Position Overview
The Institute of Child Development (ICD) in the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) seeks a motivated, organized, and results-oriented communications associate to support the work of the ICD academic unit, the Center for Early Education and Development (CEED) and the Child Development Laboratory School (CDLS). The communications associate reports to ICD's Director of Marketing and Communications and will work primarily to support the development and execution of written, visual, and web-based communications. The communications associate will work collaboratively with CEHD, ICD, CEED and CDLS colleagues to manage ongoing projects, assist in identifying communications and marketing needs, and ensure effective and timely communication. The person in this position must manage multiple projects simultaneously, use discretion with confidential issues and data, utilize high-level organizational skills, work productively with a diverse team of colleagues, and interpret a wide range of communication styles.

This position is based on campus. Per UMN policy, work may be done remotely when appropriate and approved by your manager. All UMN employees are expected to follow applicable public health and safety procedures. The estimated starting salary for this position is $60,000, depending on qualifications.

Job Responsibilities

Writing/editing (30%)

* Write and edit blog posts and feature stories to promote the work and accomplishments of ICD, CEED, and CDLS faculty, students, alumni, and staff
* Write and edit content for internal and external newsletters, departmental and college publications, and internal messaging
* Copyedit, proofread, and fact check content to ensure ICD communications and marketing materials are accurate, represent department voice, and meet brand standards set by the department, college and University

Mass email support (30%)

* Format ICD, CEED, and CDLS newsletters and announcements in Salesforce Marketing Cloud
* Maintain and update data extensions and listservs, submit requests for email marketing lists from UM Foundation, and ensure ICD is abiding by all mass email policies and regulations
* Review Salesforce analytics and provide regular reports or updates on email performance

Website maintenance (20%)

* Update web content for ICD, CEED, CDLS and department-affiliated websites, including intranet, lab sites, academic program google sites
* Track annual calendar of web updates and communicate directly with ICD faculty, staff, and students for regular maintenance
* Support the research and development of web design, SEO, and content for ICD, CEED, and CDLS websites

Multimedia support (15%)

* Develop promotional/recruitment materials in Adobe Creative Cloud or Canva software
* Maintain a photo and video library for ICD communications and marketing efforts
* Assist with social media content planning and calendar

Event support (5%)
* Provide occasional direct support for online and in-person events, and implement event communication plans to drive successful attendance and participation

Required Qualifications

* BA/BS in marketing, communications, public relations, or a related field plus at least two years of experience or a combination of related education and work experience to equal at least six years
* Strong written and verbal communication skills for a variety of audiences
* Excellent organizational skills and the ability to determine priorities and manage multiple projects simultaneously
* Knowledge of graphic design principles and experience using design software
* Familiarity with web content management systems (CMS) and email marketing platforms
* Ability to collaborate effectively with people from a variety of communities, backgrounds, and identities.
* Demonstrated commitment to fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace

Preferred Qualifications

* Experience with Adobe Creative Cloud and/or Canva
* Experience with Drupal web CMS
* Experience with social media management
* Related employment experience in higher education

Department Overview
The Institute of Child Development (ICD) at the University of Minnesota has long been a premier center for scholarship, teaching, and outreach devoted to the understanding and fostering of child development. Founded in 1925, the Institute is one of the oldest departments studying children's development in the United States. From its inception, a key tenet of the department has been to "give away" child psychology. This philosophy has created an environment rich with collaborations, new ideas, and exciting interdisciplinary work. The ICD is housed within the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD) and has an undergraduate program within the College of Liberal Arts (CLA).

College Overview
The College of Education and Human Development (CEHD), the third largest college and the University, contributes to a just and sustainable future through engagement with the local and global communities to enhance human learning and development at all stages of the life span. We know diversity is necessary to do our best work and foster our humanity. That's why the CEHD community is collectively dedicated to cultivating an inclusive and equitable environment, embracing and celebrating all identities of our students, staff, and faculty. These values are also a moral imperative requiring continuous proactive measures and a firm stance against prejudice, discrimination, and systemic injustice.

Working at the University

At the University of Minnesota, you'll find a flexible work environment and supportive colleagues who are interested in lifelong learning. We prioritize work-life balance, allowing you to invest in the future of your career and in your life outside of work.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Please visit the for more information regarding benefits.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U:

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).