Writer and Communications Specialist

Writer and Communications Specialist
Location: Boone, NC

Position Summary: The Writer and Communications Specialist serves as a core contributor to the university’s institutional messaging, developing narratives that articulate the institution’s mission and strategic vision. This role is responsible for drafting executive communications and news features while ensuring a consistent voice across professional platforms.

Responsibilities

Draft and edit executive communications, speeches, and remarks for senior university administrators, incorporating data, anecdotes, and strategic messages.

Collaborate with event teams to align remarks with event logistics and university protocols.

Manage the review process, working with senior leaders and editors to refine drafts and ensure accuracy and strategic alignment.

Research and write original feature stories and news content for Appalachian Today and other communication channels.

Coordinate story assets and work with multimedia teams to gather photography, video, or graphics that enhance written news and marketing content.

Develop story ideas that support the overall communications strategy.

Provide editorial support to the University Communications team, including fact‑checking, proofreading, and information gathering for large‑scale projects and events.

Assist with integrated marketing campaigns, delivering high‑quality copy that ensures a unified brand voice across all university‑wide communications.

Attend meetings and events to gather information for future communications; provide timely reporting and analysis.

Perform other duties, projects, and special assignments as required.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.

Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and organizational skills.

Ability to adapt an institutional voice across varied channels and audiences.

Strict adherence to deadlines.

Project coordination and timeline management.

Competency in Google Workspace and web‑based tools and platforms.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline or equivalent combination of training and experience.

All degrees must be from accredited institutions.

Preferred Qualifications

Degree in communication, public relations, journalism, marketing, English, or related field.

Five years of relevant work experience as a writer or editor on a creative or news team.

Speech‑writing experience.

Demonstrated history of researching and writing documents on deadline.

Knowledge of AP Style and familiarity with other writing style guides.

Experience with event and/or project management.

Demonstrated history of building relationships in higher education, government, or corporate settings.

Experience utilizing project management platforms.

Working knowledge of generative AI tools and AI prompt engineering.

EEO Statement
This is a non‑discriminatory employer, equal opportunity for all qualified applicants.

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