Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
Penn State Great Valley seeks an experienced and creative communications professional to serve as Assistant Director of Communications. This role supports strategic marketing and communications initiatives for Penn State Great Valley while serving as the primary communications lead for Penn State’s Continuing Education and Workforce Development.
The Assistant Director will manage and grow social media presence and strategy for both Penn State's Continuing Education and Workforce Development programs and Penn State Great Valley. The position will lead the development of news stories, marketing copy, and web content for Penn State’s Continuing Education and Workforce Development, as well as contribute to broader storytelling and marketing needs across Penn State Great Valley.
This role requires a strong storyteller who understands digital engagement, can translate complex academic and workforce initiatives into compelling content, and can work collaboratively with program leaders, faculty, and marketing partners.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Social Media Strategy and Management
Serve as the primary manager of both Continuing Education and Workforce Development's and Penn State Great Valley’s official social media accounts, developing and executing strategies to increase engagement, visibility, and brand alignment.
Develop and maintain a strategic social media content calendar across platforms including LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and other relevant channels.
Monitor performance metrics and analytics to evaluate effectiveness and optimize campaigns.
Ensure social media content reflects Penn State brand standards and aligns with institutional messaging.
Engage with audiences and monitor comments, messages, and community interactions when appropriate.
Content Development and Storytelling
Serve as lead writer and editor for news stories, marketing copy, and web content related to Continuing Education and Workforce Development.
Develop compelling stories highlighting workforce programs, partnerships, industry impact, and learner success.
Contribute news stories and feature content for Penn State Great Valley’s website, marketing initiatives, and digital channels.
Produce marketing copy for program promotion including digital campaigns, emails, and brochures.
Web Content Management
Maintain and update web content for Continuing Education and Workforce Development programs within Penn State Great Valley’s website ecosystem.
Collaborate with program leaders to ensure web pages are accurate, engaging, and optimized for prospective learners and partners.
Apply SEO best practices and accessibility standards to digital content.
Partner with Continuing Education and Workforce Development leadership, faculty, and staff to identify content opportunities and develop messaging aligned with workforce development goals.
Coordinate with Penn State’s broader communications and marketing network to ensure brand consistency and amplify stories.
Additional Responsibilities
Assist with campaign planning for program launches, events, and initiatives.
Contribute to special projects and communications initiatives for Penn State Great Valley.
Key Competencies
Strategic digital communication
Storytelling and content development
Social media strategy and analytics
Collaboration and stakeholder engagement
Project management and organization
Brand stewardship
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Degree in communications, marketing, journalism, public relations, or related field.
Experience in communications, marketing, digital media, or related roles.
Demonstrated experience managing multiple organizational social media accounts.
Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills for digital and marketing contexts.
Experience with web content management systems.
Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a collaborative environment.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Experience in higher education communications or workforce development marketing.
Familiarity with social media analytics tools and digital marketing platforms.
Experience writing news stories, marketing copy, and web content for diverse audiences.
Understanding of SEO and digital content strategy.
Familiarity with best practices in digital communications accessibility
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This position offers a flexible work arrangement that combines remote and on-campus work. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $51,000.00 - $74,000.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.