This week’s job of the week is for a Communications Manager I position in the Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics within the MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (job posting 932698). The Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics (AFRE), one of the leading applied economics departments in the U.S., is ranked #1 in the world in the global ranking of agricultural and applied economics departments. The Food Security Group within AFRE is a self-organized team established in the early 1980s that works with local partners in developing countries to carry out empirically based policy-oriented scholarly research, engagement, and capacity-building focused on problems of global food security.

This job includes but is not limited to cooperating closely with the co-directors and other faculty of AFRE’s Food Security Group (FSG) to write, edit, and create materials (including video) on the activities and outputs of grant-funded international projects suitable for a variety of audiences. There is a strong emphasis on digital communications using the web, content management systems, and social media platforms. There is also the opportunity to travel to project sites in developing countries and to engage with communications specialists in partner organizations in those countries.

The desired candidate will be a self-starter with an outgoing personality who feels comfortable positively representing a team. Ideally, this position is best suited for a team player who can also work independently in a fast-paced environment, make sound decisions, and prioritize tasks effectively. Attention to detail and excellent interpersonal skills are desired.

You should have knowledge equivalent to that which normally would be acquired by completing a four-year degree in journalism, telecommunications, or public relations. One to three years of experience in public relations, marketing, graphic design, web design, publication production, and social media management is required. A background in social sciences and/or agriculture and natural resources is desired but not required to apply.

If you’re interested in applying, please learn more about the Department of Agriculture, Food, and Resource Economics within the MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and apply for this position by March 19.