Job Description

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Closing Date:

04/06/2026

Type of Position:

Researchers

Workstudy Position:

No

Job Type:

Regular

Work Shift:

Day Shift (United States of America)

Sponsorship Available:

No

Institution Name:

University of Arkansas at Little Rock

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is a metropolitan research university that provides an accessible, quality education through flexible learning and unparalleled internship opportunities. At UA Little Rock, we prepare our more than 8,900 students to be innovators and responsible leaders in their fields. Committed to its metropolitan research university mission, UA Little Rock is a driving force in Little Rock's thriving cultural community and a major component of the city and state's growing profile as a regional leader in research, technology transfer, economic development, and job creation.

Below you will find the details for the position including any supplementary documentation and questions you should review before applying for the opening. To apply for the position, please click theApply link/button.

If you have a disability and need assistance with the hiring process please contact Human Resources at 501-916-3180

For general application assistance or if you have questions about a job posting, please contact Human Resources at 501-916-3180

Department:

University Communications - Creative Services

Department's Website:

of Job Duties:

The Director of Communications is responsible for news and other forms of content for the university. This position, who reports to the Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, researches, writes, and edits content for news releases, newsletters, websites, and other digital channels. The successful candidate will have a strong writing, editing, and social media background, be adept at storytelling, and have an understanding of print and online media relations. This position leads the communication team including writers and graduates.

Qualifications:

Required Education and/or Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in mass communication, journalism, public relations, or a related field;

• Minimum of two years of experience in public relations, news media, or communications.

Preferred Education and/or Experience:

• Experience in higher education communications or nonprofit sectors;

• Demonstrated success in securing media coverage;

• Proficiency with content management systems and digital publishing tools.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Write, edit, and produce targeted news content for university publications, the web, and external outlets;

• Proactively pitch stories to media outlets and develop relationships with journalists, editors, and influencers;

• Identify, prioritize, and produce content that supports university goals and key messages;

• Develop story ideas that highlight university successes, research, and community impact across multiple formats (web, print, video, social media);

• Collaborate with university departments and leadership to identify and tell compelling stories;

• Manage content for university news channels and oversee publication schedules;

• Supervise staff or student workers as assigned, providing guidance and mentorship;

• Ensure adherence to AP style and university brand standards;

• Conduct interviews with diverse sources, including faculty, students, alumni, and partners;

• Manage media lists, track coverage, and measure the impact of media efforts;

• Assist in crisis communications and media response efforts when necessary;

• Operate photo, video, and audio equipment for interviews and media events as needed.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong writing, editing, and proofreading skills with mastery of AP style;

• Proven ability to pitch stories and maintain relationships with media outlets;

• Skilled in storytelling and content creation across digital and traditional platforms;

• Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet tight deadlines;

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with diverse audiences;

• Understanding of web content management systems and social media best practices.

Additional Information:

Salary Information:

Commensurate with education and experience

Required Documents to Apply:

Cover Letter/Letter of Application, List of three Professional References (name, email, business title), Resume, Writing Sample

Optional Documents:

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Recruitment Contact Information:

Carrie Phillips
Chief Communications and Marketing Officer
cphillips@ualr.edu

All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Site https://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/UASYS

Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.

Pre-employment Screening Requirements:

Criminal Background Check, Sex Offender Registry

The University of Arkansas at Little Rock is committed to providing a safe campus community. We conduct background checks for applicants being considered for employment. Background checks include a criminal background check and a sex offender registry check. For certain positions, there may also be a financial (credit) background check, a Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) check, and/or drug screening. Required checks are identified in the position listing. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication or adverse financial history information alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background check information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

The University of Arkansas is an equal opportunity institution. The University does not discriminate in its education programs or activities (including in admission and employment) on the basis of any category or status protected by law, including age, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, protected veteran status, military service, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, or pregnancy. Questions or concerns about the application of Title IX, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex, may be sent to the University’s Title IX Coordinator and to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.

Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

All application information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.

Constant Physical Activity:

Sitting

Frequent Physical Activity:

Talking

Occasional Physical Activity:

Walking

Benefits Eligible:

Yes