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Harvard University

Digital Communications Associate

Closes:

Salary: $70,000 – $73,000 per year

1,243

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard Graduate School of Education?

The Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) is a diverse community of learners, teachers, and employees who are passionate about changing the world through education and striving for maximum impact in the field of education.

Many choose to work at the Harvard Graduate School of Education because they believe in our mission and are excited by our vision for the future. We have a reputation as a great place to work, for our excellent leadership, and we are a strong community that values diversity. For more information about HGSE, its programs, research, and faculty, please visit: www.gse.harvard.edu.

Job Description

Job Summary: The Digital Communications Associate supports the day-to-day content and communications work that keeps an exciting new initiative visible, connected, and active between major convenings, extending its reach and impact. Reporting to the Communications Lead, this role manages the initiative's Substack, social channels, and content calendar, and plays a hands-on role in creating and managing multimedia content that reflects the initiative's voice and audience.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

  • Package video, events, and research updates into shareable content.
  • Produce podcast and video segments that complement and/or amplify the Substack.
  • Set up and manage a dedicated Substack, helping to determine publishing cadence, formatting, and collecting metrics to document subscriber growth.
  • Manage subscriber or audience growth efforts including outreach and cross-promotion with other HGSE initiatives and coordinate collabs.
  • Suggest, draft, collate, and edit posts from the team and faculty into a consistent voice.
  • Oversee the day-to-day social channels, track performance, and report on what resonates.
  • Own and maintain the content calendar to ensure steady and reliable cadence.
  • Support convenings from a communications angle including capturing photo, audio, and video content and drafting recaps (may require hours beyond regular workday when necessary)
  • Draft short-form written content beyond the Substack, e.g., bios, web copy updates, or event descriptions; proofread and light copyedit communications as needed.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in communications, journalism, media, or a related field.
  • Minimum 2 years of relevant experience in content creation, social media, or communications.
  • Experience with Substack, newsletter platforms, or content management systems.
  • Experience with audio and video production tools (e.g., Descript, Canva, Adobe Suite, or similar).
  • Able to work occasional OT, including nights and weekends to support events.
  • Candidates should submit a cover letter and resume as a single PDF document. Any applicant wishing to be considered for this position should indicate that they meet all of the basic requirements in either the cover letter or resume.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

  • You have grown an audience for something on your own.
  • You reach for new tools fast and are collaborative in your process.
  • You can be a one-person content operation when you need to be.
  • Strong writing and editing skills with a clear, adaptable voice.
  • Experience managing social media channels and using analytics to inform strategy.
  • Highly organized and proactive; able to hold a calendar and stay ahead of deadlines without close supervision.

Additional Information

  • Appointment End Date: 1 year from date of hire
  • Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
  • Compensation Range/Rate (including Shift Differential if applicable): $70,000 - $73,000 commensurate with experience
  • Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
  • Pre-Employment Screening: Identity

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University's Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 055. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

  • Generous paid time off including parental leave
  • Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one
  • Retirement plans with university contributions
  • Wellbeing and mental health resources
  • Support for families and caregivers
  • Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement
  • Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Job details

Title
Digital Communications Associate
Employer
Harvard University
Location
Cambridge
Published
Aug 18, 2026
Closes:
Oct 17, 2026
Job type
Full time, Staff / Administration
Field
Communications, Marketing, and Public Affairs
Salary

Salary: $70,000 – $73,000 per year

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Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What are the minimum qualifications for the Digital Communications Associate role?

To qualify, you need a bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, media, or a related field and at least 2 years of relevant experience in content creation, social media, or communications. You must also have hands-on experience with Substack, newsletter platforms, or content management systems, plus proficiency in audio and video production tools such as Descript, Canva, or Adobe Suite. See more administration jobs and higher ed jobs to benchmark your background.

📝How do I apply for the Digital Communications Associate position?

Submit a cover letter and resume as a single PDF document. In either document, you should clearly indicate that you meet all of the basic requirements. Use the cover letter template and resume template to structure your application before submitting.

💰What is the salary and work schedule for this role?

The position offers a salary range of $70,000 to $73,000 per year, commensurate with experience. It is a 35-hour-per-week role with a one-year appointment from the date of hire. For more career context, visit higher ed career advice.

🌍Does Harvard University provide visa sponsorship for this position?

No, Harvard is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Applicants must meet work location sponsorship requirements before employment. Learn more about employment at Ivy League schools.

🎙️What are the main responsibilities and platforms in this Digital Communications Associate job?

You will manage Substack, social channels, and the content calendar; package video, events, and research updates into shareable content; produce podcast and video segments; and draft, edit, and collate posts from the team and faculty. You will also support convenings with photo, audio, and video capture and track performance using social media analytics. Explore similar higher ed jobs.

💻Is this Digital Communications Associate role hybrid or fully remote?

Work format details indicate this is a hybrid position: some duties can be performed at a non-Harvard location, but the schedule and location are set by the department based on operational needs. When not working at a Harvard-designated location, hybrid employees must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University's employment outside Massachusetts policy. See university jobs for more options.

