Position Summary
Please Note: The salary range for this position is $ 59,844.00 - $ 71,148.00 annually, depending on qualifications, with periodic increments up to $ 72,924.00 annually.
The mission of Pierce College is to create quality educational opportunities for a diverse community of learners to thrive in an evolving world. The Pierce College District is committed to being an anti-racist institution; to truly be anti-racist we must work deliberately to eliminate barriers that have prevented the most promising and capable students from entering and thriving in college.
The Digital Marketing Specialist (Communications Consultant 3) is a creative, data-driven professional responsible for elevating Pierce College’s digital presence and driving measurable results. This role supports the college’s mission to create quality educational opportunities for a diverse community of learners to thrive in an evolving world by developing and executing innovative digital marketing strategies that promote enrollment, student engagement, and community awareness.
As a key member of the Marketing and Communications team, the Digital Marketing Specialist will lead the planning and execution of multi-channel digital campaigns, optimize web content for Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and accessibility, and leverage analytics to inform decisions and improve performance. This role collaborates closely with internal clients and departmental colleagues to understand objectives, recommend effective strategies, and implement solutions that align with institutional priorities.
This position is ideal for a strategic communicator and problem-solver with a passion for higher education, a strong understanding of emerging digital trends, and the ability to translate data into actionable insights. The position reports to the Web Manager of Marketing and Communications and requires regular, consistent attendance.
About the District
Pierce College is a high-performing, mission-driven, data-informed, student-focused district committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. For 55 years, Pierce College has developed a national reputation for academic excellence and support services to ensure student success. The district is proud of the many awards and recognitions it has received. Pierce College is an Achieving the Dream Leader College of Distinction and was the 2017 recipient of their prestigious Leah Meyer Austin Award, given for measurable improvements in student outcomes.
Named as a Top 5 Finalist and a Rising Star for the 2019 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, Pierce College Fort Steilacoom was recognized for exceptional achievements in student learning, certificate and degree completion while in community college and after transferring to a four-year institution, employment and earnings rates after graduation, and access for and success of minority and low-income students. Pierce College District was named as a Top 10 finalist for the 2021 Aspen Prize and a Top 25 for 2023. Pierce is also one of 30 original AACC Guided Pathways colleges and one of first five College Spark Washington pathways colleges. We have bold goals to have all students on a career pathway to increase completion rates for all students and to close achievement gaps by 2027. Want a feel for our District. Take a peek with aerial campus views!
Pierce College Fort Steilacoom
Located on a beautiful 140-acre site adjacent to a 340-acre community, recreational park, and Waughop Lake.
Pierce College Puyallup
Located on an expansive site with 125-acres of wooded land with beautiful hideaways.
Pierce College at JBLM
Located at the Joint Base Lewis-McChord military sites, serving many of our military and active-duty families that are serving our country.
Our colleges enjoy a strong presence in the communities in which they serve and participate in numerous partnerships with business, community, government, and educational organizations.
Essential Functions
The Digital Marketing Specialist (Communication Consultant 3) will be responsible for the following, but not limited to:
Develop and write Search Engine Optimization (SEO) friendly web content
*Research and write compelling, SEO-optimized content for the college website to improve search engine visibility and user engagement.
*Collaborate with subject matter experts to translate academic and administrative information into accessible, student-friendly language.
*Ensure all web content aligns with SEO best practices, accessibility standards, and Pierce College’s brand voice.
Manage and execute digital marketing campaigns
*Plan, recommend, and execute paid and organic campaigns by determining the most effective platforms and strategies based on departmental goals and audience needs. This includes launching and monitoring campaigns across channels such as Google Ads, LinkedIn, Meta, and emerging platforms as appropriate.
*Coordinate and manage campaign assets including graphics, videos, landing pages, and ad copy.
*Collaborate with clients and colleagues to design campaign strategies that align with institutional goals, enrollment cycles, and strategic initiatives.
*Recommend the most effective platforms and tactics, execute campaigns, and continuously monitor performance to make data-driven adjustments as needed.
Analyze, optimize, and report on campaign performance
*Track key performance indicators (KPIs) using tools such as Google Analytics, Meta Business Suite, and platform-specific dashboards.
*Generate regular performance reports and provide actionable insights to improve future campaigns.
*Evaluate digital marketing workflows, campaign performance, and related processes to identify areas for improvement.
