Assistant Director of Communications

The Department of Computer Science is looking for a dynamic, detail-oriented individual with strong communications skills to lead efforts that support the department in branding and publicizing accomplishments and events as well as reputation management to our primary external audiences such as undergraduates, graduates, prospective faculty, faculty, staff, corporate partners, alumni, donors, and the wider community.

Under the direction of the Chair of the Department of Computer Science (CS) or designee, the Assistant Director of Communications is responsible for managing internal- and external-focused communications projects including newsletters, media relations, website content, print and digital publications, event promotion, and social media from concept to execution. Duties will include copywriting and editing, story mining and research, managing projects and creative, sourcing and managing vendors, and ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery of projects.

This position will need to establish and maintain relationships with general media as well as tech media outlets. These duties may occasionally involve collaboration with the communications teams in the University of Maryland Institute for Advanced Computer Studies (UMIACS), the CMNS Dean’s Office and/or the UMD Office of Strategic Communications.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree and minimum of three (3) years professional experience in communications or public relations required or combination of advanced degree plus related communications experience.
• Understanding of higher education and technical academic programs.
• Superb writing and copyediting skills for web and print communication; demonstrated knowledge of AP style preferred.
• Intermediate to advanced user of Microsoft Office Suite (i.e., Excel, Word, PowerPoint), Adobe Creative Suite and Google Sheets, Docs, Slides, etc.
• Intermediate to advanced user of web technologies, applications and social media.
• Superior creative, interpersonal and organization skills are essential. Ability to interact successfully and collaboratively with individuals from a variety of different backgrounds and cultures is required.
• Ability to independently manage multiple projects and demanding timelines, think creatively to solve problems, and to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to learn the concepts and terminology of the computer science discipline well enough to write or talk about them, but not necessarily at the level of a researcher.
• Ability to handle sensitive matters with discretion, tact and confidentiality.
• Possess a team mentality and a willingness to collaborate with others in the department, UMIACS, and/or the College.
• Some evening and weekend meetings and events attendance will be required.

Preferences:

• Master’s degree or Ph.D preferred.
• Knowledge and interest in computer science highly preferred.
• Previous supervisory experience.
• Experience in higher education, preferably at UMD.
• Understanding of complex academic programs.
• Experience with photography or video production.
• Experience with web design or graphic design.

Additional Certifications: Additional Information:

Applicants are requested to upload three samples of published writing along with a resume, cover letter, and list of references.

Job Risks Not Applicable to This Position Physical Demands

Work is performed primarily in an office environment and requires the ability to operate standard office equipment and keyboards. Repetitive motion. Substantial movements (motion) of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers. The worker is required to have close visual acuity to perform an activity such as: preparing and analyzing data and figures, transcribing, viewing a computer terminal, extensive reading.

Posting Date: 12/20/2019 Closing Date: Open Until Filled Yes Best Consideration Date 01/05/2020 Diversity Statement:

The University of Maryland, College Park, an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, creed, marital status, political affiliation, personal appearance, or on the basis of rights secured by the First Amendment, in all aspects of employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

Applicant Documents