A Communications or Public Relations Specialist coordinates internal and external communications for a company or organization. Provides information to employees on company activities, such as the launch of a new product or a community service initiative. Writes and edits public communications; develops media contacts and prepares material for press and media distribution; monitors media coverage. May assist with events planning.
This is a part-time position ( 22.5 hours per-week. 3 full days per week)
Pay:
$22.00 per hour
Campus:
Evanston Approximate start date: 7/21/2026 Approximate end date: 10/30/2026
Temporary Job Description:
The Communications Assistant provides high-level communications support and a top-notch, welcoming experience to IPR faculty, students, staff, and visitors on the Evanston campus. The Assistant will provide a variety of specialized communications support and coordination of a variety of processes and logistics associated with the Institute's internal and external communications.
Tasks will include assisting with:
Social media accounts (drafting and/or editing posts); Editorial projects (drafting and/or editing articles, documents, blog posts, etc.); Photos and website (editing and sizing photos, editing and posting online articles); Event logistics (organizing, setting-up, and cleaning up); Archival materials (scanning and filing documents); Moving to new offices; and other projects as assigned. Excellent attention to detail, the ability to complete follow-up tasks completely and competently, and the ability to work methodically and stay focused during tedious tasks is also important. The ideal candidate is proficient in MS Office, particularly Outlook, Word, and Excel. Skills in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop and InDesign), content management systems like Cascade, ), content management systems like Cascade, taking/editing photos and/or videos, and knowledge of AP Stylebook would be a plus. The Communications Assistant must have a great attitude, demonstrate initiative, possess a strong work ethic as well as being solutions oriented, collaborative, and coachable. The team member will excel in a hard-working, small-team environment. This position requires a high degree of professionalism, excellent written and verbal skills, as well as the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Qualifications Required:
A bachelor's degree in communications or journalism or the equivalent combination of education, training and experience; Strong writing and editing skills; High level of organizational skills and outstanding attention to detail; Diligent and can work independently; Experience working with confidential information; Professionalism; and Flexibility, adaptability in a fast-paced, small-team environment.
Software Required:
MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
Software Preferred:
Adobe CS Suite (Photoshop and InDesign) Content Management Systems (Cascade) Consumer Relationship Management Software (Salesforce or Zoho) In addition to salary, this temporary position is eligible for paid time off and paid sick time in accordance with Northwestern University policies. This position is not eligible for other benefits offered to regular staff positions Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement . Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process .
