Social Media Manager

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Social Media Manager

🔹 Company: University of Chicago

🔹 Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid - 2 days remote, 3 days in office)

🔹 Job Type: Full-Time

🔹 Category: Marketing & Communications

🔹 Date Posted: May 6, 2025

🔹 Experience Level: 2-5 years

🔹 Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Managing UChicago PME's social media presence across various platforms
• Creating and curating engaging content for multiple audiences
• Capturing and editing high-quality photos and videos of live events
• Overseeing community management and engagement on all social platforms
• Analyzing content performance and proposing actionable recommendations

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong understanding of social media platforms, excellent writing and editing skills, and the ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Write, edit, and post content, events, and brand extensions across social-media and mobile-first platforms

✅ Identify news pegs and opportunities to re-promote archival stories and other materials

✅ Pitch and produce social-first series that will elevate and expand the brand on social media

✅ Attend events or visit labs to snap social media photos as needed in rotation with other team members

✅ Film and photograph live events, and other activities; edit visual content across social channels

✅ Help with other aspects of UChicago PME’s digital-distribution strategy and content, including the newsletter

✅ Proactively run focused social advertising through UChicago PME platforms for degree programs, virtual information sessions, and other key initiatives

✅ Oversee analytics reports to measure content performance and propose actionable recommendations for the team

✅ Actively consult with PME team members on relevant matters relating to social media, SEO, and online best practices

✅ Collaborate with the team to maximize stories’ reach and ensure the brand meets site-wide growth and engagement goals

✅ Solve a range of challenges, but partner effectively with the team on complex issues

✅ Manage digital and social media assets, including routine website maintenance

✅ Compile and analyze relevant metrics based on established strategic goals

✅ Use social listening and media monitoring tools to track online conversations and trends relevant to PME’s mission and reputation

✅ Interpret digital and social analytics to provide regular, strategic insights that inform content creation and engagement efforts

✅ Plan, develop, and disseminate information designed to keep the public informed of the organization's programs, accomplishments, or point of view, with moderate levels of guidance and direction

✅ Continue to build higher level knowledge of the University, processes, and customers

✅ Perform other related work as needed

ASSUMPTION: This role requires strong organizational and communication skills, as well as the ability to work in a fast-paced environment and meet tight deadlines.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: College or university degree in a related field

Experience: 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in digital analytics, social listening, and media monitoring
• Proficient with analytics and listening tools, including Cision, CrowdTangle, SocialFlow, Buffer, Facebook Insights, Twitter Analytics, Google Analytics 4, Parse.ly, and others
• Proficient with image editing tools, such as the Adobe creative suite, InDesign, Photoshop, and InCopy and/or Canva
• Background with video production tools and processes
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite, Submittable, WordPress, Zoom, Slack, and Google Docs as well as Hootsuite and Mailchimp

Preferred Qualifications:

• Undergraduate degree in a related field
• Two to five years of experience in social media in a fast-paced environment
• Knowledge of basic science or engineering is a plus
• Fluency in a non-English language is a plus

ASSUMPTION: Candidates with a strong passion for social media, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and a deep understanding of the media landscape and news trends are highly desired.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $60,000 - $68,000 per year

Benefits:

• Health, retirement, and paid time off

Working Hours: 37.5 hours per week, with occasional work in the evenings and on weekends

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for similar roles and experience levels. The actual compensation may vary based on the candidate's qualifications and the University's internal equity.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: Higher Education & Research

Company Size: 11-50 employees

Founded: The University of Chicago was founded in 1890, and the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering was established in 2019

Company Description:

• UChicago PME integrates science and engineering to address global challenges from the molecular level up
• The School's rigorous academic and research programs are made possible through a unique partnership with Argonne National Laboratory
• UChicago PME aims to bring solutions for urgent societal problems to the forefront while training the next generation of scientific leaders and entrepreneurs

Company Specialties:

• Molecular Engineering
• Research & Development
• Education & Training

Company Website: bfi.uchicago.edu

ASSUMPTION: UChicago PME is a dynamic and growing school with a strong focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: Mid-level professional

Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Executive Director and Communications Manager

Work Arrangement: Hybrid - 2 days remote, 3 days in the office, with occasional work in the evenings and on weekends

Growth Opportunities:

• Potential to grow within the Communications and Marketing team as the School expands
• Opportunities to collaborate with faculty and researchers on cutting-edge projects
• Chance to develop skills in event planning, graphic design, and multimedia production

ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of science, engineering, and communications, with ample room for professional growth and development.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid - 2 days remote, 3 days in the office

Office Location(s): 5757 S University Ave., Chicago, IL 60637, US

Geographic Context:

