The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a non-profit higher education association, is seeking a Communication Associate. The position supports HLC’s day-to-day communication efforts, including ensuring accuracy of institutional accreditation information and providing proofreading and layout support for mass mailings, website content and other materials. The Associate assists with contact management and coordinating HLC’s social media posts to promote HLC’s brand, programs, services, and events.

The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to all aspects of the organization’s communications. The Associate will implement communications strategies for multiple audiences through a variety of vehicles and platforms.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provides general communication support, including triaging and responding to inquiries from the public 
• Assists with the maintenance of HLC’s website, including proofreading and updating content, as well as publishing newsletter articles 
• Publishes and disseminates HLC accreditation actions within specified deadlines, including preparing Public Disclosure Notices 
• Assists with maintaining historical information in HLC’s Directory of Institutions
• Monitors the use of HLC’s Mark of Accreditation Status on member institution websites 
• Assists with mass email communications, including writing, proofreading, layout and scheduling 
• Manages mass mailing contacts 
• Assists with creating and scheduling social media posts 
• Assists with implementing HLC’s communication strategies and evaluating their success using quantitative and qualitative data 

Attributes Sought:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred 
• Willingness to learn communications strategy 
• Excellent editing and writing skills 
• Ability to organize multiple layers of copy  
• Experience with standard office software and technology, including website content management, mass email and social media platforms 

About HLC

The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) is an independent accrediting agency founded in 1895. HLC accredits degree-granting colleges and universities in the United States. HLC has approximately 60 employees.

HLC is a hybrid work environment. In general, employees are expected to work in the HLC Chicago office on an occasional basis.  

Pay Scale and Benefits Information

HLC offers a rich benefits package including an employer 10% contribution of base salary to the retirement plan; medical, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance options; long term disability insurance; and dedicated funding for professional development.

HLC’s time-off includes 20 vacation days, 10 personal days, and a typical annual office closure for ten days in December.

The annual pay range for this salary is expected to be $48,500-$50,000, although the actual salary for the position may vary based on experience, qualifications, and HLC budget considerations.

HLC is an equal opportunity employer. If you may require reasonable accommodations in completing this application, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to hr@hlcommission.org.    

Initial review of applications will begin on July 25th.

About Higher Learning Commission

The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) is the largest accrediting agency in the United States, serving approximately 1,000 member colleges and universities.

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