An Internal Communications Specialist is a member of the Research and Innovation Office (RIO) communications team, reporting to RIO’s Internal Communications Director. This position serves as the communications lead for Research Animal Resources (RAR), a support unit within RIO that provides the University of Minnesota research community with animal care, procurement services, veterinary knowledge, and maintenance of housing facilities for animal-related research activities. This role supports RAR’s internal communications, digital presence, stakeholder engagement, and outreach activities while ensuring alignment with RIO Communications strategy, University brand standards, and broader research enterprise messaging.
Responsibilities
Manage the ongoing refinement and optimization of the department’s web-based information portal (e.g., Canvas course) to ensure seamless staff access to critical resources and integrated systems
Coordinate and maintain RAR website content to ensure accuracy and user engagement in consultation with RIO Communications and RAR leadership
Manage daily operations for internal digital channels, including the design and publication of content for digital display boards and the active moderation and distribution of messages within departmental Google Groups
Maintain oversight of the Animal Research Care Hub (ARCH) message board and other digital tools
Coordinate and develop content for internal newsletters in consultation with RAR leadership
Develop and maintain a suite of communication templates (e.g., email scripts, slide decks, notices) to be used across RAR
Refine messaging for complex initiatives or situations to ensure clarity and professional tone
Assist with the development of presentations and visual materials related to various RAR initiatives and projects
Participate in routine meetings and planning sessions with the RIO Communications team to ensure strategic alignment and functional consistency
Facilitate the implementation of the RAR inter-office communications plan, reviewing and updating the plan as necessary to support employee engagement
Maintain a consistent "dotted-line" workflow to leverage RIO's professional editing, graphic design, and brand review expertise
Develop and maintain a comprehensive calendar of communications and outreach activities, including internal and research community surveys and newsletters
Distribute, review, and respond to stakeholder satisfaction surveys
Triage and track requests for necessary follow-up
Document employee engagement activities specifically designed to address areas of concern or deficiency identified in engagement survey responses
Requirements
BA/BS degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or related field plus at least two years of relevant experience or a combination of related education and work experience to equal at least six years
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Strong, clear writing skills with the ability to adapt tone and messaging for different audiences across digital and print channels
Exceptional organizational skills with a proven track record of managing project workflows, meeting deadlines, and prioritizing competing tasks
Highly collaborative approach, with the flexibility to work effectively between multiple team structures, build positive relationships, and integrate feedback
Self-motivated and proactive, with the ability to take initiative on independent assignments while knowing when to seek direction or guidance
Customer-service orientation with a strong focus on clear communication, active listening, and addressing stakeholder needs
Sound judgment and discretion, with a demonstrated ability to handle sensitive, complex, or confidential information with professionalism and tact
Nice to have:
Experience working in complex public organizations
Demonstrates a genuine interest in University research and scientific operations and is comfortable working in an animal research/lab environment
Familiarity with the University's digital accessibility requirements and communications best practices to achieve accessibility compliance
Experience using Google workspace tools (Gmail, Sheets, Documents, Slides, Groups)
Experience using Salesforce Marketing Cloud or other mass email marketing tools
Experience with content management for website and/or other digital environments
Important Details
Work format: Office/Lab-Based (remote work occurring only occasionally and inconsistently) or Regularly Remote (on-site at least three days per week, with remote work typically one to two days per week)
Visa sponsorship: Not eligible for H-1B visa sponsorship
Application Process
Submit an online application
Attach a cover letter and resume
About the Company
The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations. The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) endorses a “work with flexibility” approach that offers a welcoming and flexible work environment where everyone is inspired to do their best. The RIO Communications Team collaborates with partners in the Research and Innovation Office, across the University, and with external organizations to build awareness of the positive impact of University of Minnesota research and to advance the University's research mission and goals. Research Animal Resources strives to advance scientific progress and promote the humane treatment of animals, in partnership with the University of Minnesota's research community, by providing exemplary service and education in animal care, procurement, health, and well-being. The University of Minnesota is recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, it also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.
