Social Media Strategist

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions that contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

• Health & Wellness:
  Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, and flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness:
  Competitive salary and 403(b) with company match
• Professional Development:
  Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks:
  Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

To learn more about benefits, visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).-wellness

The Social Media Strategist plays a critical role in elevating, monitoring, and protecting the Howard University brand across digital platforms. Reporting to the Associate Vice President of Multimedia and Digital Operations, this position manages the creation and execution of social media calendars, develops content tailored for key audiences, performs social listening and sentiment analysis, and provides governance support for the University’s network of official accounts.

• Identify and execute strategies to build Howard University’s visibility and enhance its reputation through innovative use of social platforms.
• Create and maintain comprehensive social media calendars across flagship channels.
• Assist with onboarding new university social media accounts, ensuring adherence to governance guidelines.
• Develop, plan, and implement creative programs, campaigns, and engagement strategies to grow audiences and increase impact.
• Provide timely and accurate social media reporting that highlights KPIs, insights, and recommendations.
• Support governance tracking, including account audits, policy adherence, and training.
• Collaborate with Office of University Communications leadership and staff to ensure alignment between institutional priorities and digital storytelling.
• Recommend new tools, platforms, and technologies (including generative AI) that advance university objectives.
• Provide training, workshops, or consultative support to internal stakeholders.
• Manage social communities across all official platforms and foster positive engagement.
• Support crisis communications management by monitoring trends and providing timely recommendations.

• Advanced understanding of major social media platforms, analytics tools, and content formats tailored for diverse audiences.
• Strong knowledge of online reputation management, governance best practices, and sentiment analysis.
• Understanding of generative AI, emerging platforms, and advanced creative tools for higher education brand storytelling.
• Intermediate to expert proficiency in Canva and social-native video editing (e.g., Reels, Shorts, Tik Tok).
• Demonstrated ability to design and edit content using professional software (Adobe Premiere, Photoshop, or similar).
• Strong writing skills with clear audience focus, tone, nuance, and detail.
• Creative thinking to conceptualize campaigns that inspire audiences and attract media attention.
• Strong project management, organization, and reporting skills with proven ability to juggle multiple deadlines.
• Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and address sensitive issues, crisis situations, and community management.
• Initiative and creativity in generating new content ideas and campaign approaches.
• Results-oriented, resourceful, and enthusiastic with a proactive, solutions-first approach.

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Marketing, Advertising, Public Relations, or a related field.
• 2–3 years of progressive experience in digital communications, social media management, or online marketing.
• High-level to expert proficiency in Canva and social-native video editing.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a high-volume environment and manage multiple projects.

• Hands‑on experience managing a highly active, high-reach social platform (university, corporate, entertainment, or public figure).
• Knowledge or strong interest in generative AI tools and technologies for content creation.
• Intermediate to advanced skills in higher-end editing software (Adobe Premiere or similar).
• Experience with social media scheduling software (Meltwater, Sprout, Hootsuite, Loomly, Later, or similar).
• Prior social media experience in higher education, large organizations, or public-facing institutions preferred but not required.

Expected Salary Range: $63,636 - $70,000