Senior Communications Officer for the Laboratory for Laser Energetics - University of Rochester

GENERAL PURPOSE: The Senior Communications Officer for the Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE) develops and implements communications strategies to enhance LLE’s and the University of Rochester’s reputation as a top-tier research facility and the leading academic institution advancing laser technology, fusion, and high-energy-density science at scale. The Senior Communications Officer is responsible for proactively pursuing national and international media coverage for significant scientific research to raise the visibility of LLE and the University in the United States and abroad. They are also responsible for producing a high volume of original content including feature stories for print and digital channels and website copy. This position requires a creative and resourceful communicator with the necessary experience and judgement to counsel LLE leadership on effective communication approaches and tools. LLE is a unique national resource for research and education in science and technology. The Senior Communications Officer should possess a keen interest in science and have relevant experience synthesizing complex scholarly writing and concepts. **RESPONSIBILITIES:** **Content Creation** + Writes compelling stories for both internal and external channels. Identifies narratives that showcase LLE priorities, accomplishments, and research and scholarly work that advance LLE’s reputation as a global leader in scientific research. (15%) + Synthesizes complex scholarly writing and concepts to share with a broad, non-specialist audience. (10%) + Collaborates with graphic and web designers, photographers, and other writers. (10%) **Strategy and Assessment** + Regularly meets with LLE Senior Leadership and attends meetings to understand communications priorities and audiences. + Creates and implements a leadership communications plan for LLE that supports executive communications and enhances LLE’s reputation globally. + Applies analytical skills to improve content performance and delivery. Develops and delivers strategy-based communications through the most effective channels for print and digital communications. + Coordinates with other communications professionals across the University **Leadership Messaging** + Works with LLE leadership to create leadership messages, talking points, and institutional messaging as needed. + Consults with colleagues in University Communications to ensure messaging is in alignment with strategic priorities. + Serves as a content resource to other academic and administrative leaders for complex, scholarship, scientific research, and art making topics. **Media Relations** + Pursues media coverage creatively in a variety of markets. Establishes and maintains regional, national, and international media contacts. + Responds to media inquiries for faculty comment and expertise from local, national, and international news outlets. + Stays apprised of issues, trends, and innovations in higher education and signature institutional programs through key publications, influential thought leaders, social media, and other engagement. **Other duties as assigned** **QUALIFICATIONS:** + Bachelor's degree required + Master’s degree in journalism, communications, engineering, or scientific discipline preferred + 3 years of experience in multimedia, public relations, communications, broadcast, digital publications, corporate communications, or agency work required. + 4+ years’ relevant experience in science journalism, newspaper or magazine writing, publishing, marketing, communications, digital media, or related field preferred. + 2 years of managerial experience in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment preferred; or an equivalent combination of education and experience preferred. + Understanding of the physical sciences, scientific research, engineering and applied science preferred. + Exceptional writing and communication skills required. The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion to advance the University’s mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion/creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other status protected by law. This commitment extends to the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates from underrepresented populations, veterans, and persons with disabilities consistent with these values and government contractor Affirmative Action obligations. **How To Apply** All applicants must apply online. _EOE Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Disabled_ **Pay Range** Pay Range: $ 62,200 - $ 93,300 Annually _The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job’s compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations._ Apply for Job + Careers + Sign In + New User **Location:** Central Administration **Full/Part Time:** Full-Time **Opening:** **Schedule:**