Coastal Ecology & Seagrass Biology Lab - Social Media Manager

Coastal Ecology & Seagrass Biology Lab - Social Media Manager

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Coastal Ecology & Seagrass Biology Lab - Social Media Manager.

Position Details Location Gulf Coast Research Laboratory

703 East Beach Drive

Ocean Springs, Mississippi, 39564

United States Division Coastal Sciences Position Type Staff Employment Status Part Time Grant Funded Partial Pay Grade

Generic Grade

Posting Close Date Open Until Filled

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary

The Social Media Manager develops and manages the digital and social media presence of the Coastal Ecology and Seagrass Biology Laboratory. The position creates engaging science-based content, manages social media platforms and content calendars, engages with online audiences, monitors performance metrics, and develops strategies to increase awareness of the laboratory''s research and activities. The position collaborates with faculty, staff, and students to translate coastal and marine research into accessible content for public audiences and participates in field activities to capture visual and written content.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

• Develops, writes, edits, and publishes original science-based content for social media and other digital platforms, including written, visual, and multimedia content highlighting laboratory research, projects, accomplishments, and activities.
• Develops and maintains a cross-platform social media and digital content calendar and implements communication strategies designed to increase audience reach, engagement, and awareness of coastal and marine research.
• Manages day-to-day social media activity, monitors online conversations and mentions, and responds appropriately to comments and messages to foster professional and meaningful audience engagement.
• Monitors and analyzes social media and digital performance metrics, including reach, engagement, audience growth, and content performance, and uses findings to recommend and implement adjustments to communication and engagement strategies.
• Collaborates with faculty, staff, students, and other laboratory personnel to identify research activities, findings, events, and other topics appropriate for public communication and translates scientific and technical information into accessible content for nontechnical audiences.
• Participates in laboratory activities and field-based research outings, including activities aboard small and large research vessels, to capture photographs, video, interviews, and other original content documenting research and educational activities.
• Develops content supporting relevant awareness campaigns, observances, and outreach opportunities, including World Seagrass Day, World Ocean Day, and other events related to coastal and marine ecosystems.
• Maintains digital content and communication materials in accordance with University branding, accessibility, and communication standards and performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in marine biology, ecology, biology, environmental sciences, communications, marketing, or a related field and experience developing content for or managing organizational, professional, educational, or research-focused social media or digital communication platforms.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to translate scientific and technical information into clear, engaging content for diverse audiences.

• Knowledge of social media platforms, digital communication practices, audience engagement strategies, and content development.

• Ability to develop effective written, visual, and multimedia content for digital platforms.

• Ability to interpret social media and digital performance metrics and use data to inform communication strategies.

• Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to independently manage multiple projects, priorities, and deadlines.

• Excellent attention to detail and ability to maintain accuracy when communicating scientific information.

• Strong interpersonal and collaborative skills with the ability to work effectively with faculty, staff, students, researchers, and other stakeholders.

• Ability to work effectively in laboratory and field research environments, including aboard research vessels.

• Proficiency with social media management tools and common design, video editing, and digital content applications.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience communicating scientific or technical information to public audiences.

Experience working in coastal or marine ecosystems, scientific laboratory environments, or aboard research vessels.

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.

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.