ensuring consistency with university branding and messaging standards. Identify opportunities to enhance visibility and engagement through thoughtful use of digital and visual media.
Support and strengthen the PGE brand by ensuring consistent messaging and visual identity across communications.
Serve as a departmental point of contact for media‑related requests, working in coordination with Cockrell School and University communications teams to support appropriate coverage of faculty research, awards, and initiatives.
Manage multiple communications projects simultaneously, coordinating with faculty, staff, students, vendors, and campus partners as needed.
Provide communications support for departmental initiatives and programs, ensuring materials are accurate, timely, and professionally executed.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, or a related field.
Five years of professional experience in public relations, communications, or writing and editing publications.
Minimum two years of experience managing professional social media accounts, including LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Instagram, and Facebook.
Expert knowledge of English grammar, spelling, capitalization, and punctuation, with the ability to write concise, error‑free prose.
Strong writing, interviewing, and editing skills, including proficiency in AP Style and the ability to convey complex technical material clearly to various audiences.
Expert‑level proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook; proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
Proficiency in Wordpress (or a related content management system).
Experience with template‑based graphic design and visual communications for print and digital media.
Demonstrated experience developing and executing communications for a variety of audiences.
Experience managing multiple projects and deadlines, with the ability to prioritize effectively.
Ability to work collaboratively and independently with minimal supervision, demonstrating professionalism and attention to detail.
Interest in science, technology and related fields.
Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.
Preferred Qualifications
Master’s degree in Communications, Journalism, or a related field.
More than seven years of professional experience in communications, marketing, or related roles.
Experience supporting communications in an academic, research, or technical environment.
Experience with media relations and strategic storytelling.
Ability to tailor writing to different audiences and situations.
Photography or video experience is a plus.
Familiarity with the organizational structures, processes and procedures of The University of Texas at Austin or another institution of higher education.
Salary Range
$69,500+ depending on qualifications
Working Conditions
May work around standard office conditions
Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation
Use of manual dexterity
Work as a team member, with sensitive and confidential information and with peers, clients and management.
Work outside of regular business hours, including evening or weekend work, may be required.
Occasional travel may be required, sometimes requiring use of a personal vehicle
Equal Opportunity Employer
The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.
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