Social Media Specialist

Department:

Global Marketing/Communication

Salary/Grade:

EXS 6

Job Summary
The Social Media Specialist supports the execution of social media strategy for Northwestern University within the Office of Global Marketing and Communications (OGMC). Reporting to the Director of Marketing, this role manages day-to-day publishing and content coordination across primary social channels, helping shape Northwestern's online voice and presence.

Working closely with OGMC colleagues and university partners, the Social Media Specialist highlights research, student experiences, major university moments, and institutional priorities through engaging storytelling. The role also monitors conversations, contributes to reporting and analytics, and supports timely communications during high-profile events.

This position is ideal for a creative, detail-oriented communicator who enjoys developing content, staying on top of social media trends, and collaborating across teams to elevate compelling stories.

*Cover letter required for consideration

Responsibilities

Draft, schedule, and publish day-to-day content across Northwestern's social media channels

Maintain the social media calendar and manage workflow for incoming content requests

Conduct social listening to identify trends, engagement opportunities, and emerging issues

Flag reputational risks and provide support during crisis communications

Support planning and execution of social media campaigns aligned with institutional priorities

Contribute creative ideas for content, formats, and storytelling approaches

Serve as primary administrator for social media management platform, Sprinklr

Compile performance data and contribute to reporting, translating insights into recommendations

Support documentation and coordination for the cross-campus Northwestern Social Media Workgroup

Maintain strong relationships with campus partners to source content and amplify stories

Collaborate with OGMC colleagues to ensure consistent voice, tone, and brand standards

Manage the social media inbox and internal request channels to ensure timely responses

Stay current on evolving social media platforms, tools, and best practices

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, public relations, journalism, or related field

2-4 years of professional social media experience

Experience managing and publishing content across major social platforms

Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills

Knowledge of platform best practices and audience engagement strategies

Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines

Experience with social media management platforms (Sprinklr preferred)

Familiarity with analytics and reporting tools, and ability to translate insights into recommendations

Collaborative approach and ability to work across teams and departments

Self‑motivated and proactive in monitoring trends and proposing creative ideas

Willingness to monitor social media during off‑hours for major events or crises

Preferred Qualifications

Experience managing high‑reach, active social platforms

Prior experience in higher education, large organizations, or public‑facing institutions

Knowledge of mobile‑first design and video editing tools (e.g., CapCut, Adobe Premiere)

Bonus if familiar with paid social media, Google Analytics, SEO

*This position is hybrid based on the Evanston campus

Target hiring range for this position will be between $58,000–$68,000 per year. Offered salary will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.

Benefits
Health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid vacation and holidays; paid medical/sick and parental leave; tuition benefits for the employee and dependents; pre‑tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care; generous retirement savings options; and wellness programs. For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, visit our benefits page.

Professional Growth & Development
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you’re interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit our learning page to learn more.

Equal Opportunity Employment
Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. Additional information on the accommodations process is available at our website.

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