Communications Specialist

Communications Specialist at The University of Texas at Austin

Hiring Department: Enterprise Technology - Vice President and Office of CIO

Location: Austin, TX

Position Duration: Expected to continue until Jan 31, 2027

Earliest

Start Date:

Immediately

Weekly Scheduled

Hours:

40

FLSA Status: Exempt

Position Open To: All Applicants

Position Type: Full‑time

Seniority Level: Not Applicable

Purpose

The Communications Specialist supports Enterprise Technology by developing clear, engaging, and strategically aligned communications that enhance understanding of technical initiatives across the University. The role involves creating communication plans, drafting content for different audiences, and ensuring complex technical information is translated into accessible, user‑friendly messaging.

Responsibilities

• Develop comprehensive communication plans for technical projects, service updates, and organizational initiatives.
• Partner with project managers, technical leads, and leadership to understand project objectives, timelines, risks, and user impacts.
• Recommend communication approaches, channels, and timelines to maximize clarity and reach.
• Translate technical concepts, system changes, and architectural information into clear, concise language for non‑technical audiences.
• Draft and edit content including announcements, FAQs, presentations, website copy, newsletters, talking points, user guides, and briefing materials.
• Ensure all communications are accurate, accessible, and aligned with university style and brand standards.
• Collaborate with internal teams (technical, operational, executive) to gather information and validate messaging.
• Support communication needs for cross‑campus stakeholders, including business officers, faculty, staff, and students.
• Serve as a communication liaison between Enterprise Technology and campus partners as needed.
• Maintain and update communication templates, processes, and documentation.
• Monitor communications effectiveness, gather feedback, and adjust strategies accordingly.
• Assist with internal communication campaigns and support organizational initiatives, events, and awareness efforts.
• Perform other related functions as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, English, or related field.
• 3 or more years of experience in a similar role delivering IT project communications, writing, or information design.
• Demonstrated experience in writing, editing, and developing communication materials.
• Ability to translate technical or complex information into clear, audience‑appropriate content.
• Strong organizational and project coordination skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross‑functional teams and meet tight deadlines.
• Preferred:
  Experience in IT communications, higher education, or technical environments; familiarity with communication best practices for change management or large‑scale technology projects; proficiency with communication tools and platforms (Microsoft 365, SharePoint, Teams, and email platforms); exceptional written and verbal communication; audience‑centered messaging; technical comprehension and translation; strategic thinking and planning; collaboration and relationship‑building; adaptability in fast‑paced environments.

Salary Range

$45,900 + depending on qualifications

Working Conditions

• May work around standard office conditions.
• Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation.
• Use of manual dexterity.

Work Shift

• Monday – Friday, flexible between 7 am – 6 pm.

Required Materials

• Resume/CV.
• 3 work references with contact information, at least one reference from a supervisor.
• Letter of interest.

Benefits

• Competitive health benefits (Employee premiums covered at 100%, family premiums at 50%).
• Vision, Dental, Life, and Disability insurance options.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Teachers Retirement System of Texas (TRS) or Optional Retirement Program.
• Additional voluntary retirement programs:
  Tax‑sheltered annuity (403(b)) and deferred compensation program (457(b)).
• Flexible spending account options for medical and childcare expenses.
• Training and conference opportunities.
• Tuition assistance.
• Athletic…