Communications Specialist-System Human Resources (Hybrid)
University of Illinois

Communications Specialist-System Human Resources (Hybrid)

Sponsorship for work authorization is not available for this position.

System Office positions, such as this position, are not eligible for the employee referral program.

Job Summary
The primary function of the HR Communications Specialist will focus on HR- and benefits-related communications. This position will provide expertise in the areas of internal and employee communications, as well as online content strategy and digital accessibility. Additional responsibilities include topical research and documentation, special project participation and management, and creating and managing surveys.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Plan, write, and edit email to inform units, departments, and/or employees about matters related to human resources and benefits (i.e., new and revised laws, policies, benefits plans and programs, diversity, equity, inclusion & belonging, and required state and federal notifications). Vary tone and urgency appropriately to message, whether informational or action-oriented, while cultivating a consistent voice for SHRS. Draft written mass and targeted communications with specificity and sensitivity to the intended audience. Distribute official internal and employee communications on behalf of SHRS.
• Review and maintain SHRS digital content for online presence and accessibility. Coordinate regular review of content on the SHRS website (and its successors). Create and revise online content, draft changes for approval, and make appropriate updates via a content management system. Serve as SHRS subject matter expert for the SitePublish website tool.
• In consultation with leadership and subject matter experts, develop and manage a communication editorial calendar. Determine and document weekly, monthly, and annual communication needs for SHRS. Document audiences and available/appropriate methods of communicating with each audience. Create, implement, maintain, and evaluate internal communication plans and campaigns. Maintain additional calendar views for other key system offices.
• Collect information necessary to develop communication strategies, and to compose and draft communications. Research HR topics, read applicable documentation, review state and federal mandates, and interview subject matter experts.
• Serve as a member of the SHRS Organizational Effectiveness/Training & Development (OE/TD) team, providing input and feedback on team projects and assistance as needed. Participate in organizational effectiveness work group projects, including: writing and sending related communications, project development, and focus group facilitation.
• Utilize desktop publishing and graphic design programs and skills to create, revise, update, and edit HR published materials, handouts, fact sheets, small posters, or other print materials. Create, select, or manipulate graphics for use in print, email, and online. Ensure alignment to University of Illinois System brand identity.
• Develop subject matter expertise in other assigned areas of concentration and carry out project activities related to those areas, including issue analysis, data collection, workgroup preparation and participation, vendor/agency relations, and stakeholder engagement.
• Draft written materials and communications for employee recognition programs such as DELTA, PSLA and annual service recognition. Create Airtable forms for RSVPs/catering/lodging for events. Draft and send communications for employee engagement events with senior leadership, such as Updates & Conversation.
• Develop and post social media content (e.g. Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.).
• Other duties as assigned such as serve as a back-up for and/or assist OD/T&D staff with employee engagement and recognition events, retreat planning, etc. and monitor, assign, and answer University Service Desk (USD) cases (questions from employees and units), provide first level review and respond, or direct questions, appropriately.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in marketing, business administration, communications, public relations, or a closely related field. One (1) year (12 months) of professional work experience in marketing, public relations, communications, brand management, or a related professional area.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Labor Relations, Sociology, Psychology, English, Rhetoric, Journalism, Law.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
• Skill in using Microsoft Office suite (e.g. Word, Excel, PowerPoint), including proficiency with Excel for sorting and filtering email lists, as well as proficiency with an Internet browser and performing Internet searches.
• Strong written communication skills, including excellent writing, grammar, and proofreading to compose documents that reflect high professional standards.
• Skill in creating and implementing communication plans; as well as experience writing professional email and other communications to a variety of audiences, which may include correspondence, reports, presentations, memos, brochures, web/online/digital content, and other written material.
• Knowledge of human resources or employee benefits plan concepts, which may include experience working in HR/benefits or performing HR/benefits duties.
• Ability to read and understand human resources policies and procedures, benefit plan documents, and/or other legal documents.
• Knowledge of principles and procedures, federal and state laws, rules, and/or regulations affecting public human resources administration and/or benefits plan management; ability to develop a broad knowledge of those impacting the University of Illinois.
• Knowledge of scheduling and planning events such as seminars, fairs, or expos.
• Strong interpersonal skills that reflect professional courtesy, diplomacy, and a collaborative approach to develop and maintain effective work relationships.
• Skill in identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information, data, and documents appropriately.
• Ability to work independently, exercise good judgment, attention to detail, and discretion in the performance of all work assignments.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize work accordingly to meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of or willingness to learn basic HTML and content management system(s), such as SitePublish.
• Knowledge of or willingness to learn digital accessibility best practices to be applied to all documents and web content.
• Knowledge of or willingness to learn basic graphic design (i.e., formatting, layout, print and online graphics) and desktop publishing software, such as Adobe Creative Suite (i.e., InDesign, PhotoShop) and Canva.

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 5004 - Marketing Associate position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after 10/14/2024. Salary range is $60,000-$65,000, salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the full range for a position.

Sponsorship for work authorization is not available for this position.

For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the SUCSS web site at https://www.sucss.illinois.gov/pages/classspec/default.aspx .

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on September 20, 2024. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact Johanna Mayer at johannam@uillinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify .

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal , or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing accessibility@illinois.edu .

Requisition ID: 1026792
Job Category: Administrative
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu

This job has expired.