Digital Media Specialist

Through strategic storytelling and integrated marketing, The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, Communications Department enhances the Institute's reputation, invites engagement and collaboration, inspires action, and shows why and how the Institute advances science through research, education, and community. The Communications Department consists of a Manager, Content Writer, Graphic/Web Designer, and a Communications Associate who all work together to create a seamless story and user experience that connects from brochures to newsletters to webpages and everything in between.

Reporting to the Communications Manager, the Digital Media Specialist creates compelling, engaging, and story-driven digital content (photography, video, audio). On any given day this position can expect to develop internal training or external social media videos, capture photographs in the lab or at events, and turn raw imagery into polished final products, all to help internal and external audiences understand that the work we do improves human health and extends lives. The Digital Media Specialist are equally capable on set providing direction and capturing photos and videos as they are in the Creative Cloud or other software programs to edit, enhance, and polish deliverables. This position understands audience perspective and needs, know when to focus on the technical and when to stick to the emotion, and how to leverage the expertise of your team members to tell a comprehensive story across multiple mediums. Most importantly, the Digital Media Specialist are proficient with the equipment and software. The employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, occasional night and weekends dependent on events/campaigns.

Candidates are strongly encouraged to include links to a portfolio or examples of previous digital or design work as part of their application

Focus of Job Responsibilities

Photography and Videography - 75%

* Approach all video and photography assignments with storytelling to create eye-catching, professional, and beautiful products that align with The Hormel Institute's brand.
* Use digital media to tell complex and complicated science and research stories.
* Shoot and edit all necessary and needed photography for use in digital and printed materials. Types of photographs and videos include but are not limited to, faculty, staff, intern, and student headshots; lab, research, and science; internal and external events and campaigns; equipment and technology; and b-roll.
* Handle the entire production process - from client request to filming/photographing to editing and finalizing to final delivery and placement.
* Use software to edit and enhance videos and photographs, including inputting music, dialogue, graphics, and effects.
* Capture audio and sounds for use in videos or other products.
* Determine the most effective use and placement of produced materials (web, social media, print) and execute.
* Balance creativity with attention to detail, ensuring final products include all necessary information, is free of errors, and puts the Institute and its faculty and staff in the best light.
* Collaborate with the Communications team to develop engaging and compelling photography/video products that align with department, project, and Institute objectives and goals.
* Strategize with the Communications team for effective script development, shot lists, and subject scheduling/coordination.
* Consult with internal clients to help them understand photography/video options and directions.
* Respond to feedback and critique to meet client needs and produce the best possible products.
* Maintain equipment and make recommendations for additional equipment that will increase product quality.
* Develop an asset management system and library so all photos and videos are accessible and available when needed.
* Stay updated on industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies to make the next photograph and video better than the one that came before.
* Lead workshops and training to help colleagues and coworkers understand the value of photography/videography as a storytelling tool and how to capture photos/videos using phones or other entry-level equipment
* Collaborate with University marketing and communications professionals to build relationships, networks, and knowledge.

Communications Strategy and Planning - 20%

* Pitch ideas and projects that identify photography/videography gaps and how to fill them.
* Assist in development of team strategic planning, including identifying individual goals and objectives that align with those of the department and the Institute.
* Assist in development of social media strategy and how photography, videography, and other products can be an integral part of it.
* Be an integral member of project and campaign planning to ensure final product is comprehensive and includes materials and elements that are most effective for desired goals
* Collaborate with the Communications team to identify the benefits, risks, costs, and potential for developing an Institute podcast.
* Help department build story into all strategies and deliverables
* Share creative ideas and solutions that enhance the department and the Institute.

Other duties as assigned - 5%

Flexible Work Profile

The Research and Innovation Office (RIO) and The Hormel Institute endorses a "work with flexibility" approach that offers a welcoming and flexible work environment where everyone is inspired to do their best. Work location options include working fully remote, partially remote, or entirely in the office and are based on the work of the position. Some on-site work may be necessary for certain positions, even those designated as fully remote. Because we are a land-grant institution that serves the state, the University will continue to- in most cases- expect employees to live in Minnesota.

This position has been designated as eligible for Flexible Work Profile Two.
Flexible Work Profile Two, Regularly Remote - is expected to work in the office/lab at least 3 days per week. Typically working remotely 1-2 days per week. Your office will be located at The Hormel Institute in Austin, Minnesota. The Hormel Institute management retains the right to modify flexible work arrangement agreements on a temporary or permanent basis for any reason at any time.

Required Qualifications

* BA/BS plus at least two years of experience or a combination of related education and work experience to equal at least six years.
* Proficient with photography, videography, audio, and lighting equipment.
* Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite, Final Cut, Canva, or other video/photo/audio editing software programs.
* Demonstrated ability to identify the most effective use and placement of produced materials and their execution.
* Demonstrated ability to successfully capture still images, videos, and audio, both on location and in the studio.
* Knowledge of digital management software, as well as Google and Microsoft Office programs.
* Able to receive client feedback and critiques and produce revised versions that appropriately respond to that feedback
* Ability to meet deadlines and contribute in a fast-paced environment.
* Creative, organized, detail-oriented, and reliable.

Preferred Qualifications

* Bachelor's degree in photography, film, media production, digital media, communications, or related field.
* Knowledge of basic research, science, and academia.
* Familiarity with Drupal web development program.
* Digital marketing and advertising experience.

Physical & Environmental Requirements

* Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
* Must be able to sit and stand for long periods of time.
* Occasional local and regional travel to other University of Minnesota campuses, external events, and partner organizations.
* Occasional nights and weekends depending on events and campaigns.
* Occasional use of Personal Protective Equipment and other lab-safety equipment.

Founded in 1942 by Jay C. Hormel and The Hormel Foundation, The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, makes scientific advancements that enhance wellbeing and extend human life. For more than 80 years, we have pursued our mission to conduct research and provide education in the biological sciences with applications in medicine and agriculture. A part of the University of Minnesota's Research and Innovation Office, The Hormel Institute partners with the region's leading biomedical research facilities, including Mayo Clinic.

Pay Range: $31.44-$34.83; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Civil-Service & Non-Faculty Labor Represented Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).