Communication Specialist

The Communications Specialist creates and delivers print and digital communication content and materials for internal and external audiences to keep stakeholders informed and engaged through channels such as intranet, email, and events. Responsibilities include producing content for the Blackhawk Magazine, newsletters, organizational updates, and executive messages; working directly with leadership to support messaging needs; and tracking the effectiveness of communication tools. This position also provides marketing and media support to Athletics, including photography, publications, and related communication/promotion to support athletic programs.

This position will close on Monday, February 23, 2026. After this date, we will begin the review of applicants.

Content Creation & Copywriting

Conceptualize, write, edit, and proof content for a diverse array of College projects, ensuring compliance with AP and internal style guidelines and branding standards. Content may include website copy, academic program descriptions, press releases, internal staff communications, fundraising communications, recruitment campaigns, magazine features, and advertisements.
1. Develop creative campaigns and communication plans, ensuring content aligns with project specifics and department goals.
2. Partner with Academics and Student Services to lead the development of the course catalog.
3. Utilize internal platforms like intranet (SharePoint), MS Teams, and social media to deliver communication and drive engagement with the College mission.
4. Serve as quality control editor to ensure accuracy, consistency, and brand voice across departmental communications as needed.
5. Maintain content calendar to coordinate timing for major communications, campaigns, and publications.
6. Ensure content meets accessibility standards (ADA/Section 508) and inclusive communication practices.
7. Create and maintain a database of faculty and staff content experts that can be utilized for written content and media interviews. Proactively identify students, faculty, staff, and partners to interview to develop content for various platforms.
8. Serve as a communications project lead for assigned initiatives from intake through delivery.

Media & Public Relations

1. Serve as a media contact, drafting materials and providing back up to the Public Information Officer for press releases and media-related needs.
2. Support Athletics as the primary contact for athletics media and press releases.
3. Coordinate and distribute press releases to include media oversight for Athletic events.
4. Monitor media coverage and identify opportunities and issues requiring College response or follow-up.
5. Provide communication support during time-sensitive or high-profile situations in coordination with the Public Information Officer.

Athletic Support

1. Attend various athletic events to support photography, media coverage, and content development.
2. Maintain athletics-related content for web, print, and digital platforms. Interview athletes for potential stories and communications.
3. Collaborate with the Athletic Director to create a uniform brand and support for Athletics.
4. Coordinate with coaches and the Athletic Director to ensure timely and accurate coverage of events.

Branding & Marketing Support

1. Ensure all communications adhere to institutional brand standards and messaging guidelines.
2. Manage communication projects, balancing priorities and deadlines across departments.
3. Collaborate with marketing team to coordinate incoming department projects.
4. Develop and prepare marketing reports and metrics to measure success.
5. Provide daily support and back up coverage for the Print Center.
6. Support promotion of key College events, enrollment initiatives, and other College-wide campaigns.
7. Support department activities including graphic design, photography, and social media/content support. Provide backup for other members of the marketing team.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

1. Excellent writing, editing, grammar, and English language skills to deliver high quality content.
2. Familiarity and adherence to Associated Press style.
3. Demonstrated interpersonal and verbal communication skills working with all levels of internal and external stakeholders. Experience working with culturally diverse populations.
4. Ability to create strategy and/or writing for internal and external audiences.
5. Ability to manage highly confidential and sensitive information.
6. Strong project management and organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to work independently and as part of a team to complete projects.
7. Demonstrated problem solving and analytical skills.
8. Strong technical skills; experience with SharePoint, Canva, and Adobe Creative Suite preferred.
9. Digital photography, animation, and/or video editing skills preferred.
10. Experience with various marketing platforms, channels, and best practices, including social, digital, and email marketing.

Education & Experience:

1. Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, public relations, or a related field or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
2. Two years of related work experience in communications, writing, or marketing.

Blackhawk Technical College does not offer H-1B or other work authorization visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire and maintain work authorization throughout the employment term.