Overview:
The Communications Assistant Student Employee will support Oakton College's Communications Department by assisting with content creation, editing, and publication across a variety of channels. Responsibilities include entering and formatting newsletter submissions, researching and drafting content for press releases, and supporting media outreach through journalist and outlet research. The role also involves capturing photos, conducting interviews at College and community events, and contributing to social media and web content. This position provides hands-on experience in communications and media relations within a collaborative environment.
Campus Location: Des Plaines (Limited travel to Skokie/Evanston campus, or within the communities in Oakton's district may be needed).
Length of Employment: Up to 1 academic year (Spring 2027)
Can a student do homework in this position? Rarely
Hours Available: 10-15/week
Schedule Flexibility: Flexible schedule. Preferred availability on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Tasks, Duties and Responsibilities (TDRs) and Learning Outcomes:
Tasks, Duties and Responsibilities (TDRs)
Learning Outcomes
Enter and edit content submissions for the employee e-newsletter into Constant Contact following the newsletter format and AP style guidelines
CM, PF, TC
Follow up with submitters to clarify missing details or correct inaccuracies
CM, PF, TW
Support internal and external communications, including identifying topics for publication by conducting research and drafting content for press releases and other channels
CT, CM, PF, LD
Research journalists/media outlets that cover specific beats to help inform media outreach strategies
CT, CM, PF
Capture photographs at College and community events for use in social media, website, and publications
TC, PF, CM
Conduct interviews at College and community events to support content development
CM, PF, TW
Candidate Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills and Other Abilities or KSOAs)
Qualified candidates will have the following competencies and skills:
- Must be currently enrolled at Oakton College in at least 6 credit hours during the Fall and Spring semesters. Employment over the summer is allowed for students taking at least 1 credit class during the summer, or students continuing registration into the following Fall semester.
- Must have an overall GPA of 2.0 or higher and be in good standing at Oakton College.
- Eligible to work in the United States.
- Students pursuing degrees in English, Communications, Marketing, or related areas are preferred.
- Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency with technology; experience using Microsoft Office and Google Workspace (G Suite) preferred.
- Photo and/or video skills a plus.
- Demonstrated reliability, responsibility, and ability to work independently.
- Friendly, flexible, organized, courteous, and punctual.
- Ability to complete assignments at all campuses (Des Plaines, RHC-Skokie, Evanston) is preferred.
Application Process:
- Writing sample: Please submit an essay you wrote for one of your classes.
- Statement of interest (200-300 words): Tell us why you are interested in this position and what interests you about working with Oakton College's Marketing and Communications department.
Questions can be directed to the Communications Manager, Ewa Lyczewska elyczewska@oakton.edu