Job Details

Position Number: 40027872

Payroll Title: COMM SPEC 4

Job Code: 5887

Job Open Date: 9/1/2025

Application Review Begins: 09/17/2025; open until filled

Department: CHAN

Percentage of Time: 100%

Union Code: 99 (Non-Represented)

Employee Class: Staff (Career)

FLSA Status: Exempt

Salary Grade: Grade 24

Full Salary Range: $99,000 to $182,000 per year (budgeted $99,000 – $139,600)

Work Location: Cheadle Hall, 5117 UCSB Campus

Working Days and Hours: M-F; 8am - 5pm

Benefits Eligibility: Full Benefits

Work Arrangement: Hybrid

Brief Summary of Duties

Independently oversees executive communications, working closely with the Chancellor on a communications strategy that expresses and supports the vision and mission of the university. Prepares a wide range of communications including speeches, presentations, reports to the Faculty Legislature, Foundation Board of Trustees and Alumni Board, international keynotes, media quotes and responses, campus memos, communications with UC Office of the President, public statements, interviews, award nominations, and general correspondence with high visibility and consequence of error. Researches issues and special topics, consults with campus colleagues, writes reports, and works on complex communication projects requiring quick thinking and response, strong subject matter expertise, a high degree of political acumen and sensitivity to nuance, and an in-depth understanding of how to reach out effectively and respectfully to different audiences. Exercises diplomacy, tact, and discretion at all times; works with a high degree of autonomy while developing strategies and tracking multiple deadlines and priorities; is flexible, organized, thoughtful, thorough, and collaborative.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in a related area and/or equivalent experience/training
• 7-9 years of experience with writing/editing in a higher education environment or related area
• Demonstrated ability to prepare speeches, presentations, and written communications for senior leadership across a variety of audiences
• Strong judgment and political acumen, with the ability to navigate sensitive and complex issues
• Proven skill in conveying complex information in a clear, concise, and compelling manner
• Experience engaging with media and public communications, including preparing leaders for interviews or public statements
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively

Preferred Qualifications

• 4-6 years of experience with writing/editing for a senior leader or executive

Special Conditions of Employment

• Satisfactory completion of a background check
• UCSB is a Tobacco-Free environment

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement

As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegation or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

“Misconduct” means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including but not limited to violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.

Job Functions and Percentages of Time

• 70% Communications: Prepares a wide range of written and electronic communications for the Chancellor; researches and ensures accuracy; monitors office email; coordinates with senior officers and institutional communications; maintains current knowledge of university programs; works closely with the Chancellor to understand priorities and support strategic communications.
• 20% Special Projects and Analysis: Provides administrative analysis and support; performs sensitive or complex projects; attends campus events with the Chancellor; coordinates with other office staff; anticipates needs and opportunities.
• 10% Backup Coverage: Primary backup to the Associate Chancellor and secondary backup to the Executive Assistant; supports front office; assists with problem‑solving; assists during campus emergencies and urgent situations.

UC Vaccination Programs Policy

As a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs. All Covered Individuals must participate in any applicable Vaccination Program by providing proof that they are up‑to‑date with required vaccines or submitting a request for exception. For more information, please refer to the University of California Policy on Vaccinations.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

Reasonable Accommodations

The University of California endeavors to make the UCSB Job site accessible to any and all users. For accessibility assistance or to request accommodations, contact Katherine Abad in Human Resources at 805-###-#### or email ...@hr.ucsb.edu. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.

Benefits of Belonging

UC Santa Barbara is recognized for its flexible, stable, and rich benefits, including excellent retirement and health plans. Our dynamic environment supports scholarly ambition and creativity. Join us and support the mission of one of the finest public institutions in the nation.

Application Instructions

For full consideration, please include a resume and a cover letter as part of your application.