Public Relations Specialist @ University of Florida – News & Events

This position serves as the primary communications and media relations representative for the South Florida region, requiring residency in South Florida as a remote/off-campus staff member.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute strategic communications initiatives that increase awareness of UF/IFAS research, Extension, and education programs while strengthening relationships with key audiences and media outlets.
• Media Relations & Story Development
  • Identify, research, write, and distribute press releases, feature stories, media advisories, blog content, and other communications materials.
  • Develop and pitch story ideas to local, regional, state, and national media outlets.
  • Respond to media inquiries and coordinate interviews with subject matter experts.
  • Build and maintain relationships with reporters, editors, producers, and other media representatives.
  • Monitor media coverage and identify opportunities to increase visibility for UF/IFAS programs and initiatives.
• Strategic Communications & Content Planning
  • Implement communications plans and public relations strategies that support organizational goals and priorities.
  • Collaborate with faculty, Extension personnel, and subject matter experts to develop content for a wide array of audiences.
  • Translate technical and scientific information into clear, engaging, and accessible communications.
  • Coordinate messaging across media, web, digital, and social media platforms.
  • Ensure content aligns with UF/IFAS branding, messaging, and communication standards.
• Outreach, Engagement & Program Support
  • Serve as a communications liaison for assigned program areas, including Extension initiatives and special projects.
  • Promote UF/IFAS achievements, programs, events, and resources through multi-channel communications efforts.
  • Support event communications, media coverage, and live social media engagement as needed.
  • Maintain editorial calendars and assist in prioritizing content opportunities.
  • Collaborate with communications team members and local offices to support coordinated outreach efforts.
• Reporting, Training & Professional Development
  • Track projects, communications activities, and performance metrics using department project management systems.
  • Evaluate communications efforts and prepare reports to measure effectiveness and guide future strategies.
  • Provide communications guidance, media relations support, and training opportunities for faculty and staff.
  • Review and edit communications materials to ensure quality, accuracy, and consistency.
  • Stay current on industry trends, emerging communications tools, and best practices in public relations and strategic communications.

This position operates with a high degree of independence while collaborating closely with UF/IFAS Communications staff, faculty, Extension personnel, and external partners to advance the visibility and impact of UF/IFAS across South Florida. Some travel is required throughout the State of Florida (primarily throughout South Florida) for events, meetings, conferences, story development, etc. (approximately 20% of work time on average). A valid driver license is required within 60 days (2 months) of hire date.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization; or a Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization and two years of appropriate experience.

Qualifications

• Preferred
  • A degree in public relations, marketing, communications, journalism, or related field.
  • Experience in development and implementation of communications campaigns, public relations campaigns, editorial planning, writing, editing, social media, and/or project management coordination.
  • Experience with communicating scientific discoveries.
  • Proficiency in Associated Press style.
  • The ability to plan, organize and coordinate work assignments independently.
  • Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team toward organizational objectives.

Pay

$53,000–60,000; commensurate with education and experience.