Events and Communications Specialist

The Senior Vice President for Health Sciences Research Unit (SVPHS Research Unit) at University of Utah Health seeks a proactive Events and Communications Specialist (Research Development Associate I) to lead the planning and execution of high-impact events and support strategic communications to elevate research at University of Utah Health. This role offers a unique opportunity to engage with exciting, mission-driven events across a wide range of research disciplines at the University of Utah Health, helping to amplify the visibility and impact of groundbreaking research. While the primary focus will be on event planning, the position also includes secondary responsibilities in communications and marketing.

The Events and Communications Specialist will be a part of the Research Program Development Team in the SVPHS Research Unit, which oversees the development and implementation of strategic research initiatives and other research capacity-building activities. To learn more about the other SVPHS Research Unit strategic research initiatives, please visit https://uofuhealth.utah.edu/research/areas-initiatives/. The Events and Communications Specialist will report to the Events and Communications Manager in the Research Program Development Team.

This is a full-time position and is eligible for limited telework in a hybrid telework & in-person environment.

Responsibilities

1. Work with the Research Program Development team and broader SVPHS Research Unit to organize and execute Initiative events such as monthly seminar series, educational trainings, and one-off events.
2. Support the work of the Events and Communications Manager on large-scale initiative events such as annual symposia.
3. Work will include the coordination of catering, creation of registration forms, compiling speaker information, scheduling speaker travel, coordinating external guest visits, and promotional material development.
4. Support the production of initiative or unit newsletters and communications with materials provided by Research Program Development staff.
5. Create initiative materials, such as social media posts and event flyers, including basic formatting, layouts, and copy-editing.
6. Manage initiative social media channels using materials provided by Research Program Development staff and Initiative leadership on an as needed basis.
7. Update initiative websites as directed by the Events and Communications Manager.
8. Provide additional support to Research Program Development Team for tasks and small projects on an as needed basis.
9. Apply problem-solving skills to variety of challenges. Some resolutions may require some analysis and interpretation, requiring innovation and creativity.

This job description is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Work Environment and Level of Frequency typically required

Nearly Continuously: Office environment.

Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be required

Nearly Continuously: Sitting, hearing, listening, talking. Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking. Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience). Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Preferences

1. Experience with event planning is strongly preferred.
2. Experience with communications/marketing.
3. University experience.
4. Project management and organizational skills.
5. Willingness and ability to work flexibly and on short notice to meet tight deadlines.