On-Call Communications Coordinator / Professional Aide

On-Call Communications Coordinator

Position Summary(Basic Job Function)

This is a temporary or an on-call position. Provides professional support. Responsibilities may include general business, science, medical, agricultural or other professional support functions. Term: Temps can work two (2) nine (9) month terms with a week break in service in between and at the end of the second term terminate for three (3) months or switch to an on-call. On-Call allowed to work 1039 hours in any twelve (12) month period.

Unit Position Summary

Michigan State University Extension is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive organization, which requires all staff to contribute towards a vision for success. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are central to our work, regardless of title or position within the organization. This means that all staff at MSU Extension are dedicated to the following:

• We work together to ensure that programming is delivered to diverse audiences, produces equitable impacts for all participants, and demonstrates partnership and inclusion for all groups.
• We embrace that it is everyone’s job to create a culture that promotes diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.
• We ensure that every team member is prepared with the skills and resources to contribute to our welcoming and inclusive culture.
• We foster inclusion by recognizing and valuing diverse perspectives, skills, experiences, and work to create equal access to programming for communities.
• We commit to continuous learning for diversity, equity, and cultural competency, in order to achieve inclusive excellence.
• We understand that diversity, equity, and inclusion are essential elements to our work and are vital to the organizational culture and programmatic success of MSU Extension.
• We embrace a culture of understanding, coaching and feedback towards achieving a vision of success for the entire organization and its staff.
• Together we will achieve success and we commit to these goals in our work, continued education, and ongoing efforts.

Position Summary:

Michigan State University (MSU) Extension helps people improve their lives by bringing the vast knowledge resources of MSU directly to individuals, communities and businesses. Tollgate Farm and Education Center provides a space where individuals of all ages and backgrounds can connect with the land, develop a profound understanding of agriculture and the environment, and nurture a greater sense of responsibility for the world around us.

As part of Michigan State University Extension, Tollgate Farm and Education Center is a working educational farm in Novi, Michigan, offering year-round programming focused on agriculture, sustainability, and environmental education.  Tollgate provides hands-on learning experiences for youth, families, schools, and the broader community. The farm hosts a range of programs including summer camps, field trips, and community events, and is home to a sustainable agriculture initiative and robust livestock education. Open to the public, visitors can explore beautiful gardens, scenic walking paths, and a welcoming outdoor space. Flagship events like Maplefest and Pumpkinfest draw thousands each year to celebrate the seasons and connect with the land.

This position’s key area of responsibility is to develop and implement clear, engaging, and consistent communications that promote Tollgate Farm’s programs, events, and mission across multiple platforms and to diverse audiences. This position will work up to 19 hours per week and may utilize a flexible working schedule with some opportunity for remote work. Occasional weekend or evening hours may be required.

Duties –

• Develop and manage content for social media, newsletters, website, and printed materials.
• Manage, write and collect articles for monthly e-newsletter.
• Create engaging visual and written content to promote programs, events, and community impact.
• Maintain and update the Tollgate Farm website and online event listings.
• Coordinate email marketing and manage communication calendars.
• Write and distribute press releases, media alerts, and promotional materials.
• Collaborate with staff to ensure consistent messaging and branding.
• Capture and edit photos and videos for use in digital communications.
• Support donor engagement through storytelling and reporting.
• Support fundraising efforts by developing donor communications, sponsorship outreach materials, and campaign messaging.
• Assist with identifying and soliciting potential sponsors and partners for programs and events.
• Represent Tollgate Farm at networking events, outreach activities, and community functions to enhance visibility and build partnerships.
• Serve as a public-facing representative of the farm, supporting communications with media, donors, partners, and the general public.
• Coordinate and create end-of-year Annual Report document.

Desired Qualifications

• Strong written and verbal communication skills with a strength for storytelling.
• Experience managing social media platforms (e.g., Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn).
• Utilization of Canva for marketing materials and graphic design.
• Basic video edits and development for marketing (e.g., Reels, short educational or promotional videos).
• Familiarity with email marketing platforms (e.g., Mailchimp, Constant Contact).
• Experience updating and maintaining websites (WordPress or similar CMS).
• Ability to capture and edit photos and videos for digital content.
• Strong organizational and project management skills.
• Attention to detail and ability to meet deadlines.
• Comfort working independently and collaboratively in a mission-driven environment.
• Passion for education, agriculture, sustainability, or community outreach.
• Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, public relations, or a related field (or equivalent experience).

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Work Hours

ON-CALL

Remote Work Statement

MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutually agreed upon.