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Position Summary:
Reporting to the Associate Director, Editorial, the Communications Officer promotes a positive image of the University through the creation of engaging, clear, consistent, and accurate content. Through network -building and close collaboration with researchers and key stakeholders, the successful candidate will research, write and disseminate a range of communications materials for various audiences on various topics in support of McGill’s strategic priorities and mission.
Primary Responsibilities:
Uncover, research, write and disseminate materials (stories, news releases, media alerts, pitches etc.) and gather associated assets, like photography, for various audiences in accordance with the University’s strategic priorities
Translate complex academic work into accessible, accurate, and engaging content for non-specialist audiences
Arrange, conduct and summarize interviews with researchers for multiplatform use to promote the impact of the university locally, nationally and globally
Secure consistent media coverage via the strategic dissemination of content
Maintain up-to-date media contact lists on our media monitoring/dissemination platform
Stay abreast of current events and emerging issues, including related news media coverage
Regularly exchange information and collaborate with colleagues, including faculty and peer communicators
Assist in the implementation of communications strategies in close collaboration with CIR colleagues
Respond to media enquiries for experts in a timely manner
Provide media training for McGill staff, students and faculty
Help boost and track McGill’s impact (as measured by key performance indicators) in select areas including research and institutional news and progress on critical files, by researching and providing advice about best practices, gaps and opportunities
Serve as a member of the Emergency Communications group, supporting the University’s communications in urgent situations where the security of the McGill community is threatened; this requires knowledge of applicable protocols and procedures, and availability outside of business hours
Other Qualifying Skills and/or Abilities
Undergraduate degree in communications or related field
Three (3) years' related experience, or more
Good understanding of the news media landscape.
Exceptional writing skills.
Proficiency in both French and English.
Thrives in a team environment.
Excellent interpersonal skills and diplomacy.
Proven sense of priority and urgency.
Ability to work under pressure with tight deadlines on multiple dossiers, in a context of changing priorities.
Knowledge of commonly used project management software and technical tools.
As one of Montreal's Top Employers, here is what we offer:
Competitive benefits package (Health, Dental, Life Insurance) (if eligible)
Defined contribution pension plan (with employer contribution up to 10%) (if eligible)
Group Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) and Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA)
Competitive vacation policy
Two (2) personal days
Two (2) floating holidays
Nine (9) "Summer Fridays" - paid days off between the St-Jean Baptiste holiday and Labour Day
Paid time off over the December holiday period
Tuition waiver for regular employees and their dependents
Up to two (2) days of remote work per week where the position permits
Before applying, please note that to work at McGill University, you must be both authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in the province of Quebec at the campus where the position is based / located.
Knowledge of English: McGill University is an English-language university where day to day duties may require English communication both verbally and in writing. The level of English required for this position has been assessed at a level # 4 on a scale of 0-4.
For a definition of our language proficiency levels, please click here.
Minimum Education and Experience:
Annual Salary:
Job Profile:
MPEX-COM2A - Internal External Relations - Professional 2Hours per Week:
Supervisor:
Position End Date (If applicable):
Deadline to Apply:
McGill University hires on the basis of merit and is strongly committed to equity and diversity within its community. We welcome applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to productively engage with diverse communities. McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated groups to self-identify. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, [email protected].
Skills Required
- Undergraduate degree in communications or related field
- Three (3) years related experience or more
- Good understanding of the news media landscape
- Exceptional writing skills
- Proficiency in both French and English
- Ability to thrive in a team environment
- Excellent interpersonal skills and diplomacy
- Proven sense of priority and urgency
- Ability to work under pressure with tight deadlines on multiple dossiers and changing priorities
- Knowledge of commonly used project management software and technical tools
What We Do
McGill University is a public research university with extensive research activities across various engineering disciplines, including civil and materials engineering, focusing on areas like construction materials and advanced manufacturing.
