The Pennsylvania State University has flagged the Public Relations Specialist 3 job as unavailable. Let’s keep looking.

Classification Title:

Public Relations Specialist II

Job Description:

Conducts story research, interviews sources, and writes materials to distribute press releases/content for use on multiple communication platforms The overall goal is to increase visibility and outreach for UF/IFAS CREC research, extension, and education programs. Tracks and identifies scholarly research for potential stories, suggests faculty experts to news media, produces stories for in-house communications, produces and posts news items for web and social media. Works closely with other CREC staff, IFAS communicators, the UF/IFAS communications team (photography, video, graphics, media relations) and other staff to identify multimedia ideas and opportunities for stories for dissemination to CREC stakeholders. Assists with maintaining and updating faculty expert lists. Works with the UF/IFAS Communications news staff to disseminate news stories to state and national media; attends regular media relations meetings and participates in the UF and IFAS communicator networks. Produces a monthly statewide external newsletter, a bi-monthly internal newsletter, manages the weekly Tip of the Week program with citrus Industry website and the monthly All in for Citrus podcast with Agnet Media. Regular driving is required to travel to other areas of the state including the main campus in Gainesville.

Builds relationships with UF/IFAS faculty and staff to identify story ideas and develop news content for wire services, newspapers, magazines, radio, agriculture-based publications, news websites and social media. Builds relationships with and works with UF/IFAS public relations specialists and also communicates directly with press editors and broadcasters to respond to media requests. Enhance UF/IFAS relationships with national agricultural and natural resources media including identifying strategic publications and journalists, managing media distribution lists, and managing relationships with key reporters. 

Supports dissemination of information through special events, growers’ meetings, activities, etc. Attends citrus-related events and meetings across the state.

Provides content for social media communication vehicles and supports with the management of social media strategy. May coordinate social media program at CREC. May occasionally act as back up for social media account management and/or content development coordination.

Conduct training and professional development of UF/IFAS CREC faculty and staff through in-service training and webinar opportunities. Orients faculty to public relations and media opportunities. Provides writing, editing and placement assistance to faculty and agents interested in writing opinion articles.

Provides support to the UF/IFAS Government Relations team and acts as liaison between UF/IFAS Government Relations and UF/IFAS Communications leadership on citrus-related issues. Collaborates with the UF/IFAS Government Relations team to promote a positive public image for UF/IFAS citrus programs at the state level.

Implementation of a self-directed professional development plan. Creates job documentation and performs ongoing skill development and training. Ensures a culture of unity, high performance and continuous improvement that values learning and a commitment to quality. Identifies and shares industry trends and best practices. Takes advantage of opportunities for professional development to remain current on consumer interests and trends. Takes advantage of opportunities for professional development to remain current on public relations, journalism, and the tools used to effectively communicate messaging. Develops and provides public relations professional development instruction and media training to IFAS faculty and staff.

Works in a professional manner with faculty, staff, students, and external media representatives and stakeholders. Requires the ability to work independently and think creatively. Strong organizational and time management skills, plus the ability to multi-task and meet deadlines.

Requires elevated levels of the following competencies:

Problem Solving

Effective Communications

Accuracy and Attention to Detail

Knowledge of Organization

Flexibility and Adaptability

Managing Multiple Priorities

Public Relations

Listening

Organizational Communications

Demonstrate commitment to contributing to a respectful and caring community for all, including individuals of diverse backgrounds, experiences, races, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientation, and perspectives.

Implements policies, procedures, and strategies to effectively communicate about UF/IFAS CREC people, programs, and products.

Develops communications materials to achieve state, national, and international visibility, and awareness for the UF/IFAS research, Extension, and education programs at the UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center.

Other responsibilities as assigned.

Expected Salary:

$45,600 - $65,000 (depending on qualifications/experience)

Minimum Requirements:

Master’s degree in an appropriate area; or a bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area and two years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

A degree in public relations, marketing, journalism, communications, or related field and relevant professional writing experience in communications or a related field preferred. This position requires excellent writing skills and an understanding of what is “news” and, more importantly, what is important information for different audiences critical for the UF/IFAS CREC to achieve its mission, goals and objectives. Sharp news sense, good writing and copy-editing skills, understanding of digital communications and strong attention to accuracy and detail preferred. Previous experience writing scientific and/or research articles preferred. Knowledge of Associated Press style preferred.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter and resume.

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.

Health Assessment Required: No

Read Full Description
Confirmed 8 hours ago. Posted 30+ days ago.

Discover Similar Jobs

Suggested Articles