What are the responsibilities and job description for the Social Media Specialist position at Hamline University?
Founded in 1854, Hamline was the first university in Minnesota and among the first coeducational institutions in the nation. Hamline University provides a world-class education for undergraduate and graduate students. Our faculty, staff, and students cultivate an ethic of civic responsibility, social justice, and inclusive leadership and service.
Hamline University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. Hamline University does not discriminate on the basis of race; color; religion; creed; sex; sexual orientation; gender identity; gender expression; national origin; marital status; familial status; status with regard to public assistance; membership or activity in a local human rights commission; disability; age; protected veteran status; or any other status protected by applicable law in its education or employment programs or activities. The University will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities.
Social Media Specialist
Founded in 1854, Hamline University was the first university in Minnesota and among the first coeducational institutions in the nation. Hamline University provides a world-class education for undergraduate and graduate students. Our faculty, staff and students cultivate an ethic of civic responsibility, social justice and inclusive leadership and service.
JOB SUMMARY
The Social Media Specialist plays a pivotal role in strengthening Hamline University’s reputation, supporting enrollment efforts, and fostering engagement among donors and alumni. As a key member of the Marketing and Communications team, this position is responsible for developing and executing dynamic social media strategies that align with institutional goals. Through creative content, strategic storytelling, and innovative platform use, the specialist will enhance Hamline’s visibility and elevate its brand presence
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Content Creation and Management:
- Develop, curate, and publish high-quality, engaging content across social media platforms, including text, images, videos, and graphics.
- Maintain a cohesive brand voice that reflects the university’s identity and resonates with diverse audiences.
- Oversee a content calendar to ensure timely and strategic posting.
- Monitor social media channels for negative or harmful posts, analyze trends, and flag emerging issues that could impact the university’s reputation.
- Collaborate with Communications and Public Relations to assess concerns, determine response strategies, and ensure timely, consistent messaging.
Community Engagement:
- Foster positive interactions with followers by responding to comments and messages promptly.
- Build online communities that enhance the university’s connection with prospective students, alumni, and donors.
Analytics and Strategy:
- Monitor, track, and analyze social media performance metrics (e.g., reach, engagement, conversions).
- Use data-driven insights to refine strategies and improve campaign effectiveness.
Collaboration and Campaign Management:
- Oversee a paid advertising strategy and related campaign across digital channels, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and other TBD channels.
- Partner with university departments, including admissions and advancement, to integrate social media into larger marketing efforts.
- Coordinate with external stakeholders, such as influencers and agencies, to amplify campaigns.
Trend and Competitor Analysis:
- Stay informed about emerging social media trends and incorporate relevant innovations into strategies.
- Conduct competitive analysis to identify opportunities for differentiation and improvement.
Other Duties:
- Perform additional work-related duties as assigned. The omission of specific duties does not preclude the supervisor from assigning duties that are logically related to the position.
REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS
This position reports to the: Senior Director of Marketing and Communications
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND KEY COMPETENCIES
- Proficiency in social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok, etc.) and analytics tools (Google Analytics, platform-specific insights).
- Familiarity with scheduling and monitoring tools such as Sprout Social or Hootsuite.
- Basic graphic design and video editing skills.
- Ability to interpret metrics and align strategies with institutional goals.
- Strong problem-solving and organizational skills.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
- Creative mindset to craft engaging and innovative content.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively across departments and with external partners.
- Flexibility to adapt strategies based on feedback and evolving priorities.
MINIMUM EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, digital media, or a related field OR equivalent experience.
- 2 years of experience managing social media accounts and campaigns, preferably in higher education or a mission-driven organization.
PREFERRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
- Advanced knowledge of social media advertising, SEO principles, and audience segmentation.
- Experience with influencer marketing and managing partnerships.
- Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite or Canva for content creation.
WORKING CONDITIONS / EQUIPMENT
Must perform the following essential functions with or without a reasonable accommodation:
- Regular travel to capture content at events and locations across campus or offsite.
- May require evening or weekend work for event coverage.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- This position may require overtime during peak seasons.
- Occasional night and or weekend work may be required.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- This is a full time, 1.0 FTE, exempt position, 12 months a year.
Compensation and Benefits:
Pay Range: $50,000 - $58,000 annually
Full-Time Benefits:
We offer a comprehensive benefits package which may include:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Life insurance
- Short- and Long-Term Disability
- Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity
- 403(b)
- 403(b) matching
- Paid Time off, including vacation time, paid holidays and safe and sick leave time off
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account (FSA)
- Health savings account (HSA)
- Tuition waiver
All questions marked ‘Required’ need to be answered in order to submit the application. It is important that your application show all of the relevant education and experience you possess. Applications may be rejected if incomplete. If rejected, you must reapply for the position in order to be considered. A resume or curriculum vitae, a cover letter outlining your qualifications for and interest in the position, contact information for 3 current, professional references, as well as copies of transcripts (if required) must be uploaded with each application.
About Us
Since 1854, Hamline has set the standard for excellence in education, and we continue to do so today with the help of driven individuals who are dedicated to Hamline’s tradition of doing all the good we can in all the ways we can. Our community of students, faculty, and staff take seriously the ideals of the university—scholarship, leadership, and fellowship—and work together to enact positive change locally, nationally, and globally. Join us and see how you can take the lead here at Hamline.
Salary : $50,000 - $58,000
