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Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants must submit a resume, cover letter, one press release, and one feature story demonstrating strong writing and editing skills, AP-style proficiency, and the ability to produce clear, engaging, well-structured content.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary

The Communications Specialist for News will produce clear, accurate and compelling news releases and feature stories to highlight the university’s mission, achievements and impact. This position will be responsible for proofreading, editing, and drafting press releases, feature stories, and related content in support of the university’s overall content strategy. The Communications Specialist for News will report to the Assistant Director for News and Media Relations and will work collaboratively with the department to ensure consistency, accuracy and alignment of messaging across platforms.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

+ Conceptualizes, develops and writes media content as identified by the Assistant Director for News and Media Relations that promotes university initiatives, programs, and events that highlight faculty, students and institutional impact

+ Proofreads and edits submitted press releases, feature stories, and university news content for grammar, style, clarity, accuracy and Associated Press Style compliance; ensures consistency of tone, branding and messaging across all written materials

+ Assists the Assistant Director for News in planning, prioritizing, and executing news and feature content to support university communications goals; provides input on content calendars and key messaging priorities

+ Serves as an editor of the Southern Miss Now news web page; posts news stories and identifies appropriate photos for maximum impact; updates existing articles with new information or links, as needed for accuracy

+ Counsels University administrators, faculty, and staff on items related to regional and national news outlets

+ Maintains active knowledge of developments in field, seeks out learning opportunities and completes other duties as assigned.