The Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences is hiring a Marketing and Communications Specialist (News Writer) to join our team. In this role, you'll craft compelling news and feature articles, build relationships with media outlets, and promote the college's research and Extension programs to diverse audiences.
What You'll Do
- Research story ideas, conduct interviews, and write press releases and features for the College of Agricultural Sciences and Penn State Extension.
- Tailor messaging to advance the college’s strategic initiatives.
- Manage relationships with local, state, and national media, respond to inquiries, coordinate interviews, and manage media events.
- Track effectiveness of media placements using the Meltwater platform and provide reports to leadership.
- Serve as a liaison to the public and media at special events like tradeshows.
- Oversee and mentor freelance writers and student interns on story development and editing.
- Develop relationships with faculty, students, staff, and communications colleagues.
- Participate in the design and editing of digital content, graphics, and photography.
- Ensure compliance with accessibility standards, privacy policies, and style guidelines.
What We're Looking For
- Bachelor's Degree.
- For an Intermediate Professional: 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- For an Advanced Professional: 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Knowledge of AP style and strong editing skills.
- Experience working with multiple media platforms.
- Experience with Meltwater.
Nice to Have
- Experience in news and/or science or technical writing.
Technical Stack
- Meltwater
Team & Environment
You will be a member of the Marketing and Communications team, reporting to the Associate Director of Communications.
Benefits & Compensation
- Compensation range: $46,400.00 - $74,000.00.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Robust retirement plans.
- Substantial paid time off including holidays, vacation, and sick time.
- Generous 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses and children.
Work Mode
This is a hybrid role based at the University Park campus in State College, PA.
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer 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.
