Digital Communications Strategist

Duke University:

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America’s leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Be You.

At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the unique perspectives that each member of our community brings. As the Digital Communications Strategist for Trinity College of Arts & Sciences, you’ll be a vital part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary team that supports over 40 departments and units. You’ll help shape how we connect with our audiences through digital platforms, ensuring our stories are presented with clarity, creativity, and purpose.

Be Bold.

The Digital Communications Strategist plays a key role in strengthening the college’s digital communications infrastructure. You’ll help coordinate web and social media strategies, support analytics-driven improvements, and ensure timely and engaging content distribution. You’ll also partner with the Social Media and Events Promotion Specialist and collaborate closely with content producers to ensure cohesive and engaging storytelling across digital channels.  A cover letter is required with your application.

What You’ll Do:

Web Content & Management

• Build and edit webpages for new initiatives with a focus on design, user experience, and SEO.
• Test and implement new digital tools and features in collaboration with the Director of Digital Strategy and Duke’s Office of Information Technology.
• Support departmental web editors through training and communications of best practices.
• Integrate multimedia and creative assets to enhance audience engagement.
• Maintain and update website content across departments, ensuring accessibility and brand alignment.

Digital Strategy & Implementation

• Develop and execute college-wide digital strategies for web, email, and social media in partnership with the Director of Digital Strategy.
• Provide strategic guidance for social media planning aligned with institutional priorities in partnership with the Social Media and Events Promotion Specialist.
• Maintain digital content calendars and recommend audience engagement strategies.
• Analyze digital performance metrics to guide improvements.
• Develop and launch digital campaigns to promote college initiatives and events.

Project Coordination & Internal Communications

• Manage mass email communications to faculty, alumni, and staff.
• Track project progress and prioritize resources in collaboration with editorial and digital strategy leads.
• Help maintain editorial calendars for college-level and departmental content in partnership with the Editorial Director.
• Support internal communications through coordination of consistent and accessible messaging.

Creative Content & Design

• Assist with the design of digital graphics, banners, and visual assets for campaigns and publications.
• Collaborate on adapting photography, video, and stories for digital platforms.
• Maintain digital asset templates for efficient content reuse across platforms.

Writing samples will be requested as part of the interview process.

Other Duties as Assigned

Choose Duke.

Pay Range: $61,535.00 – $95,880.00 annually
Duke University offers competitive compensation based on experience, education, and market factors. Your total rewards include comprehensive medical and dental coverage, generous retirement benefits, and access to family-friendly and cultural programs. Learn more: https://hr.duke.edu/benefits/

Minimum Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in journalism, public relations, communications, English, or related field.
• Experience: Four years in journalism, PR, marketing, or related field, with experience in digital publishing and content management systems. Academic environment experience preferred.

Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in CMS platforms (Drupal preferred)
• Social media and email content development
• Experience with:
• Analytics tools (Google Analytics, Meta Insights)
• Adobe Creative Suite or similar design software
• Email marketing platforms (Emma, MailChimp)
• Project management tools (AirTable, Trello)
• Strong writing, editing, and organizational skills
• Knowledge of SEO, accessibility standards, and brand management
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

Ready to Make a Difference?

Apply now and help us build a stronger, smarter, and more connected future.