Communications Specialist

Job Title

Communications Specialist

Agency

Tarleton State University

Department

University Communications

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

Stephenville, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

Tarleton State University, a distinguished Doctoral National Comprehensive University, invites applications for the position of Communications Specialist in the Department of University Communications. As part of a vibrant academic community dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and service, this role offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a university that values innovation, collaboration, and inclusive growth. Join us in advancing knowledge and transforming lives—on campus and beyond. Tarleton State University continues to grow its impact across Texas, with four distinct campuses located in Stephenville, Fort Worth, RELLIS-Bryan and Waco, along with a robust online community that extends our reach even further.

At the heart of it all is Stephenville, where Tarleton State offers a dynamic environment for faculty and staff. From a lively live music scene and numerous local festivals to rich traditions rooted in the surrounding community, Stephenville provides a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

No matter where you're located—on campus or online—you are part of a mission that transforms lives and makes a difference across the state of Texas and beyond.

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Important Immigration Information:

A Presidential proclamation issued on September 19, 2025, imposes a $100,000 fee on new H-1B petitions filed after September 21, 2025. Please be advised that Tarleton State University will NOT pay this fee. Therefore, if you need immigration sponsorship for your employment, we recommend that you consult with your private immigration counsel at your own expense to ascertain whether your current immigration status would make a potential offer of employment from Tarleton State University subject to this fee. 

  

In addition, on January 27, 2026, Texas Governor Abbot issued a moratorium on the filing of any new H-1B unless approved by the Texas Workforce Commission. Accordingly, if you will now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status this moratorium may affect our ability to employ you should you be selected as the final candidate. 

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The Communications Specialist, under the direction of University Communications leadership, proactively identifies, researches and develops compelling stories that showcase Tarleton State University’s students, faculty, staff, research, programs and institutional priorities. Through strategic relationship building, content development and collaboration with campus partners, this position helps increase awareness and visibility of the university among internal and external audiences. Serves as Campus Security Authority (CSA).

This is a full-time, on-site position located on the Tarleton State University campus in Stephenville, Texas. Standard work hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., with additional evenings, weekends, or holidays required to support time-sensitive communications and major university events.

Responsibilities:             

Story Development & Research (40%)

• Research and identify compelling stories that highlight academic programs, faculty research, student success, university initiatives and institutional priorities.

• Build and maintain relationships with faculty, staff and university leaders to remain informed of emerging news, accomplishments and strategic initiatives.

• Increase awareness of accomplishments occurring across outreach locations and university campuses through proactive story development.

• Under the direction of University Communications leadership, coordinate news events on campus and distribute news stories throughout university channels.

Written Communication (40%)

• Serve as a lead writer for news stories, feature articles and strategic communications for the Office of Marketing and Communications.

• Contribute as a writer and associate editor for the Tarleton State University Magazine.

• Develop content that reflects university branding, messaging and Associated Press style standards.

• Assist in planning editorial calendars by maintaining a pipeline of future stories and communication opportunities.

Strategic Communications (15%)

• Support communication planning for major university initiatives, events and announcements.

• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to identify communication needs and recommend storytelling opportunities.

• Assist with coordinating university news and distributing content through appropriate communication channels.

Performs other duties as assigned (5%)

 

Minimum Requirements

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Two years of related experience.

Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Strong writing, editing, and organizational skills.

• Knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, project management, database and presentation applications.

• Proven ability to generate imaginative solutions and create cost-effective alternatives, including the ability to proactively position university experts and news stories with media outlets.

• Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

• Interpersonal and communication skills.

• Planning and organization skills.

• Ability to maintain the security and integrity of critical infrastructure, which may include communications systems, computer network and systems, cybersecurity systems, electrical grid, hazardous waste treatment system or water treatment system, if applicable.

Applicants must submit a minimum of three (3) AP‑style writing samples. 

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: Commensurate with experience

Salary Range:

The target base annual salary range is $44,000 up to $46,200 and may be negotiable based on funding availability and candidate experience/skillset in relation to the minimum requirements of this position.

We are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package for full-time and qualifying part-time employees. Our Careers Page offers an overview of the great benefits we offer; for detailed information visit our Benefits Information page.

Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit a completed application for consideration. Initial review of applications will begin immediately and continue until position is filled.

Application Procedure:

During the application process applicants have one opportunity to enter the requested information, upload documents and Submit the application. Applicants will not be able to make changes or add additional documents once the application materials have been submitted via "Submit" action.

Employment applications must include:

• Completed online application
• Cover Letter / Letter of Interest addressing qualifications
• Curriculum Vitae or Resume
• A minimum of three (3) AP‑style writing samples. 
• At least 3 current professional references and their full contact information

Applications received by Tarleton State University must have all job application data entered.  Failure to provide all job application data could result in an invalid submission and a rejected application.  “See resume” is not an acceptable entry in the job application.  Incomplete applications will not be considered.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.