Writer and Communications Specialist

Position Summary Classification Title : Public Communications Specialist
Working Title : Writer and Communications Specialist
Location : Boone, NC
Not Eligible for Visa Sponsorship : VISA sponsorship is not available for this position. All candidates must be eligible to work and live in the U.S.
Primary Purpose of Position 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. By combining writing and editing skills with detail-oriented logistical coordination and knowledge of institutional protocol, the specialist works with internal teams to transform complex information into clear content that advances the university's reputation and strengthens engagement with its audiences.
Minimum Qualifications 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.
Special Note: This is a generalized representation of positions in this class and is not intended to reflect essential functions per ADA. Examples of competencies are typical of the majority of positions, but may not be applicable to all positions.
Essential Job Functions Executive Communications & Speechwriting Develop foundational drafts, scripts, and talking points for senior university administrators for remarks and executive communications, incorporating diverse inputs such as data points, anecdotes and strategic messages
Collaborate with event teams and other colleagues to ensure all remarks align with event logistics and university protocols
Manage the review process, collaborating with senior leaders and editors to refine drafts and ensure all remarks are accurate and strategically aligned with university goals.
News Writing & Content Creation Research and write original feature stories and news content for Appalachian Today and other communication channels
Coordinate story assets, working with multimedia teams to gather photography, video or graphics that enhance the impact of written news and marketing content.
Develop story ideas to support overall communications strategy
Cross-Functional Team Support Act as a flexible editorial resource for the University Communications (UComm) team, assisting with fact-checking, proofreading, and information gathering for large-scale university projects and events.
Collaborate on integrated marketing campaigns, providing 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 with discretion and sensitivity to university goals.
Other duties, projects and special assignments as required
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Required for this Position Strong interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills
Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking and organizational skills
Ability to adapt an overall institutional voice across a variety of channels as audience-appropriate
Strict adherence to deadlines
Project coordination and timeline management
Competency in Google Suite and ability to utilize web-based tools and platforms
Preferred Qualifications A degree in communication, public relations, journalism, marketing, English or a 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 a higher education, government or corporate setting
Experience utilizing project management platforms
Working knowledge of generative AI tools and AI prompt engineering
Required Functional Competencies to Successfully Perform Job Duties Communication-Written: Independently assimilates and composes written materials to use in a variety of communication outlets; edits documents to ensure accuracy in content and form; drafts communications for final release.
Communication-Verbal: Independently communicates program information of moderate complexity and impact to targeted audiences; assimilates and communicates information that requires greater understanding and has greater impact on the organization. Establishes and maintains a variety of working relationships.
Knowledge-Technical: Understands and uses communication, design and visual art concepts and practices pertinent to the area of responsibility. Determines, utilizes, and applies standard and specialized techniques and technology appropriately. Uses a variety of moderately complex processes, procedures and techniques. Uses and incorporates various hardware and software packages, as well as traditional design methods. Researches and identifies new technology and makes recommendations for use and purchase. Applies knowledge of organizational principles of design elements. Promotes subject matter in a wide variety of media. Trains others in use of new methods and technical tools.
Compensation Anticipated Hiring Range: $63,233 - $70,476
Work Schedule 8 am-5 pm, with some evening/weekend hours as required.
Physical Demands Light physical work (moving boxes, tables and light equipment) as necessary. Ability to sit or stand for long periods of time, drive 100-300 miles or travel via air as needed. Must have valid drivers' license.

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