Communications Specialist
Job Description
Job Description
Job Title: Communications Specialist – Exempt / Salary
Location: Springfield, IL
Reports To: ICCTA Executive Director
Employment Type: Full Time
Salary Range: $55,000 – $65,000
Submit your resume or inquire about this position by emailing SSpann@communitycolleges.org
APPLICATION DEADLINE: September 5, 2025
Position Summary:
This role leads the Association’s communications efforts, with responsibilities spanning media relations, publication design, digital content, special projects, and messaging that supports ICCTA’s legislative priorities. The Communications Specialist will also play a key role in speechwriting, issue advocacy, and multi-agency communication on behalf of the organization.
Primary Objectives:
Coordinate ICCTA communications with trustees and presidents.
Assume responsibility for the Association’s web site and e-mail communications.
Assume responsibility for the Association’s publications.
Fulfill requests for information and referrals regarding community colleges and higher education, including Quick Surveys.
Manage office telephone and voice mail system.
Coordinate the Association's award programs.
Serve as staff resource for assigned meetings.
Issue news releases.
Monitor media coverage of community colleges and recommend appropriate responses to executive director.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
The Communications Specialist must possess:
Strong writing, editing, and speechwriting skills
Experience developing and executing communications plans aligned to legislative or strategic priorities
Familiarity with public information dissemination, publication design, digital and web-based content
Demonstrated ability to synthesize data, research, and policy information from state agencies and partners into clear, audience-specific messaging
Comfort working in fast-paced, multi-stakeholder environments that require clarity, discretion, and diplomacy
Knowledge of community colleges, higher education policy, and/or legislative affairs is highly preferred
Minimum Requirements:
A baccalaureate degree in journalism, English, communications, public affairs, or a related field
Professional experience in journalism, government relations, or strategic communications
Benefits:
2 days of vacation per month
1 day sick per month
3 PTO days
13 paid holidays
Office closed between Christmas & New Year's - no vacation time charged
Health, dental, vision insurances
Cell phone