The Grainger College of Engineering at the University of Illinois is a leader in engineering and computing education, research and public engagement. Our diverse community of faculty, students, and alumni is driving the future of technological advancements and innovation, relentlessly pursuing knowledge and empowering the next generation of engineers. Collectively, we are pushing boundaries to solve the world’s greatest challenges and leave a legacy of excellence.
Grainger Engineering seeks an Assistant Dean for Marketing and Communications. This position is part of the Dean’s leadership team and is charged with interpreting, communicating, and marketing the College’s excellence, impact, vision, mission and priorities to internal and external audiences. This position has full oversight of the marketing and communication activities to support, recruit, and drive growth in the
research enterprise, the educational mission, and the goals of expanding diversity and inclusion, through integrated marketing efforts to increase visibility and stature of the college.
The individual in this position will lead and work with an expanded team of communications and technology professionals responsible for brand and marketing strategy, as well as creative development and execution, across all media channels. The individual will liaison with marketing and communications efforts across the departments and units within the college to provide an integrated and aligned vision for marketing and communications across the entire college.
Specific duties and responsibilities include:
- Lead college-level communications and marketing team, providing strategic vision and individualized professional guidance and development.
- Work closely with departments and research units within the college to set and analyze measurable marketing goals driven by the strategic plan.
- Advise and guide the Dean and college leadership with respect to mission-critical, often sensitive
topics and write, massage, and support messaging through efficient channels (often on a daily
basis).
- Expand and improve college-wide brand and marketing strategy in alignment with campus-level strategies, including the expansion of marketing campaigns and communication materials includes digital outlets, magazines, reports, online visibility, print, interactive, video, social, and all other media.
- Represent the college in campus-wide communication, marketing, and branding efforts, as well as manage media relations.
- Explore, develop, and implement innovative marketing approaches that will be effective and have significant positive impact on the stature of the college.
- Establish, foster, and grow strong networking and relationships throughout the college and across the campus and various media outlets.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in related area.
- At least 7 years of relevant experience in academia or industry.
- Previous supervisory experience that includes leading staff and managing operations.
Preferred Qualifications
- Advanced degree in Business, Communications, Marketing, or a closely related field.
- At least 5 years of experience managing a marketing and communications operation.
- At least 3 years of experience within a large public university setting.
- Experience using data and analytics to develop marketing campaigns and measure effectiveness.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Ability to communicate effectively with others, including with senior management.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply market research data to strategic visioning and planning initiatives.
- Ability to promote and demonstrate enthusiasm in support of professional and career development for a team of highly talented professionals.
- Strong skills in strategic planning, to organize effectively resources, establish priorities, and achieve desired results.
- Thorough knowledge of current and emerging marketing trends and best practices, including new and emerging strategies and technologies.
- Proven organizational skills.
The Assistant Dean for Marketing and Communications position is a 100% full-time academic professional position appointed on a 12-month service basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the closing date. Applicants may be interviewed before the closing date; however, no hiring decision will be made until after that date. The budgeted salary range for this position is $170,000-$190,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. Hybrid work options may be available for this position, with the ability to be on-site at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus as needed per the University’s Workplace Flexibility policy. This position is not eligible for any type of sponsorship for work authorization.
Application Procedures and Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (CST) on June 4, 2026. Full consideration will be given to applications received by June 4, 2026. Applications may be reviewed as they are received, interviews may also take place, but no hiring decision will be made until after the closing date. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Please upload your cover letter, resume, and names/contact information for three references. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Sarah Ozier at [email protected]. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions — every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.
Champaign-Urbana
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes health, dental, vision, life insurance, a retirement plan, paid time off, and tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
The University of Illinois must also comply with applicable federal export control laws and regulations and, as such, reserves the right to employ restricted party screening procedures for applicants.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the Accessibility & Accommodations Division of the Office for Access and Equity at 217-333-0885, or by emailing [email protected].
