Extra Help-Strategic Communications Coordinator

Vice President External Relations & Communications – Urbana
Posting category: Extra Help.

The Communications Coordinator provides dedicated support to the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing during a period of high-priority deliverables, including the FY2026 Annual Report, legislative advocacy communications, and institutional storytelling initiatives. Reporting directly to the Director of Brand and Marketing, this temporary role ensures that key communications projects move forward on time, on brief, and at a high standard of quality. The coordinator serves as the connective tissue across the team, managing workflow, tracking timelines, gathering assets, shepherding reviews, and keeping every stakeholder informed and accountable. During this engagement, the coordinator will carry content responsibilities, including writing, editing, and proofreading across a range of deliverables.

Responsibilities

Draft, edit, and refine communications content, including written communications, web copy, talking points, and other deliverables as assigned

Maintain consistent voice, tone, and messaging alignment across materials, in accordance with University of Illinois System brand and style guidelines

Work with the Communications Specialist on timelines and schedule; facilitate project check-ins, status updates, and cross-functional review meetings

Proofread all outgoing materials for accuracy, consistency, grammar, and adherence to University of Illinois System style guidelines

Fact-check key claims, statistics, and attributed quotes before materials are finalized

Track action items and follow up with team members and stakeholders to ensure accountability

Collect, organize, and manage source materials, including copy, data, and approvals needed for each deliverable

Manage the review and approval process for each deliverable, ensuring the right stakeholders receive materials at the right time

Track feedback, consolidate edits, and route revisions through the appropriate channels

Work independently with minimal supervision; exercise sound editorial judgment under deadline pressure

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, marketing, or a related field

Three or more years of experience in communications, content, or a related role

Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills with close attention to detail; familiarity with AP Style preferred

Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a deadline-driven environment

Proficiency with project management tools, collaboration platforms, and content management systems

Experience in a higher education, government, or large institutional setting preferred

Appointment Information
Extra Help employees are not hired with the intent of guaranteed employment. Employment is for a maximum of 900 hours, with no benefits associated. The expected start date is 7/1/2026. Salary range is $28–$40 per hour, commensurate with experience. Sponsorship for work authorization is not available for this position.

EEO Statement
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. The System meets required non-discrimination statements, provides background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

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