Reporting to the Associate Director, Communications and Marketing, the Multimedia Specialist is responsible for creating, editing, and presenting various media materials to build the Faculty of Science (Science) brand. They ensure that the brand and visual identity expressed in video, online and in design materials aligns with Science and the University’s branding guidelines, while pushing the boundaries of what’s expected. As the lead contact for multimedia needs, including video productions, graphic design, and photography, this position is responsible for continuous improvement of Science’s multimedia offerings made available across multiple platforms. This role integrates and leverages content across a range of online channels, planning and creating new multimedia initiatives, collaborating across Science, and brings innovative ideas and solutions to light to enhance the reputation of Science in the marketplace and within the University. This role will work closely with the broader Communications and Marketing team.

Leads the content creation of original video content for the web and various social media channels

• Produces, directs, captures, designs and edits multiple video productions
• Art directs multiple video styles from high-end productions to guerilla style videos, and is comfortable performing streeter interviews
• Leads and guides clients in the development of strategic, effective multimedia materials
• Constantly explores and proactively suggests new and creative ways to “tell our story” and expand our audience reach for a number of audiences including potential and current students, alumni, donors, and employer audiences
• Develops engaging storylines, storyboards, and ultimately, professional productions that can function on multiple platforms (web, digital displays, social media, etc.)
• Provides guidance to talent for the optimal on camera experience

Acts as design lead for Science materials

• Using the Adobe Creative Suite, the Multimedia Specialist will provide layout and design of Science materials ranging from program one-pagers to multi-page donor pieces
• Ensures that all brand guidelines are being followed for all creative material, print or digital
• Will source out and/or photograph needed imagery for graphics pieces
• Can take and edit photography for print and web uses (events, headshots, in class, etc.)

Project manages productions through the entire process to sign-off

• Ensures the effective project management of digital projects, including personnel, resources, time and budget
• Leads the team in proper digital asset file management
• Actively participates in the feedback loop, accepting feedback from stakeholders and providing feedback within the team
• Collaborates with members of the Communications and Marketing team to ensure videos, graphics and photography meet both Science and institutional needs, aligning with the brand strategy and meeting University web and accessibility standards
• Responds to client needs by analyzing the client’s directives and discussing necessary changes to improve and implement the functionality and design of their projects
• Tracks video analytics and metrics, plus utilizes data to create meaningful reports and evolution of video strategies, testing, optimizations, approaches and distribution

Maintains strict quality control

• Ensures excellence and consistency in the design of all video productions and graphic assets
• Ensures Waterloo identity guidelines are met
• Maintains and reviews video equipment and studio
• Stays current with video editing software, video equipment, SEO for video, and video accessibility standards
• Stays current with graphic design software and design trends
• Prepares videos to meet current AODA standards and ensures all accessibility guidelines are met for every video project
• Continues to research new technologies that will aid in future projects, recommending new and innovative products for future productions

Collaborates and acts as a resource

• Works collaboratively with the Communications and Marketing team members, as well as those in the broader Science community
• Works with colleagues to improve their craft and the technologies enabling it
• Ensures open communication with other stakeholders in Science and other communications professionals in Science and promotes best practices in video content and its delivery
• Participates on committees as required

• Post-secondary education in graphic design, communications, digital marketing, media studies, journalism, digital experience, or similar required
• Drone pilot certification would be a plus
• 5-10 years of experience in videography and graphic design
• Expert knowledge as director of photography and as editor/producer
• Video production experience specifically in planning, shooting and editing (understanding of lighting, camera types, audio recording, simple special effects and video editing)
• Proven ability to direct simple video production projects and organize larger video production projects
• Track record of innovative and effective multimedia storytelling
• Experience with accessibility standards
• Experience working with senior executives and diverse stakeholders is critical
• Experience creating animations an asset
• Working knowledge of AR and VR technologies an asset
• Experience working in-house or in an agency is considered an asset
• Video production skills including: quoting, concept creation, script writing, storyboarding, video shoots, animations, editing, special effects, motion graphics, audio mixing and mastering final project
• Layout skills, including knowledge of typography, graphic design, colour theory, and use of third-party tools
• Knowledgeable of video formats, different platform requirements, colour grading and post-FX
• Knowledgeable about usability and accessibility for both video production and web design and able to test design changes to meet standards in these fields
• Strong knowledge of branding and its application to various communications
• The ability to create and coach others on the preparation of branded presentations utilizing the full functionality, features of PowerPoint (such as animation and embedded exported media files within a presentation)
• Demonstrated knowledge of and ability to apply key metrics for effective ROI analysis and to make testing plans, optimizations and continuous improvements
• Effective time management skills, ability to multitask and confidence in decision making under pressure
• Positive energy and attitude, willingness to work flexible hours
• Effective interpersonal and written communication skills
• Keen sense of responsive client service
• Intermediate to expert use of current project, data management and digital communication tools including:
  • Software – Adobe Premiere, After Effects, Final Cut Pro Suite, Adobe Creative Suite
  • Equipment – DSLR camera operation, lighting, audio recording

The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is co-ordinated within the Office of Indigenous Relations.

The University values the diverse and intersectional identities of its students, faculty, and staff. The University regards equity and diversity as an integral part of academic excellence and is committed to accessibility for all employees. The University of Waterloo seeks applicants who embrace our values of equity, anti-racism and inclusion.  As such, we encourage applications from candidates who have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including applicants who identify as First Nations, Métis and/or Inuk (Inuit), Black, racialized, a person with a disability, women and/or 2SLGBTQ+.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

The University of Waterloo is committed to accessibility for persons with disabilities. If you have any application, interview, or workplace accommodation requests, please contact Human Resources at hrhelp@uwaterloo.ca  or 519-888-4567, ext. 45935.