IT Communication Specialist

Are you a dynamic communicator with a passion for technology? The University of Pittsburgh’s central IT department is seeking a talented IT Communications Specialist to craft compelling narratives that raise awareness of IT services, software, and cybersecurity resources available to the University community. Reporting to the Communications Director, you'll collaborate with innovative technical teams to translate complex concepts into clear, accessible messaging for non-technical audiences.

As a Communications Specialist at Pitt Information Technology, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping how students, faculty, and staff utilize technology. Your work will directly contribute to enhancing user understanding and satisfaction, ultimately contributing to the University’s values of academic excellence, collaboration, community, inclusion, innovation, and sustainability.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:

• Develop, execute, and assess comprehensive communication plans to raise awareness of new/evolving IT services, scheduled maintenance, unplanned outages, and cybersecurity threats.
• Write and edit engaging, accurate content for various platforms including email, websites, newsletters, and social media.
• Translate technical terminology into easily understandable language for our diverse audiences.
• Conduct research and user surveys, analyze feedback, and continuously refine our communication strategies.
• Participate in regular IT team meetings to stay abreast of new technologies and projects.

WHAT YOU’LL BRING:

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, creative writing, or related field.
• At least 2 years in a communications role, preferably with experience translating technical information for non-technical audiences.
• Superior interpersonal, written, & verbal communication skills coupled with creative problem-solving abilities.
• The ability to simplify complex information & navigate changing demands with ease.
• Self-motivation, strong organizational skills & effective time management. A positive attitude, proactive approach, & openness to feedback.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office; familiarity with Drupal, Photoshop, and/or Qualtrics is a plus.

Submit the following for consideration to join our team:

• A cover letter detailing your interest in the role & salary requirements.
• A current resume.
• Writing samples showcasing your ability to communicate complex information to non-technical audiences.

Please note: Applications without a cover letter and writing samples will not be considered. Finalists will be required to complete a writing and proofreading test.

OUTSTANDING PERKS

• Join a supportive, dynamic team within a vibrant university setting.
• Enjoy a hybrid work environment with the flexibility of primarily remote work and occasional on-campus engagement.
• Excellent healthcare options, generous paid time off, tuition benefits, and a culture that supports work-life balance.

The University offers a robust retirement savings plan with 100% employer match, 150% after vesting. 11 Paid Holidays. Paid Vac, Sick, Personal. Add'l Winter Recess Paid Time Off. Paid Parental Leave. Above-average Employer Contribution toward Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, Vision, Life, and more. Education benefits for staff, spouses/partners, dependents. Student loan assistance. Free transit pass.

Pitt Information Technology (Pitt IT) creates experiences that delight, inspire, and empower people to impact education, research, and the broader community. Your efforts will be supporting a world-renowned teaching and research facility. Pitt IT is committed to representing the diverse community we serve; to value and promote equity, humanity, and diversity. We encourage qualified individuals from all backgrounds to apply and join us in leveraging the strengths of people belonging to every race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender, gender-identity, neuro-variance, sexual orientation, age, disability, and veteran status.

At Pitt Information Technology, we foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. Join the team responsible for strategy, implementation, and maintenance of technology at the University of Pittsburgh-ranked by Forbes among Amazon, CDW, Cisco Systems, Google, LinkedIn, and Microsoft as one of “America’s Best Large Employers.”

Develops moderately complex web and print content and marketing. Acts as strategic contributor for communications team and creates diverse marketing materials for marketing team. Attends meetings designed for content planning and development. Ensures consistent messaging and maintains University brand and style.

Working with PC related hardware equipment, software applications, and telephony systems. Written and verbal communication. Interpersonal relations. Analyzing and organizing information. Proficient knowledge of IT.

Generally sedentary desk work with computer-keyboard-video phone other than traveling to other buildings on campus for meetings/events on occasion. Must be able to sit or stand for prolonged periods of time.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.