Public Relations Specialist

Public Relations Specialist

Penn State's Office of Strategic Communications—the University's central public relations and marketing division—seeks a Public Relations Specialist to join its proactive media team. The person in this position will contribute to a centralized, strategic media relations team comprised of experienced professionals focused on elevating Penn State's reputation and thought leadership through proactive storytelling. This role will work collaboratively to identify compelling and differentiating stories, anticipate media opportunities, conduct reporter outreach, and develop pitches and media lists to further boost Penn State's visibility in influential local, regional, national, and international news outlets.

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

The person in this position will:

• Collaborate across teams in Strategic Communications, exploring how to effectively story tell around differentiating research and University strengths
• Develop and execute proactive media and communications plans aligned with institutional and Presidential priorities
• Identify newsworthy stories by partnering with internal stakeholders, subject-matter experts, and leadership
• Draft press materials, pitches, talking points, and backgrounders that translate complex topics into accessible narratives
• Build and maintain relationships with regional and national reporters
• Monitor media coverage, industry trends, and emerging news opportunities
• Track and analyze media placements, preparing regular reports that cover reach, sentiment, and impact
• Support long-term storytelling initiatives that elevate thought leadership and expertise
• Assist with editorial planning and media calendars

The ideal candidate will:

• Understand the media landscape, news cycles, and what drives earned coverage
• Have excellent organizational, writing, editing, and verbal communications skills
• Have a strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Be able to manage multiple projects and deadlines
• Have the ability to create clear, concise media reports for leadership and internal stakeholders
• Be a collaborative team player with high ethical and professional standards
• Interact effectively with a culturally and ethnically diverse population of students, faculty, and staff
• Be curious and interested in current events and media trends
• Have experience in strategic communications, public relations, journalism, marketing, or a similar discipline is preferred
• Knowledge of communications planning and traditional and non-traditional media strategies is a plus

Previous experience in a university setting is not required.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications

Bachelor's Degree; 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted; Required Certifications: None

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $56,200.00 - $81,500.00. 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. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.