About the employer

Harvard University Jobs

Harvard University

4.0 Star Employer Ranking

Harvard University offers a diverse range of job and work opportunities across various categories, reflecting its status as a leading academic and research institution. These opportunities cater to different skill sets, academic backgrounds, and career stages. Harvard University Academic Positions - click here . Harvard University Staff Jobs - click here . The main types of jobs and work opportunities at Harvard: 1. Faculty and Academic Positions Tenure-Track Faculty : These roles include assistant, associate, and full professors across Harvard’s schools (e.g., Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Business School). Faculty engage in teaching, research, and service. Qualifications typically include a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree, a strong research portfolio, and teaching experience. Openings vary by department and school, with competitive hiring processes. Non-Tenure-Track Faculty : Includes lecturers, preceptors, and visiting professors. These roles focus primarily on teaching or short-term research projects and may require a Ph.D. or significant expertise in the field. Research Appointments : Postdoctoral fellowships, research associates, and scientists work on cutting-edge research in fields like medicine, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. These positions often require advanced degrees and are funded through grants or specific research programs. 2. Administrative and Professional Staff Administrative Roles : These include positions in academic administration (e.g., deans’ offices, registrar, admissions), student services, and program management. Examples include academic program coordinators, admissions officers, and financial aid advisors. These roles often require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and relevant experience. Professional Staff : Harvard employs professionals in areas like human resources, finance, communications, development (fundraising), and alumni relations. Examples include HR specialists, financial analysts, and marketing managers. These positions typically require specialized skills or certifications. Executive and Leadership Roles : Senior positions like directors, department heads, or executive administrators oversee operations in specific units or schools. These roles demand extensive experience and leadership skills. 3. Research and Laboratory Staff Research Support Staff : Includes lab managers, research technicians, and data analysts who support faculty and postdoctoral researchers in labs across disciplines like biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine. These roles often require technical skills, such as proficiency in lab equipment or data analysis software. Clinical Research Roles : At Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals, clinical research coordinators and specialists support medical and health-related studies. These positions may require certifications like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training. 4. Technical and IT Staff Information Technology : Harvard employs IT professionals for roles like systems administrators, software developers, cybersecurity analysts, and data scientists to support its technological infrastructure. These positions require expertise in areas like cloud computing, AI, or network management. Library and Information Services : Harvard’s extensive library system hires librarians, archivists, and digital resource specialists. These roles often require a master’s degree in library science or related fields. 5. Support and Operations Staff Facilities and Operations : Includes roles in maintenance, custodial services, groundskeeping, and security. These positions ensure the smooth operation of Harvard’s campus and may not require advanced degrees but often need specific training or certifications. Dining and Hospitality : Harvard’s dining services employ chefs, food service workers, and catering staff to support campus dining halls and events. Administrative Support : Roles like executive assistants, office managers, and receptionists provide critical support to departments and faculty. 6. Student and Temporary Opportunities Student Employment : Harvard offers on-campus jobs for students, including work-study positions in libraries, dining halls, labs, and administrative offices. These roles are typically part-time and designed to accommodate academic schedules. Temporary and Seasonal Work : Temporary roles, such as event staff or short-term project assistants, are available for non-students as well. These are often listed through Harvard’s temporary staffing services. 7. Medical and Healthcare Roles Clinical and Healthcare Staff : Through Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals (e.g., Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital), opportunities exist for physicians, nurses, medical technicians, and other healthcare professionals. These roles require medical licenses or certifications. Public Health Professionals : The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health employs researchers, policy analysts, and program managers focused on global health initiatives. 8. Creative and Media Roles Arts and Culture : Harvard’s museums (e.g., Harvard Art Museums) and cultural institutions hire curators, educators, and exhibition staff. The American Repertory Theater employs artists, stage managers, and production staff. Communications and Media : Roles in writing, graphic design, social media, and public relations support Harvard’s outreach and branding efforts. Key Characteristics of Harvard Jobs Diversity of Roles : Harvard’s workforce spans academic, administrative, technical, and operational functions, with opportunities for both entry-level and highly specialized professionals. Competitive Benefits : Harvard offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and professional development. Faculty and staff also gain access to Harvard’s libraries, museums, and cultural events. Global Impact : Many roles, especially in research and public health, contribute to global advancements in knowledge and policy. Location : Most positions are based in Cambridge or Boston, Massachusetts, with some remote or hybrid options, particularly for administrative and IT roles. How to Find Opportunities Harvard Careers Portal : The primary resource for job listings is Harvard’s Human Resources website (hr.harvard.edu/jobs), which lists openings for faculty, staff, and temporary roles. School-Specific Listings : Each Harvard school (e.g., Harvard College, Harvard Law School) may post specialized positions on their websites. Networking and Referrals : Many academic and research roles are filled through professional networks or direct outreach to departments. X Platform : Searching for “Harvard University jobs” on X can reveal real-time discussions, job postings, or employee experiences, though these should be verified through official channels. Additional Notes Qualifications : Requirements vary widely. Faculty roles typically need advanced degrees, while support roles may prioritize experience or specific skills. Work Environment : Harvard emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and collaboration, with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement. Application Process : Most positions require an online application through Harvard’s careers portal, including a resume, cover letter, and sometimes additional materials like teaching statements or research portfolios.

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