*Recommend and implement changes to enhance program effectiveness, efficiency and alignment with institutional priorities.
*Troubleshoot and resolve complex issues related to campaign execution, platform functionality, or data accuracy.
*Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Education Required
*Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Marketing or Communications.
OR
*In lieu of a bachelor’s degree, four (4) years of working experience in digital marketing, preferably in higher education. This experience must be in addition to the minimum experience required for the position.
Experience Required
*Ability to work independently and as a team member.
*Strong organizational skills and good follow-through.
*Excellent oral and written communication skills.
*Demonstrated experience in Search Engine Optimization/Search Engine Marketing (SEO/SEM) and Google Ads.
*Familiarity with analytics tools (Google Analytics, Meta Business Suite).
*Strong writing, editing, and visual storytelling skills.
Special Requirements
*After a conditional offer of employment, the successful candidate must consent to and pass a criminal records background check. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability to perform in this position.
*Must have a driver’s license and ability to travel between campuses and off-campus as necessary.
Required Competencies
Effective Communication
Demonstrates effective verbal, written, listening, and presentation communication skills; effectively communicates by actively listening and sharing relevant information with coworkers, administrators, students, and other external constituents to anticipate problems and ensure effectiveness of the district. Effectively transfers thoughts and expresses ideas verbally or in writing to individuals or in group situations. Possesses excellent communication skills.
Teamwork
Makes team and college mission and outcomes a priority. Respects team and individual perspectives. Encourages team unity through sharing information or expertise, works together to solve problems, and puts team success first.
Multiculturalism
Builds relationships, values organizational diversity, treats others with respect, promotes cooperation, effectively manages work relationships, helps contribute to a work environment that embraces and appreciates diversity. Sees the value of cultural, ethnic, gender and other individual differences in people. Creates an environment of learning about, valuing, encouraging, and supporting differences. Strives to eliminate barriers to diversity and helps prevent new barriers to diversity being built.
Interpersonal Skills
Uses strong interpersonal skills to maintain relationships with stakeholders in order to continue and enhance working relationships.
Job Management
Can effectively manage time while handling several tasks at once. Demonstrates the ability to identify and prioritize tasks while maintaining deadlines.
Continuous Learning
Develop technical knowledge and skills, keeping up to date with best practices and new technologies and communicating these to others.
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Develop and create ideas, processes and approaches that shape the future; use analysis and critical thinking skills to solve problems; ensure decisions are aligned with strategic direction of our college district.
Results Orientation
Set realistic project goals in conjunction with supervisor and team, develop appropriate metrics for measuring goal progress, and periodically communicate goal completion progress.
Flexibility
Can adapt effectively and positively to change. Participates in process and workflow discussions with team and demonstrates a willingness to modify strategy as needed to react to new procedures, policies, and technology.
Application Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must:
*Meet the required qualifications as outlined in this announcement.
*Complete the online application profile at https://www.pierce.ctc.edu/hr and apply for the specific job opening.
*Cover Letter: Upload (attach) a cover letter that addresses how you meet the required qualifications as outlined in this announcement.
*Resume: Upload (attach) detailed résumé of all educational and professional experience.
*Transcripts: Transcripts are not required in order to apply for this position; however, if you are selected for an interview, you will be asked to bring copies of unofficial transcripts showing completion of the required level of education and/or coursework. International transcript must include a foreign transcript evaluation. For a list of approved credential evaluation services, visit: https://www.naces.org/members.
**Please note: Certain positions require specific levels of educational attainment such as a post-secondary degree, licensures or certifications. In order to evaluate applicant materials to determine if the minimum qualifications are met, information regarding your education and experience should be included in your application materials.
**Applications without transcripts attached, may receive notification that their application materials are incomplete. If you receive a notice and information has been provided elsewhere in your applications materials, please disregard. (Unofficial transcripts acceptable for application process; official transcripts required upon hire).
*References: Upload (attach) a list of at least three (3) professional references with names, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses. One of which must be your current or most recent supervisor. Letters of recommendation will not be accepted.
*Supplemental Question: Provide a response to the following question.
**The College's goal is to support all students and to achieve racial and social equity in pursuit of mission. If you were selected for this position, how would you contribute to and support this goal? Please limit your response to a maximum of 500 words.
Special Note
To ensure consideration, application materials should be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on the closing date.
