Public Information Officer

About This Role

The position of Public Information Officer will develop and direct all marketing and communications efforts within the Department of Grain Science and Industry. This position will lead all public relations, communication, and information dissemination efforts, including but not limited to newsletters, email campaigns, social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn), advertisements, news releases and feature stories, video and photography content, and website maintenance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, plan and execute a multi-faceted communications strategy leveraging internal and external sources focused on driving awareness of the department and increasing student enrollment.
• Independently develop news articles/communications pieces for faculty and staff based on interviews, research updates, student perspectives, or other sources.
• Proactively, independently, create communication concepts and approaches, which can be executed by self or others, to further the mission of the department.
• Distribute timely news releases for the department/IGP Institute-related news and courses.
• Communicate regularly with departmental updates through social media, email, phone, and in-person to further the mission of the department and the IGP Institute.
• Format email communications to identified groups such as prospective students, alumni, and other audiences to provide up-to-date or developing information according to individual interest and involvement with the school.
• Independently drive all departmental electronic communication by inventing and disseminating novel content, on a daily/weekly basis.
• For routine electronic communication, maintain publication schedule for timely and consistent delivery and audience engagement.
• Analyze and report available metrics monthly to measure social media engagement and modify content as appropriate.
• Monitor, evaluate and update IGP Institute and Department of Grain Science and Industry websites to ensure all information is current, consistent and impactful.
• Creation and direct execution of photography and videography projects including but not limited to taking photos or video, directing photographers, editing content, overseeing and providing feedback on staff projects.
• Keep updated on current communications and marketing trends in higher education to utilize the best marketing practices.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

About Us

The Department of Grain Science and Industry is the only department of its kind in the United States.  Our globally unique programs are recognized for the quality of its graduates and the excellence of its faculty and staff.  We need someone who is a self-starter, adaptable and customer-service oriented to contribute to the overall success of the department.

Worksite Option

This position is on-site. 

What You'll Need to Succeed

Minimum Qualifications:

• Requires a bachelor's degree and one year of relevant experience. This position may use an educational equivalency as determined relevant by a hiring manager. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, public relations, journalism, agricultural journalism, or related field.
• Three to five years of professional experience in marketing, communications, public relations, or related field.
• Experience with designing, writing and editing marketing materials.
• Demonstrated skills in Adobe Create Suite and Microsoft Office.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills Ability to work independently and as a team player with initiative and a professional attitude.
• Attention to detail and effective prioritization/organization skills.
• Aptitude to learn new technologies and computer skills.
• Experience with email and website platforms.
• Appreciation and experience interacting with international audiences and foreign cultures.

Sponsorship eligibility:

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents:

1. Cover Letter

2. Resume

3. Three professional references 

Screening of Applications Begins

Immediately and continues until position is filled.

Anticipated Hiring Pay Range

$47,486.00 to $53,000.00