Department

COMM Media Relations

About the Department

University Communications focuses on building the brand, enhancing the reputation, and growing public understanding of the University of Chicago, where rigorous inquiry shapes fields, creates a transformative education and experience, and confronts the most important problems of our time. University Communications specializes in content creation, media relations, public affairs, brand strategy, and video and audio production for the University, while serving as a communication partner and center of excellence across UChicago.

Job Summary

This role plans, prepares and disseminates information designed to keep the public informed of the University's perspectives, programs, and accomplishments. Work is performed with a moderate level of guidance, and typically includes marketing, press relations, creative editorial and design services, and internal communications.

Responsibilities

Compiles and sends a daily summary of UChicago news media coverage.Researches media contacts and creates lists of journalists tailored to various media outreach efforts.Builds faculty bio pages for the University website.Recommends best uses of metrics for media relations efforts and compiling quarterly metrics reports.Updates the University’s Media Resources site.Contributes to news media pitches, and follows up with reporters and editors.Coordinates responses to media inquiries.Builds the Monday Outlook, a weekly email that highlights University experts who can speak to the media on the week’s news.Plans, develops and disseminates information designed to keep the public informed of the organization's programs, accomplishments, or point of view, with moderate levels of guidance and direction.Continues to build higher level knowledge of the University, processes and customers.Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

Education:

Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.

Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Experience:

Working in journalism, public relations, or higher education.

Preferred Competencies

Strong interest in following the news.Work independently with a high degree of initiative, organization, and attention to detail.Work on multiple projects simultaneously, set priorities, and meet deadlines.Knowledge of current events and the media landscape.Write well and complete other tasks quickly, under tight deadlines.

Working Conditions

Early morning work.Hybrid environment. In-person presence at our Hyde Park campus three days a week and as-needed at important meetings or other events that require in-person support or attendance arise.

Application Documents

Resume/CV (required)Cover Letter (required)

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family

Communications

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

37.5

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Salary

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FLSA Status

Exempt

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Pay Range

$51,000.00 - $66,000.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

 

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

 

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.  A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.  Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

 

The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.