Public Relations Specialist

About the role

Penn State’s Office of Strategic Communications seeks a communications professional, storyteller, and editor to join its team. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to influence and develop communications on a wide range of topics for a vast University community and the public.

Responsibilities

• Serve as an important editorial voice for the Penn State News website, the University’s official news source
• Build relationships with communications professionals in units across the University and work closely with them to drive key communications initiatives at the campus, college, and unit levels
• Aid in editing news stories submitted by communications professionals from across Penn State
• Support and advance a multi-channel approach to community-building storytelling efforts, such as student success and employee recognition
• Support University-wide goals and priorities by drafting and executing comprehensive communications strategies and plans, in partnership with internal communications team leaders
• Draft institution-wide administrative announcements, such as appointments, departures, and awards
• Collaborate with colleagues within Strategic Communications and across the University to build strategies that drive maximum engagement with internal and external audiences and amplify positive content
• Enhance multimedia storytelling on official Penn State platforms to support and advance the broader strategic goals of Strategic Communications and the University

Requirements

The ideal person for this position will:

• Possess excellent news judgment and exacting attention to detail as an editor
• Have a thorough knowledge of AP editorial style
• Possess a clear writing style and an ability to translate complex concepts into accessible communications
• Be adept at managing relationships with a diverse array of stakeholders, including providing constructive feedback and suggestions to content authors
• Be able to draft high-profile, University-wide communications, anticipating audience questions and considering potential perceptions of the University community and the public
• Have a working understanding of an SEO-forward writing style
• Be highly organized and able to manage multiple priorities with varying deadlines
• Work well both independently and as part of multiple cross-functional, fast-paced teams
• Possess a solid work ethic, sound judgment, and strong problem-solving skills
• Proactively seek opportunities for professional development, learning opportunities, and mentorship
• Have experience using Microsoft Office and Adobe Photoshop

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree
• 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• None

Benefits

This Public Relations Specialist position offers a hybrid work arrangement that combines remote and on-campus working. Some evening and weekend hours will be required.

Pay

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $49,188.00 - $71,340.00.

Schedule

This is a hybrid work arrangement that combines remote and on-campus working.

Qualifications

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications:

• Bachelor's Degree
• 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• None

Skills

Required Certifications: None

Benefits

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

Background Checks/Clearances

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

EEO is the Law

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

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