Job Title Communications Specialist Agency Tarleton State University Department Marketing & 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 Marketing & 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. Under general supervision, the Communications Specialist supports the university’s media relations efforts by researching, writing, and distributing strategic communications that enhance awareness and visibility of Tarleton State University’s people, programs, and achievements. The Communications Specialist helps ensure the university’s voice is clear, consistent, and aligned with institutional priorities while fostering strong relationships with internal and external audiences. Serves as a 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. Applicants must submit a minimum of three (3) AP‑style writing samples. Responsibilities: + Creates messages including print, video, and online, to fit Associated Press standards and reflect the mission, image strategy, and strategic marketing plan. + Maintains contacts and pitches news outlets on stories about Tarleton State University to the public. + Assists with the creation of event scripting, biography writing, web content, and other writing-based needs as assigned. + Under general supervision, coordinates news events on campus and distributes news stories throughout university channels. + Writes, edits, and distributes communications through internal and external channels. + Assists in maintaining relationships across the university to find stories and recognitions to be made public. + Assists with coordinating public relations efforts, including press conferences, executive media training, and relevant communication with regional and National media. + Project management assistance for full time and student intern unit partners, as needed. Minimum Requirements Required Education and Experience + Bachelor’s degree in applicable field or equivalent combination of education and experience + Two years of related experience Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: + Strong writing, editing, and organizational skills + 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 organizational skills. Compensation & Benefits Salary: Commensurate with experience Salary Range: The target base annual salary range is $44,000 up to $55,550.50 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 (https://www.tarleton.edu/jobs/) offers an overview of the great benefits we offer; for detailed information visit our Benefits Information (https://www.tarleton.edu/human-resources/employees/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 + 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. Founded in 1899, Tarleton State University a founding member of The Texas A&M University System, has a rich history and tradition through generations that have inspired educational excellence. Tarleton maintains a commitment to transformational student experiences and career readiness supported by engaged faculty, staff, and alumni mentors. Tarleton State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), earned the prestigious designation of Doctoral Universities: High Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, and is an NCAA Division l athletics member . All links will open to a new tab + Division of Human Resources (https://www.tarleton.edu/hr/index.html) + Benefits + University Leadership (https://www.tarleton.edu/president/) + Research and Economic Development + Traditions and History (https://www.tarleton.edu/traditions/index.html) Tarleton State University is an Equal Opportunity/ Veterans/ Disability Employer. If you have questions about submitting your application, please contact employment@tarleton.edu .