Communications Specialist, Office of Communications and External Relations

Caltech's Office of Communications and External Relations (OCER) is responsible for promoting understanding, inspiring support, and amplifying awareness of the Institute's research, people, accomplishments, and impact across print and digital platforms as well as through events.

Our team members work closely with partners across campus to communicate the Institute's worldwide impact on science, engineering, and education, and to authentically represent its values and priorities.

The Communications Specialist is a member of the Strategy and Community Engagement team, which plays a central role in shaping the direction of Institute communications overall, and in informing how OCER presents Caltech and the work of its research and education community to a broad range of audiences, across multiple communications channels, including websites, social media, print publications, events, newsletters, and others.

The Communications Specialist will enhance the Institute's visibility and strengthen engagement, especially in the Southern California region, by crafting content, supporting events, and facilitating community relations efforts that advance Caltech's mission within the broader public.

The successful candidate will report to the Assistant Vice President for Communications and Government Relations and will join a team that prizes creativity, enterprise, attention-to-detail, and collaboration.

Communications

• Manages the online presence of special events and series-with emphasis on the Watson Lectures and Science Journeys-ensuring that websites are engaging, up-to-date, and in alignment with broader communications goals.
• Develops and updates content for calendar listings, newsletters, event programs, social media, marketing, websites, and other channels.
• Coordinates with freelance writers to develop and publish event preview and follow-up stories, Q&A's, and profiles.
• Collaborates with the Marketing & Communications and Engagement specialists to create multimedia content for social platforms.
• Supports the Executive Communications Lead Writer in compiling background research, creating remarks preparation materials, and distributing messages on behalf of Institute leaders.

Event and Community Relations Support

• Prepares and updates event materials, including slides.
• Joins colleagues in providing flexible event support, which can include setup, guest relations, Q&A facilitation, registration and attendance reporting, tear down and other responsibilities, which may occur outside normal office hours.
• Assist the Community Relations Manager in preparing for and facilitating community tours and meetings.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent.
• Two or more years of successful experience in a communications-related role, ideally in a higher-education or nonprofit setting.
• Ability to write and communicate ideas clearly, compellingly, and confidently.
• Comfort in prioritizing tasks and meeting deadlines while supporting multiple projects.
• Proficiency in Mailchimp (or similar email platforms), web content management systems, and Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop and InDesign especially).
• Interest in creative problem-solving and participation in team-wide discussions.
• An appreciation for science and the wonders of the world.

• Resume.
• Cover Letter.