Project Officer (Communications)

• Help elevate our university's reputation for research excellence and impact.
• Foster relationships and drive communication projects forward.
• Expand your skillset, enrich your experience and broaden your perspective.
• Fixed Term Position until April 26

Join our dynamic team at the forefront of research and innovation. As part of the Research and Innovation Division, you'll have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects that drive communication excellence and impact.

Be challenged and imagine with us

We are seeking a skilled Project Officer (Communications) to support our Senior Manager, Research Communications and Change, in delivering communication initiatives aligned with the priorities of the Research and Innovation Division and the University. The successful candidate will collaborate with stakeholders to plan, implement and manage strategic communication projects that help keep our researchers and partners informed and engaged in the work of the University. In this role you will:

• Collaborate with stakeholders to develop, translate and maintain fit-for-purpose content across digital communication platforms, including the Division’s internal resource portal and the Research section of the University website.
• Independently research, plan and develop stakeholder presentations, internal news items, marketing collateral and other strategic communication tools.
• Develop and maintain strategic communication project plans, including status, risks, mitigation strategies and outcomes.
• Ensure the timely delivery of strategic communication projects that meet desired outcomes.
• Ensure accuracy, relevance and strategic alignment of all published material.
• Provide support and advice to internal stakeholders throughout project lifecycles.
• Develop and maintain effective relationships with stakeholders across the Division and relevant units within the University to deliver on project needs.
• Design and develop communication collateral in accordance with university brand guidelines and best-practice strategic communication principles. 

You will inspire us with your exceptional writing skills, your experience with digital content management systems, your marketing know-how and organisational abilities.

This Fixed Term position is full time until April 2026 at a HEW 6 Higher Education Level and will be based at Callaghan Campus (Awabakal and Worimi land).

About our University

The University of Newcastle stands as a global leader distinguished by a commitment to equity and excellence. Our vision is to be a world-leading University for our regions and creating a better future for our regions and the globe. Underpinned by this vision and our values of excellence, equity, engagement and sustainability, the University of Newcastle’s Looking Ahead Strategic Plan 2020-2025 outlines the University’s commitment to delivering an exceptional student experience and serving our communities. 

For more information click here – Our Uni. 

About the Unit

The Research & Innovation Division promotes and enhances the University's strong and vibrant research culture by attracting, training and supporting researchers and innovators in their efforts to solve real-world problems. 

What we offer

In addition to working for a university that is breaking boundaries, discovering new ways of thinking and cementing a place as a global leader, we offer a range of benefits to our employees to ensure you balance your commitments, stay healthy and work effectively. 

These include: 

• Remuneration from $90,316 - $99,655 p.a. + superannuation, commensurate with skills and experience
• Flexible working arrangements (in line with the University’s Flexible Work Policy)
• 17% super and salary packaging
• Additional University holiday days, generous personal and parental leave, annual leave loading and an additional purchased leave scheme
• Discounts for private health insurance, gym memberships, software, travel and more
• Wellbeing programs 

Your next steps 

Please visit here for a guide on how to apply for a role. 

If viewing this on a job board other than the University's please click ‘Apply’ to reach the University's website, where a copy of the Position Description can be accessed. Please download a copy before commencing your application. 

Your application must include: 

• Your resume
• A cover letter outlining your motivation to apply for this opportunity
• A statement addressing the Essential Criteria listed below: 

1. A degree in Journalism, Communications, Media or related discipline plus subsequent relevant experience - or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and/or education and training.
2. Exceptional writing skills including the ability to write for different audiences, the ability to translate complex information into user-friendly content, as well as strong editing and proofreading skills.
3. Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills including the capacity to build and maintain effective relationships and influence for positive outcomes.
4. Demonstrated ability to align project work with short, medium and long-term needs and to organise and manage time accordingly.
5. Proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications and experience with digital content management platforms. Design skills advantageous.
6. Demonstrated ability operate effectively under pressure and in a fast-paced environment, including in a team environment and independently with minimal supervision.
7. Proven ability to effectively and respectfully engage with stakeholders across all levels of an organisation and maintain positive relationships critical to the success of strategic communication initiatives.
8. Knowledge of and experience in adhering to workplace policies and procedures in the areas of work health safety, equity, diversity and promoting a respectful workplace culture.

To ensure that your application receives full consideration, it's important to address the selection criteria outlined in the application process. This helps us better understand your qualifications and suitability for the role. Should you have any questions or need clarification on the criteria, please don't hesitate to reach out. We appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to reviewing your application. 

Please upload your Cover Letter and response to the requested Criteria as one PDF document.

Your Cover Letter and Response to the Essential Criteria should not exceed 4 pages (approximately 2,000 words). 

For specific position enquiries, please contact Carina Bates, Senior Manager, Research Communications and Change, on (02) 4921-6265 or via email Carina.Bates@newcastle.edu.au.

Having Difficulties? Please reach out to us: employment@newcastle.edu.au.

Closing date: Tuesday 30th April 2024 at 11.59pm AEST

We are excited to be Looking Ahead with you

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