Strategic Communications Associate I

College of Education and Human Development

The College of Education and Human Development is seeking an experienced strategic communications professional with strong visual storytelling skills to enhance the college’s brand, outreach and engagement. This role requires a creative and detail-oriented individual who can design compelling visuals, develop multimedia content, and support various communication efforts across digital and print platforms.

As part of a collaborative team, flexibility, time management and attention to detail are essential. Our team works together to promote and support the college, meaning this role will involve a range of responsibilities. The ideal candidate will be skilled in crafting visuals that effectively communicate key messages, resonate with various audiences and contribute to the college’s broader strategic communication goals.

Essential Duties

• Produce and edit professional photos and video, taking direction and feedback from team members and colleagues across units.
• Plan and execute photo and video shoots, making creative recommendations and directing subjects to capture high-quality, impactful visuals.
• Operate professional photography and videography equipment, including cameras, lighting and editing software.
• Design digital and printed materials, including digital signage, brochures, social media graphics and marketing collateral, to highlight the college’s academic programs, research, achievements and impact.
• Assist with managing the College of Education and Human Development’s social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube), creating content (posts, short videos, reels, etc.) and advising on social media strategy.
• Work closely with the communications director and other team members on communications planning, audience engagement strategies and content development.
• Foster strong relationships with students, staff, faculty and campus partners to enhance communication efforts, increase visibility and ensure excellent collaboration and customer service.
• Ensure timely completion of projects, balancing multiple deadlines while maintaining high-quality work.
• Uphold and adhere to brand identity guidelines across all deliverables.
• Assist with special projects, signature events, and other communications-related initiatives.
• Other duties as assigned.

Professional Expectations

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Lightroom, Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, etc.) for graphic design, photography and video editing.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Excellent written, verbal and visual communication skills, with an emphasis on storytelling and audience engagement.
• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills to foster collaboration with colleagues, faculty and external partners.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality work.
• Familiarity with brand identity guidelines and the ability to apply them consistently across all materials.
  

M-F 8am – 5pm, with occasional evening and weekend hours for events

A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and 2 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

• Highly organized self-starter who thrives in a dynamic, rapidly changing environment.
• Outstanding collaboration skills and a proven ability to build relationships across departments to support institutional goals.
• Experience in strategic content development and multimedia storytelling for a variety of audiences.
• Ability to analyze and use data-driven insights to refine communication strategies.
• Knowledge of higher education communications and best practices for engaging academic and community audiences.
  

Salary Range: $18.50 - $34.18 hourly

Grade: GGS-008

University Title: Straregic Communications Associate I

Internal applicants can determine their University title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Resume, cover letter, portfolio samples

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.