All correspondence regarding your application status will be sent to the email address associated with your SCHOOLJOBS.COM account. Please make sure to check your spam folder periodically, in the case of an automated, incorrect delivery.
Terms of Employment
This is a full-time (40 hours per week) classified, overtime-eligible position with Pierce College District. This position is permanent after serving a 6-month probationary period. The primary work location will be at Pierce College, Puyallup campus. Occasional travel to Pierce College campuses or sites may occur. Work hours are between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00p.m. Monday through Friday with occasional evenings and weekend work, and occasional travel as required. This position may be subject to reassignment between campuses or sites. This position may be eligible for occasional remote work once the incumbent is established in the role. Regular and consistent attendance is required.
Salary & Benefits
The salary range for this position is $ 4,987.00 - $ 5,929.00 monthly, depending on qualifications, with periodic increments up to $ 6,077.00 monthly.
However, your paycheck is just part of the total compensation package. There is an outstanding benefits package which is worth an additional value equivalent to about 30% of your salary. A comprehensive health care benefits package for you and your dependents includes medical, dental and vision insurance. Life and long-term disability insurance plans; vacation, sick and personal leave; reduced tuition; and retirement benefits are also provided.
Physical Work Environment
This position is required to work indoors in an open office environment, which requires visual concentration on detail, dexterity, precision, and is subject to frequent noise and interruptions.
Reasonable Accommodation
Applicants with disabilities who require assistance with the application and employment process will be accommodated to the extent reasonably possible. Requests should be made to the District Human Resources Office by calling 253-964-7342. Persons who are deaf or hard of hearing may dial 711 to place a call through Washington Relay, the state's free telecommunication access service.
Screening & Interview Process
Only those candidates who have complied with the application process and meet the required qualifications will be considered. Following the review of application materials, the most qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview. Check the email account you used for the application process for communication regarding the status of your application. Application materials submitted to Pierce College are the property of the College and will not be returned.
Please Note
This is a competitive selection process. Your application materials will be reviewed and evaluated based on the minimum qualifications listed for the position. Applicants whose qualifications most closely correspond to the district’s needs will be eligible for further consideration. Notification of application status normally occurs 4 to 6 weeks after the closing date. Short notice may be given to applicants to participate in further selection processes which may include written, oral and performance examinations, and final interviews.
Conditions of Employment
Prior to the start of employment, finalist(s) for this position will be subject to a pre-employment background check as a condition of employment. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.
Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Conditional offer letters will be accompanied by a declaration and authorization to release information form to be completed by the applicant. Disclosure is required under Washington State Law RCW 28B.112.080.
An offer of employment will not carry with it any responsibility or obligation on the part of the District to sponsor an H-1B visa. In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, proof of authorization to work in the United States will be required at the time of hire.
Pierce College has adopted a Drug Free Workplace policy. As a condition of employment, employees must agree to abide by the requirements established in that policy.
Bargaining Unit
This position has been designated as a bargaining unit position represented by the Washington Public Employee Association (WPEA).
Equal Opportunity
The Pierce College District is an equal opportunity employer. The Board of Trustees and Pierce College District are committed to providing equal opportunity and will not discriminate in terms and conditions of employment and personnel practices. Decisions are made without regard to race, color, national origin, age, perceived or actual physical or mental disability, pregnancy, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or use of a trained guide dog or service animal.
Questions regarding equal employment opportunities or discrimination may be directed to the following:
Kelly Benson - Interim Title IX Coordinator & ADACO/Section 504 Coordinator
(253) 964-6716
Deena Forsythe - Vice President for Human Resources
(253) 964-6586
Paula Henson-Williams - District Affirmative Action Officer
(253) 864-3229
Employer
Pierce College
Address
9401 Farwest Drive SW
Lakewood, Washington, 98498
Phone
253.964.7342
Website https://www.pierce.ctc.edu/hr
Digital Marketing Specialist (Communications Consultant 3) Supplemental Questionnaire
*
QUESTION 1
The College's goal is to support all students and to achieve racial and social equity in pursuit of mission. If you were selected for this position, how would you contribute to and support this goal? Please limit your response to a maximum of 500 words. To learn more about our Equity, Engagement, and Belonging efforts, please visit: https://www.pierce.ctc.edu/equity-engagement-and-belonging
* Required Question
Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.