Communications Manager I

Position Summary

Salary: $64,500 - $78,900 annually depending on experience.  MSU Benefits - Free comprehensive health care for you and your family as well as a 10% contribution toward your retirement; Generous sick, vacation, personal and holiday time; Eligible to work a partial remote schedule once probationary period is completed. Regular attendance is required to meet business and customer needs. 

This position will collaborate with team members to plan internal and external strategic communication strategies and tactics related to key initiatives and priorities. The position will be responsible to design, create, edit, and adapt content; coordinate multimedia components for integrated communication efforts, which could include photography, videography, graphic design, and script writing; engage in strategic storytelling through feature writing and article development; revise external website and internal SharePoint site content; and identify communication needs and publicity opportunities.

The breakdown of job responsibilities is as follows:
40% Digital Content Creation: Develop concepts and materials for digital assets while monitoring workflow to ensure production schedules are met. This could include video scripts, video production, photography, email marketing, PowerPoint creation, podcasts, ghostwriting or op-eds, report layout, newsletters using a bulk email system such as Constant Contact or Mailchimp, and other miscellaneous content.

25% Content Writing: Develop leads, conduct interviews, write news releases, feature stories, and other content. Work with other team members and students to edit and develop content.

25% Website Support: Update websites, both proactively and as requested, in a timely fashion to external website and internal SharePoint site. Updates require basic familiarity with a content management system, but no expertise in HTML or coding.

10% Planning: Keep a pulse on trending news and available information (internally and externally) to identify communication needs and publicity opportunities. Collaborate with team members to plan internal and external strategic communication. Use data to track results and make recommendations.

This position will engage in high performing, leading edge practices, valuing people, safety, integrity, and service. At IPF, we are committed to being trusted partners, recognized for innovation and reliability.

Minimum Requirements

Knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year college degree program in Journalism, Telecommunications, Communications, Public Relations, or related field; one to three years of related and progressively more responsible or expansive work experience in public and media relations, composing, editing and publication production, news, broadcasting, and print media, and/or marketing, advertising, and creative services; graphic design; word processing; desktop publishing; web design; presentation; spreadsheet and/or database software; public presentation; or radio production; or computer programming/technology; experience managing content for social media channels; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Desired Qualifications

Education:

Degree in Creative Communications, Graphic Design, Digital Media Production, Digital Storytelling, Marketing, Public Relations, Advertising, or related field. 

Experience:

• Experience managing content within a web content management system (e.g., WordPress or Drupal).
• Demonstrated ability to produce digital and print communications materials, including graphics, photography, video, and written content.
• Demonstrated experience with photography and video production in support of storytelling and promotion.
• Experience developing and managing social media content and campaigns, including monitoring performance and audience engagement.
• Strong writing, editing, and verbal communication skills related to marketing and media communications.
• Designing and producing compelling visual storytelling across digital platforms.
• Experience collaborating with diverse stakeholders and adjusting content for varied target audiences.
• Ability to work as an effective member of a team and independently as necessary.

Skills:

• Expansive interpersonal and relationship building skills.
• Strong visual design sensibility and attention to detail.
• Knowledge of digital accessibility
• Innovative, decisive, and creative thinking.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines simultaneously.

A lifelong learner and problem solver who focuses on innovative solutions aligned with University goals.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Application Materials

Please submit the following with your application:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Names and contact information of three professional references
• Link to online portfolio of relevant creative communications work (can include in cover letter)

Work Hours

STANDARD 8-5

Website

https://ipf.msu.edu/

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.

Bidding eligibility ends April 7, 2026, 11:55 PM