Strategic Communications Specialist – Intermediate or Senior 

Join UVA's Information Technology Services  

Are you passionate about translating technical insights into engaging, impactful communication? Information Technology Services (ITS) at the University of Virginia (UVA) is seeking a Strategic Communications Specialist to support and enhance our growing portfolio of research computing initiatives. As part of a collaborative and dynamic environment, you will help advance the visibility and engagement of research computing services that empower faculty, students, and staff at UVA. If you thrive in a space where innovation, technology, and communication intersect, this role may be your perfect fit. 

 

Why Join UVA ITS? 

Be a voice for transformative research: Promote cutting-edge services supporting high-performance computing and computational research. 

Work in a diverse and inclusive workplace: Collaboration and inclusivity are at the core of UVA’s values. 

Tell our story: Work closely with experts to tell compelling stories about discovery and impact. 

Join a high-performing communications and outreach team. 

This is a 2 year limited term position based on funding. Funding will be reviewed with possible extension.

 

Key Responsibilities 

As a Strategic Communications Specialist, you'll be a member of the ITS Communications and Outreach team and serve as a lead consultant, planner, and delivery expert for Research Computing communications. UVA Research Computing (RC) a division of the Information Technology Services (UVA ITS) organization. 

Develop strategic communication plans aligned with the group’s goals and outreach strategies, ensuring UVA’s research computing offerings are recognized and accessible to target audiences. 

Create engaging content: Craft and distribute materials, including web content, newsletters, research profiles, social media posts, email campaigns, and presentations. 

Enhance online presence: Manage the content and design of the Research Computing website and social media channels to build brand identity and engagement, as well as usability and accessibility. 

Collaborate with internal teams: Work closely with UVA research computing staff, university leadership, and other communication units to align messaging and strategies across platforms. 

Analyze and improve communication efforts: Track metrics and feedback, ensuring communications meet goals and support continuous improvement. 

Manage communication campaigns: Plan and execute internal and external campaigns to raise awareness of Research Computing services and events. 

Support crisis communications: Assist in crafting timely messages during unexpected or critical events. 

Elevate special events: Help plan and promote key events like poster exhibitions, open houses, and workshops, driving awareness and engagement. 

 

Qualifications 

Required: 

Bachelor's degree in communications, English, marketing, or a related field. 

5+ years of experience in strategic communications, specifically within a technology, scientific, or research-related environment. 

Strong skills in technical writing, content creation, and editing for multi-channel platforms and audiences, including websites, newsletters, social media, and email. 

Experience managing websites, proficiency with content management systems, and digital accessibility. 

Demonstrated ability to translate complex concepts and language into content accessible for a general audience. 

Experience crafting presentations and talking points for leadership. 

Successful experience driving event participation and awareness, identifying new audiences, and connecting community members with central services. 

Analytical mindset with experience tracking engagement metrics and identifying audiences for communications. 

Preferred: 

Bachelor's degree in communications, English, marketing, or a related field. 

Experience communicating about research, technology, scientific initiatives within a higher education environment. 

Familiarity with research or high-performance computing. 

Experience working with university stakeholders. 

Strong expertise in accessibility and usability for web and digital communications. 

Experience in building reputation and voice. 

 

Work Arrangements 

This position offers a hybrid work environment with in-person meetings and availability required on Grounds in Charlottesville, VA 

 

Benefits 

Choice of health, dental, and vision insurance plans. 

Generous paid time off, including holidays and parental leave. 

Tuition assistance and professional development opportunities. 

 

How to Apply 

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and any supporting materials through the UVA online job portal. Review of applicants will begin and continue until the position is filled. 

External applicants must apply online here. Search R0067040 

For additional information, please contact: 

Bill Crane, Senior Academic Recruiter, at xer5ff@virginia.edu. 

Sherry McCarty, Director of Communications & Outreach, at skm4a@virginia.edu. 

Discover more about Research Computing at UVA (rc.virginia.edu) and UVA Information Technology Services (its.virginia.edu, cio.virginia.edu).  

The University of Virginia, including the UVA Health System which represents the UVA Medical Center, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, UVA Physician’s Group and the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, are fundamentally committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff.  We believe diversity is excellence expressing itself through every person's perspectives and lived experiences.  We are equal opportunity and affirmative action employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, veteran or military status, and family medical or genetic information.