"Trademark Licensing Specialist, Marketing & Communications (2874)"

Idaho State University, established in 1901, is a Carnegie-classified doctoral research and teaching institution, with a culture built on trust, compassion, stability, and hope. ISU serves over 12,000 students in Pocatello, Meridian, Twin Falls, and Idaho Falls. Students and faculty at ISU are leading the way in cutting-edge research and innovative solutions. We are proud to offer exceptional academics nestled in the grand, natural beauty of the West. We invite you to apply to be a part of our University community!

Job Description

The Trademark Licensing Specialist plays a crucial supporting role in the university's trademark licensing program, with a primary focus on the partnership with the Athletics Department. This position will serve as the primary brand compliance liaison between the Office of Marketing and Communications and the Athletics Department and work in partnership with the Director of Equipment Operations. The trademark licensing specialist is responsible for ensuring the proper and consistent application of the university's marks on all athletic gear, apparel, and uniforms. The Trademark Licensing Specialist will utilize the university's licensing management platform, typically administered through The Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC).

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship at this time.

Key Responsibilities

Athletics Brand Liaison and Compliance:

• Serve as the day-to-day point of contact for the Athletics Department (coaches, equipment managers, marketing staff, etc.) regarding brand use on gear, uniforms, equipment, and promotional materials.
• Provide expert guidance to Athletics on current brand standards, logo usage, color palette, and licensing policies to maintain brand integrity across all athletic programs.
• Review and approve design submissions for all team uniforms, sideline apparel, practice gear, and branded athletic equipment, ensuring strict adherence to university and conference regulations.
• Work directly with approved athletic apparel licensees to facilitate the timely submission and approval of designs specific to the university's teams.
• Assist with special projects, including Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) initiatives, as needed.

Licensing System Management (CLC Focus):

• Assist in managing and processing design submissions within the university's licensing management system (CLC's Brand Manager platform).
• Ensure all necessary documentation, including design files, product descriptions, and usage intent, is accurately entered and tracked in the system.
• Monitor the approval queue, expedite time-sensitive Athletics approvals, and communicate approval status to the Brand & Trademark Licensing Manager, Athletics staff, and relevant licensees.

Collaboration and Support:

• Work in close partnership with the Brand & Trademark Licensing Manager on strategic initiatives, licensee relationships, royalty oversight and special promotions.
• Assist the Brand & Trademark Licensing Manager with auditing the marketplace and online retailers to ensure cohesive brand practices and to evaluate and pursue areas for growth.
• Serve as a resource for internal university groups and campus partners on purchasing licensed gear, apparel and promotional items from approved vendors.
• Perform other administrative and supportive duties in partnership with the Brand & Trademark Licensing Manager.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., design, business, marketing, sports management).
• At least one year experience in one or more of the areas of brand management, graphic design, licensing, or a professional collegiate athletic setting.
• Strong attention to detail to evaluate design submissions against brand standards.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience using collegiate licensing management systems (e.g., CLC Brand Manager or similar platforms).
• Experience using Adobe Creative Cloud to create brand-aligned designs.
• Experience building partnerships to achieve objectives, especially in a customer service/liaison role.
• Familiarity with intellectual property concepts (trademarks, copyrights) and licensing processes.

Additional Information

You must submit your CV/resume, cover letter, and list of three (3) professional references, including current contact information. This position will remain open until it is filled; however, priority consideration will be given to applications received on or before November 16, 2025. Salary will be between $50,000 and $55,000 per year, commensurate with education and experience. Benefits include comprehensive health, dental, and vision; life insurance; disability plan; employee assistance program (EAP); excellent retirement options and company contribution; and generous paid time off/sick leave accrual. All offers of employment are conditional pending the successful completion of a background investigation, provided by HireRight.

Idaho State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, including Veterans and individuals with disabilities.

The State of Idaho is committed to access and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, auxiliary aids and services are available upon request. If you require an accommodation at any step in our recruitment process, you are encouraged to contact (208) 334-2263 (TTY/TTD: 711), or email ada.coordinator@dhr.idaho.gov.

Preference may be given to veterans who qualify under state and federal laws and regulations.