"STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATE II - CAFNR RESEARCH NEWS STRATEGIST"

Hiring Department

College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Marketing and Communications

Job Description

As part of CAFNR’s Marketing & Communications team, you’ll play a key role in showcasing the research mission of our land-grant university—spanning teaching, discovery and outreach. From faculty and graduate student grants to impactful findings, publications and honors, you’ll help tell the story of how CAFNR research is shaping the future of agriculture, food and natural resources.

This position covers research activities both on campus and across the state through the Missouri Agricultural Experiment Station, offering a dynamic opportunity to connect with scientists and communities statewide.

Key Responsibilities:

• Discover and develop compelling news stories about CAFNR research, grants, publications and innovations.
• Interview faculty, staff, graduate students, and postdocs to uncover the human stories behind the science.
• Write, edit and/or manage approvals for research-focused content across platforms
• Create engaging web and social media posts to amplify research news.
• Design and edit bi-weekly newsletter highlighting CAFNR research activities.
• Oversee design and edit content for research flyers, brochures and displays.
• Develop story slates, edit and oversee design of CAFNR’s biennial research magazine.
• Attend and photograph research-focused events on and off campus.
• Write brief stories celebrating faculty awards and honors.
• Craft impact statements that position CAFNR research on the national stage.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with research administrators and faculty.
• As with all positions, involvement with other duties and responsibilities may be expected in order to support the mission and purpose of the University of Missouri.

Shift

Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Minimum Qualifications

A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience and at least 2 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, English or related field and 3-5 years of experience.

You’re a skilled communicator, passionate about science and a self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. You love turning complex ideas into accessible, engaging narratives and understand the power of storytelling to drive awareness and impact. If you’re curious, creative and committed to making science matter, we’d love to hear from you.

Anticipated Hiring Range

The anticipated hiring range for this position has been established as $21.71-$30.05/hourly.

Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual’s particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements. Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Grade: GGS-009
University Title: STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATE II

To review the University of Missouri’s Staff Compensation Structure you can view the Job Code detail page. Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

Application Materials

MU Application, Resume, cover letter, and three writing samples.

Benefit Eligibility

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.