Senior Communications Specialist

IT Writer and Communications SpecialistPR : $50.00 per Hour on W2Duration: 3 months with potential to extendBoston MA 02120 - HybridWorking EnvironmentThis is a hybrid role requiring a minimum of three days per week in the office to facilitate collaboration with project teams, stakeholders, and IT colleagues. On-campus presence is essential for building relationships, understanding user needs firsthand, and contributing to our collaborative culture.Job SummaryInformation Technology Services (ITS) is seeking a dynamic IT Writer and Communications Specialist to drive Client's digital transformation forward. In this pivotal role, you'll be the strategic communications leader who transforms complex technology changes into compelling narratives that inspire and empower our university community. You'll craft communication strategies that don't just inform—they guide, educate, and motivate thousands of faculty, staff, and students through major system implementations and process innovations, both big and small.As our communications bridge between technical teams and end users, you'll translate intricate technical concepts into powerful, accessible messaging that resonates across diverse audiences. You'll collaborate at the highest levels with IT project teams, university leadership, and key business stakeholders to anticipate challenges, shape perceptions, and orchestrate communication campaigns that ensure successful technology adoption and organizational change.Key ResponsibilitiesChange Communication and Stakeholder Engagement (40%)Develop comprehensive communication plans for IT projects that guide stakeholders through system changes, process updates, and technology implementationsCollaborate with technical teams, project managers, leadership, and business stakeholders to understand project impacts on different user groupsCreate targeted messaging that explains "what's changing," "why it's changing," "how it affects you," and "what you need to do" for various stakeholder segmentsDesign and execute multi-channel communication campaigns to support organizational change initiativesContent Development and Technical Translation (35%)Write and edit compelling, accessible content for web, email, digital signage, print, user interfaces, and other communication channelsTranslate technical concepts, system requirements, and process changes into language appropriate for diverse audiences (faculty, staff, students, administrators)Develop training materials, quick reference guides, FAQs, and other resources that help users adapt to new systems and processesCreate informational and educational content that drives user engagement and adoption of new technologiesCross-Functional Collaboration and Project Support (20%)Partner with IT project teams to understand technical requirements, timelines, and user impacts throughout project lifecyclesParticipate in project planning meetings to provide communications expertise and identify potential user concerns earlyCollaborate with training teams, help desk staff, and other support functions to ensure consistent messaging across all user touchpointsWork with campus-wide partners to coordinate communications and minimize change fatigueStrategic Communication and Continuous Improvement (5%)Contribute to overall IT communications strategy and help identify opportunities to improve change communication processesMonitor communication effectiveness through user feedback, adoption metrics, and other data sourcesStay current on change management best practices and emerging communication technologiesCounsel leadership on communication strategies for complex or sensitive technology changesRequired QualificationsSubstantial experience in marketing, communications, or related field, preferably in higher education, technology, or organizational change environmentsExceptional written and verbal communication skills with demonstrated ability to adapt messaging for different audiencesStrong technical aptitude with ability to quickly understand complex systems, processes, and technical conceptsProject collaboration experience with demonstrated ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams including technical staff, project managers, and various stakeholdersChange communication experience or strong interest in helping organizations and individuals navigate transitionsAdvanced Microsoft Office skills including collaborative features in Word, SharePoint, Excel, Teams, and OutlookSelf-directed work style with strong project management abilities and attention to detailAdaptability in fast-paced, changing environments with shifting prioritiesPreferred QualificationsExperience with ITIL processes, change management frameworks, or IT service managementProficiency with content management systems (WordPress, Contentful, or similar) and email marketing platformsFamiliarity with user experience (UX) principles and user-centered design thinkingExperience creating multimedia content (graphics, video, interactive materials)Knowledge of web accessibility standards and inclusive design practicesData analysis skills for measuring communication effectiveness and user engagementExperience in complex organizational environments or higher education settingsAI and Technology FluencyCuriosity and openness to exploring AI-powered tools for content creation, editing, optimization, and distributionInterest in leveraging technology to enhance communication processes and user experiencesWillingness to experiment with emerging communication technologies and platformsUnderstanding that AI literacy is increasingly important in modern communications rolesPersonal QualitiesStrong problem-solving mindset with ability to anticipate user concerns and communication challengesEmpathetic approach to understanding how change impacts different user groupsCollaborative leadership style with ability to influence without direct authorityResilience and flexibility when projects shift or timelines changeCommitment to continuous learning and professional developmentCustomer service orientation with focus on user success