• Chicago is the third-most populous city in the United States, with a diverse and vibrant cultural scene
• The Hyde Park neighborhood, where the University of Chicago is located, is known for its historic architecture, parks, and museums
• The city offers a wide range of housing options, from urban apartments to suburban homes

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, with occasional work in the evenings and on weekends

ASSUMPTION: Chicago offers a high quality of life, with excellent dining, entertainment, and recreational opportunities. The University of Chicago's Hyde Park campus is a beautiful and historic neighborhood with a strong sense of community.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Phone or video screen with the Hiring Manager
• In-person or virtual interview with the Hiring Manager and a member of the Communications team
• Final interview with the Executive Director

Key Assessment Areas:

• Writing and editing skills
• Knowledge of social media platforms and best practices
• Analytical skills and ability to interpret data
• Creativity and ability to think outside the box
• Communication and interpersonal skills

Application Tips:

• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
• Provide specific examples of your experience with social media management, content creation, and analytics
• Demonstrate your understanding of the University of Chicago and the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering
• Prepare questions to ask the interviewers about the role, the team, and the School

ATS Keywords: Social Media Management, Content Creation, Digital Analytics, Photo Editing, Video Production, Graphic Design, Community Management, SEO, Communication, Organizational Skills, Social Listening, Media Monitoring, Project Management, Deadline Management, Writing Skills, Visual Storytelling

ASSUMPTION: The University of Chicago uses an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to manage job applications. Including relevant keywords in your resume and cover letter can help your application be found and considered.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Analytics and listening tools: Cision, CrowdTangle, SocialFlow, Buffer, Facebook Insights, Twitter Analytics, Google Analytics 4, Parse.ly
• Image editing tools: Adobe creative suite, InDesign, Photoshop, InCopy, Canva
• Video production tools: Various tools and software for video editing and production
• Project management tools: Microsoft Office Suite, Submittable, WordPress, Zoom, Slack, Google Docs, Hootsuite, Mailchimp

ASSUMPTION: Familiarity with these tools and technologies is required for this role. Candidates should be comfortable learning and using new tools as needed.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Excellence in research and education
• Collaboration and interdisciplinary approach
• Innovation and entrepreneurship
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion

Work Style:

• Fast-paced and dynamic environment
• Strong focus on teamwork and collaboration
• Opportunities for professional growth and development
• Occasional work in the evenings and on weekends

  Self-Assessment Questions:

  • Do you have a strong passion for social media and a deep understanding of the media landscape?
  • Are you comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and managing multiple projects simultaneously?
  • Do you have excellent written and verbal communication skills?
  • Are you comfortable working independently and taking direction from leadership?
  • Do you have a strong commitment to the University's mission, vision, and values?

  ASSUMPTION: Candidates who are a strong cultural fit for UChicago PME will have a strong passion for social media, excellent communication skills, and a deep commitment to the University's mission and values.

  ⚠️ Potential Challenges

  • Occasional work in the evenings and on weekends may be required
  • The role may involve covering events or visiting labs on short notice
  • The University of Chicago is a large and complex organization, with many stakeholders and competing priorities
  • The role may require working with a wide range of internal and external partners

  ASSUMPTION: These challenges can be managed effectively with strong organizational skills, excellent communication, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

  📈 Similar Roles Comparison

  • This role is unique in its focus on social media management for a higher education and research institution
  • Similar roles in other industries may have different priorities and stakeholders
  • Career paths for social media managers can vary widely depending on the organization and industry

  ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of science, engineering, and communications, with ample room for professional growth and development.

  📝 Sample Projects

  • Creating and executing a social media campaign to promote an upcoming research conference
  • Developing and implementing a social listening strategy to track online conversations about UChicago PME
  • Editing and publishing a series of photos and videos from a live event, with a quick turnaround time

  ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the range of responsibilities and skills required for this role.

  ❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

  • What are the biggest challenges facing the Social Media Manager role in the first 90 days?
  • How does this role fit into the broader Communications and Marketing team, and how does it collaborate with other departments?
  • What opportunities are there for professional growth and development within the team and the School?
  • How does the University of Chicago support work-life balance for its employees?
  • What are the most important qualities and skills for success in this role?

  ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful and insightful questions demonstrates your interest in the role and your commitment to success.

  📌 Next Steps for Applicants

  To apply for this position:

  • Submit your application through the University of Chicago's careers website
  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
  • Prepare questions to ask the interviewers about the role, the team, and the School
  • Follow up with the Hiring Manager one week after submitting your application to confirm receipt and express your continued interest in the role

  ⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.