Communications Specialist - College of Medicine - University of Florida

Communications Specialist

The College of Medicine is seeking a Communications Specialist to manage the communications needs of the UF Department of Surgery, UF Department of Urology, and UF Health Congenital Heart Center. Reporting to the UF Health Communications’ College of Medicine team, this role supports the clinical, educational, and research goals set by departmental leadership through the creation of compelling content across various platforms. The ideal candidate is a strong, versatile writer with exceptional organizational and creative skills, adept at producing content for print, digital media, and social media. This individual will be responsible for developing and managing content for departmental websites, social media accounts, and print and electronic newsletters. By crafting engaging communications, the specialist will help enhance the departments' reputation and engagement among key stakeholders. If you have a passion for communications and excel in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, we invite you to apply.

About This Role

Communication Strategies Development

• Create communication strategies to elevate the reputation of the UF Health Congenital Heart Center, the UF Department of Surgery, and the UF Department of Urology.
• Cultivate close working relationships with faculty and staff to identify story opportunities and stay updated on departmental activities and objectives.
• Collaborate with UF Health Communications to ensure compliance with policies and maintain consistent branding.
• Regularly communicate with leadership to provide project updates and ensure alignment with department goals.

Content Creation and Management 

• Generate content for the Department of Surgery, the Department of Urology, and the Congenital Heart Center, with a focus on patient stories, faculty/staff accolades, and key announcements for websites and various UF Health and UF publications.
• Oversee social media accounts, developing engaging posts, ensuring consistent posting, tracking performance metrics, and adjusting strategies as needed.
• Manage the Department of Surgery’s quarterly newsletter, The Stitch. 
• Produce a newsletter for Urology, sharing department highlights and achievements. 
• Educate faculty on social media policies, ensuring compliance with patient confidentiality and UF Health guidelines.

About COM's Communication

The UF College of Medicine's Communications team is dedicated to enhancing the college's visibility and reputation through strategic storytelling and innovative communication initiatives. This team focuses on delivering compelling content that informs and engages various audiences, including faculty, staff, students, alumni, donors, and the broader community.

The mission of COM's Communications team is to support the college's goals by promoting its achievements in research, education, patient care, and community service. By leveraging diverse communication channels, including digital platforms, print publications, and social media, the team aims to foster a strong connection with stakeholders and elevate the overall impact of the College of Medicine.

For more information about COM's Communications, visit the UF College of Medicine's Communications.

We Offer Exceptional Benefits

• Low-cost State Health Plans: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life and Disability Insurance
• Generous retirement options to secure your future
• Comprehensive Paid Time Off Package (including 11 paid holidays, as well as paid family, sick, and vacation leave)
• Exceptional Personal and Professional Development Opportunities (UF Training & Organization Development including leadership development, LinkedIn Learning, amongst other opportunities)
• Tuition Assistance (UF Employee Education Program)
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Eligible Employer

About the City of Gainesville

Discover Gainesville, Florida, home to the University of Florida College of Medicine, where modern attractions and natural beauty harmonize to create an exceptional living environment. Enjoy a low cost of living, no state income tax, outstanding public and private schools, and pleasant winters in a community that passionately supports Division I NCAA sports (Go Gators!). Explore scenic bike trails, lively farmer's markets, and a thriving local brewery scene. Immerse yourself in over 30 miles of biking and hiking trails, encounter diverse wildlife in Florida State Parks, and experience thrilling adventures in freshwater springs. Gainesville's central location offers easy access to both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, providing stunning beaches, nature preserves, and world-renowned theme parks within a day's drive. Become part of our vibrant community, where the perfect blend of opportunities awaits. Learn more about what Gainesville has to offer at Visit Gainesville.

$50,000 - $60,000

A bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization and one year of appropriate experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

The ideal candidate will possess: 

• Excellent reporting and writing skills.
• Familiarity with health care and/or science writing in an academic medical setting. Experience reporting and writing on medical and scientific topics for a lay audience.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Demonstrated ease with learning new programs. Familiarity with the use of major social media platforms.
• Superior spelling, punctuation, and grammatical skills. Proficient in Associated Press style.
• Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate work assignments independently.
• Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team towards departmental objectives.
• Master’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization.

To be considered, please upload the following documents with your application:

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Writing samples/portfolio
• Contact information for three professional references 

If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call 352-392-2477 or the Florida Relay System at 800-955-8771 (TDD).

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.