Rockford University is accepting applications for the position of Sports Information Director (SID). The SID is responsible for implementing a comprehensive athletics communications strategy that supports the University’s branding and marketing initiatives. The primary focus of this position is the publicization and promotion of all Rockford University’s athletic programs and its student-athletes. Responsibilities include maintaining the athletic website, creating content for social media platforms, writing recaps, feature stories and press releases, disseminating information to various media outlets, the NACC and the NCAA, keeping and reporting statistical information, properly staffing home events with athletic communication personnel and workers, collaborating with various departments across campus, photography, and gameday streaming and other digital content.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include but are not limited to the following:
- Maintain, edit and enhance the Rockford University athletic website. This includes uploading box scores, recaps, stories, rosters, pictures, schedules and all other relevant content.
- Ensure proper coverage for all home athletic games and special athletic events on campus. This includes gameday staffing for PA, scoreboards, stats, photography and video streaming. Setup and teardown athletic communications equipment at home athletic events.
- Oversee and work closely the athletic communications graduate assistant. Supervise a group of student workers to assist in running home athletic events.
- Responsible for handling statistics for all home athletic events. Disseminate statistics postgame to the proper channels including the local media, the NCAA and the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference.
- Nominate deserving student-athletes for awards at the conference and national level.
- Manage the athletic department social media accounts. Regularly provide content to create an engaging atmosphere for students, fans, alumni and the Rockford University community.
- Create digital media content. This includes video content and graphics to highlight the accomplishments of Rockford University student-athletes and coaches.
- Build relationships with local media and disseminate press releases and updates.
- Assist with the Hall of Fame and annual Regent Golf Play Day.
- Ensure that branding and messaging standards are consistent throughout the department.
- Demonstrate knowledge, skills and abilities in working with faculty, staff and students with diverse backgrounds including academic, socioeconomic, cultural, sexual orientation, and disabilities
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Graduate Assistant for Athletic Communications
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Proficient in stat keeping software including NCAA LiveStats, Stat Crew and PrestoStats.
- Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite: PhotoShop, InDesign, Premiere Pro, etc.
- Knowledge of graphic design tools such as BoxOut Sports.
- Knowledge of video streaming software such as BoxCast.
- Solid written and oral communication skills.
- Ability to interact and work with others in a collaborative fashion.
- Knowledge of the SIDEARM website platform.
- Experience in using various social media platforms.
- Excellent organization, time management and multitasking skills.
- Knowledge, understanding, and acceptance of cultural differences and diversity.
- Availability for night and weekend work/travel.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field or a combination of education and relevant work experience; Master’s preferred.
- 3 plus years of experience in a collegiate athletic communications or sports information department.
- Valid driver’s license and personal automobile insurance. Must meet insurability requirements as set by the University’s insurance.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- The job frequently requires setup and teardown at home athletic events.
- Must be able to lift 25 pounds and transport equipment from one location to another.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
- Employees work in a professional office environment that is highly visible to members and the college community. Requires attendance at most home athletic events, working both indoors and outdoors.
TO APPLY:
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Please submit, via a single .pdf, a cover letter indicating salary requirements, resume and list of three professional references to HumanResources@rockford.edu. This fulltime, exempt opportunity offers an annual salary of $45,000-$48,000.
Our Benefits: Supporting You Every Step of the Way
We believe in taking care of our employees, which is why we offer a competitive benefits package that goes above and beyond. Here’s how we support your health, happiness, and future:
- Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance to ensure you and your family stay healthy.
- Savings for Health & Dependent Care: Flexible savings options to manage healthcare and dependent care costs.
- Financial Protection: Life, AD&D, and disability insurance for peace of mind when life throws you a curveball.
- Retirement Security: 403(b) plan with employer contributions to help you build a secure future.
- Personal Support: Access to our Employee Assistance Program, offering resources for both personal and professional needs.
- Education Benefits: Tuition remission for full-time and part-time employees, their spouses, and dependents. We offer tuition remission both at Rockford University and other partnering colleges through a tuition exchange.
- Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off to help you recharge and spend quality time with loved ones.
At Rockford University, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment that values a well-rounded workforce and community. We welcome candidates who, through their professional experience, contribute to excellence in their work and enhance our institutional mission.