Social Media Specialist

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Social Media Specialist.

Location: 118 College Drive, Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001, United States

Division: VP Research

Position Type: Staff

Employment Status: Part Time

Grant Funded: Yes

Salary Range: 16.00 - 16.00

Pay Grade: (not specified)

Posting Close Date: Five Days After Posted

Special Instructions to Applicants
Please submit examples of social media content, campaigns, or accounts you have managed. Experience with public safety, training programs, or community outreach content is preferred. Include any available metrics (engagement, reach, growth).

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary
The Social Media Specialist supports the Scalable Rural Digital Forensics (RDFI) initiatives by managing and growing the program’s digital presence across social media platforms. This role develops and executes content strategies that promote training programs, outreach efforts, and partnerships with law enforcement and community stakeholders. The position ensures messaging is clear, professional, and aligned with public safety objectives. The Social Media Specialist plays a key role in increasing awareness, engagement, and participation in RDFI programs.

Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities

Develop and implement social media strategies that support Scalable Rural Digital Forensics training, outreach, and stakeholder engagement goals.

Create, schedule, and publish content across platforms, including text, graphics, and short-form video highlighting training activities, program impact, and partnerships.

Monitor social media channels, respond to comments and messages, and engage with law enforcement partners and the community in a professional and timely manner.

Analyze performance metrics and prepare reports to evaluate effectiveness and guide data-driven improvements.

Collaborate with program staff and partners to ensure content is accurate, appropriate, and aligned with RDFI messaging, including handling sensitive or restricted information as needed.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Communication, Public Relations, or a related field. One (1) year of experience in coordinating social media campaigns, tracking engagement metrics, and managing social media content production.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

Ability to organize and prioritize work while meeting multiple deadlines.

Ability to analyze and prepare scripts, shot lists, and correspondence.

Familiarity with social media content strategy and measuring engagement.

Excellent written and oral communication skills and the ability to collaborate with everyone.

Proficiency in social media management platforms such as Hootsuite and Loomly.

Ability to coordinate the production of both short-form (30–90 seconds) and long-form (10–15+ minutes) content for national distribution.

Preferred Qualifications
Two (2) years of experience coordinating social media campaigns, tracking engagement metrics, and managing social media content production.

Equal Opportunity Employer
The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.

#J-18808-Ljbffr