Social Media Specialist

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Social Media Specialist.

Position Details

Location Hattiesburg

118 College Drive

Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001

United States

Division University Communications

Position Type Staff

Employment Status Full Time

Grant Funded No

Salary Range 43,888.00 - 45,000.00

Pay Grade

E08

Posting Close Date Open until filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

Please submit your resume, cover letter, and portfolio, in addition to your application.

Job Summary

The Social Media Specialist executes the social media strategy for the University’s main accounts, ensuring the University maintains a professional and consistent social media presence. This position monitors the social media landscape, develops and publishes content, reviews performance data, and assists with strategy development in alignment with broader marketing initiatives and communication goals . The Social Media Specialist collaborates with a n integrated team of communication professionals and reports to the Social Media Manager.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Generates high-quality, engaging social media content through researching topics, writing copy, finding or taking photos, and selecting videos. Publishes content across six to eight social media accounts for platforms including Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn, along with additional accounts and platforms that may be added as needed.

• Creates and maintains a social media content calendar to identify upcoming events and topics and coordinates with team to ensure videos, photos, graphics, and other assets are available. Drafts outlines for upcoming content based on established objectives and direction from the Social Media Manager

• Monitors public and private comments and questions from social media users during regular working hours and during established intervals on nights and weekends. Responds promptly and professionally to questions and elevates issues according to established procedures and guidelines

• Uses analytics tools to r etrieve data to measure the impact and success of social media efforts. Assists with regularly developing reports and assessing the effectiveness of current strategies. Remains aware of social media trends. Implements new content and engagement approaches as directed by the Social Media Manager , in alignment with broader marketing initiatives and communication goals

• Implements accessibility practices across accounts to make content available to a wider audience , such as adding alternative text for images, captioning videos, and other methods.

• During emergency situations, posts emergency messages and works closely with the crisis communication s team on a coordinated response. Monitors local news, national news, and trending topics daily that may impact the University’s social media presence. Adjusts social media content and posting schedule accordingly , and p erforms other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in marketing, public relations, mass communication, advertising, or a closely related field, from an accredited college or university. Two years of demonstrated experience creating content and managing a corporate or organizational social media account through a professional position, within the past three years. Experience with a variety of social media platforms. Experience creating social media outlines/schedules. Valid driver’s license

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Ability to frequently monitor accounts during evening and weekend hours

• Ability to respond promptly during emergency situations

• Ability to learn and apply basic Photoshop skills

• Ability to complete occasional day travel to other USM locations to fulfill job responsibilities

• Strong understanding of how to use social media platforms as professional communication tools

• Demonstrated ability to pay close attention to details

• Excellent written communication skills, including the ability to concisely express complex information and identify and correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors

• Ability to work effectively under deadlines

• Ability to make appropriate decisions and exercise discretion

• Ability to work independently and cooperate with team members

• Ability to read and understand complex information

• Ability to shoot basic photos for use on social media

Preferred Qualifications

Familiarity with The University of Southern Mississippi. Three years of demonstrated experience creating content and managing a corporate or organizational social media account through a professional position, within the past five years. Experience working with a professional team to achieve goals.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.