Communication Specialist, SW CASC (Extended Temporary Employment) (Part Time)

The University of Arizona seeks a part-time Communication Specialist for the Southwest Climate Adaptation Science Center. This role involves developing a communications program focused on climate change, collaborating with leadership, managing outreach efforts, and creating content such as newsletters and social media updates. A Bachelor's degree in a related field and three years of experience in science communications are required. Limited remote work options are available.
About the position

The Communication Specialist for the Southwest Climate Adaptation Science Center (SW CASC) is responsible for developing and implementing a communications program that promotes the mission and science activities of the center. This role involves collaboration with the SW CASC leadership to facilitate outreach and engagement efforts, particularly in the context of climate change and its impacts on cultural and natural resources. The position is part-time and offers limited remote work options.

Responsibilities
• Collaborate with the University Director and Deputy Director to update the communication and outreach strategic plan.
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• Administer the execution of the SW CASC communication and outreach strategic plan.
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• Direct communications for the purpose of disseminating science results to partners across the Southwest.
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• Research, write, edit, and publish monthly newsletters and web articles of recent research activities, research partner highlights, and funded research projects.
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• Create video products and communication materials for public presentations.
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• Maintain an up-to-date website and oversee ongoing technical website maintenance.
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• Update social media accounts (LinkedIn, Instagram, X).
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• Develop and track metrics to evaluate social media outreach efforts.
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• Coordinate news releases within the University of Arizona and with other university consortiums and the National CASC.
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• Ensure compliance with USGS, Department of Interior, and UA communication requirements.
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• Work closely with the Evaluation team to evaluate the effectiveness of the communication and outreach plan.
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• Support the communication training and activities of SW CASC graduate and postdoctoral fellows.
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• Represent the SW CASC in meetings of other regional CASCs and National CASCs when appropriate.
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• Regularly participate in SW CASC meetings (virtual and in-person).

Requirements
• Bachelor's degree in a science-related field such as climate change, science communications, ecology, earth science, atmospheric science, oceanography, biology, or hydrology.
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• Three years of experience working in science writing or communications.

Nice-to-haves
• Experience creating graphics and document layouts using multimedia publishing tools (Canva, Photoshop, and Illustrator).
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• Three plus years of work experience in a communications or public information role at a research organization, public sector agency, or environmental non-governmental agency.
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• Experience in organizing and leading webinars.
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• Experience facilitating meetings and workshops and designing communications training material.

Benefits
• Health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
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• Life insurance and disability programs.
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• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
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• Tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members.
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• Retirement plans.
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• Access to UA recreation and cultural activities.