PUBLIC RELATIONS AND MEDIA SPECIALIST
State of Louisiana, Natchitoches, LA, United States
Position Overview
The Public Relations and Media Specialist plays a critical role in advancing the public image of Northwestern State University by developing and sharing impactful stories with the media and broader community. This position blends multimedia storytelling, strategic communication, and relationship management to promote the university’s mission, programs, people, and events. The specialist works collaboratively with university leadership, faculty, and departments to identify newsworthy content, coordinate media efforts, and maintain strong relationships with journalists and news outlets throughout the region. With a focus on proactive outreach and authentic engagement, this role helps shape how the university is perceived locally and beyond.
Job Description The Public Relations and Media Specialist serves as a key communicator between Northwestern State University and local, regional, and statewide media outlets. This position is responsible for developing and distributing engaging multimedia content that highlights university initiatives, achievements, events, and impact stories. Through strategic media outreach and strong relationship-building, the specialist helps shape public perception and elevate the institution’s visibility across traditional and digital platforms. The Public Relations and Media Specialist will report to the Director of Public Information and Media Relations.
Key Responsibilities
Create compelling multimedia content (photography, video, interviews, written stories) for external media distribution.
Act as a liaison between the university and media outlets to ensure timely and accurate coverage.
Develop and pitch story ideas that align with the university’s brand, mission, and strategic goals.
Coordinate media coverage of events, press conferences, and special initiatives.
Build and maintain strong relationships with local and regional journalists and outlets.
Monitor media coverage and maintain a press archive.
Collaborate with internal departments to identify stories and ensure message consistency.
Provide media training and support for faculty, staff, and student spokespeople when necessary.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field. Equivalent professional experience or relevant experience in other fields will also be considered.
Relevant experience in media relations, public relations, multimedia journalism, strategic communications, or related work.
Demonstrated ability to produce photo, video, and written content for public audiences.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Understanding of the local and regional media environment, or the ability to quickly build media relationships.
Ability to work under deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Knowledge of AP Style and media best practices.
Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite, content management systems, and social media platforms preferred.
Preferred Skills and Characteristics
Exceptional Communicator: Skilled in writing, editing, and speaking clearly and effectively across diverse audiences.
Storyteller Mindset: Strong ability to craft compelling, human-centered stories that align with institutional goals.
Media‑Savvy: Deep understanding of media operations, news cycles, and what drives coverage.
Multimedia Expertise: Proficient in photography, video production, and digital content creation for news and promotional purposes.
Strategic Thinker: Ability to align communications with broader university priorities and adapt messages accordingly. Relationship Builder: Comfortable cultivating and maintaining long‑term relationships with media contacts and internal stakeholders.
Deadline‑Driven: Efficient under pressure, able to manage competing priorities and deliver timely results.
Detail‑Oriented: Careful and thorough in fact‑checking, formatting, and finalizing communications materials.
Collaborative Spirit: Works well with cross‑functional teams and thrives in a dynamic, fast‑paced environment.
Adaptable and Curious: Open to feedback, willing to learn new tools, and passionate about higher education and public engagement.
Salary and Benefits Northwestern State University offers an annual salary range of $42,000 to $48,000 and a comprehensive benefits package, commensurate with experience and qualifications. This is a full‑time, 12‑month position that includes some evening, weekend, and travel commitments.
About Northwestern State University Founded in 1884 as the Louisiana State Normal School, Northwestern State University is the oldest continually occupied site for higher education in Louisiana. The university has grown to serve students across the region, including off‑campus sites in Shreveport, Alexandria, and Fort Polk. As a responsive, student‑oriented institution, NWU is committed to innovative teaching, research, and service, empowering students to make meaningful contributions to the global community.
Mission, Vision, Core Values Mission: Northwestern State University is a responsive, student‑oriented institution committed to acquiring, creating, and disseminating knowledge through innovative teaching, research, and service. Vision: NWU will become the nation’s premier regional university through the innovative delivery of transformative student learning experiences that prepare graduates for life and career success. Core Values: student priority, future focus, innovation, respect for freedom, stewardship, integrity, teamwork.
EEO Statement Northwestern State University provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Application Information Please submit your cover letter, updated resume, complete contact information for 2 professional references, and a work sample to apply@nsula.edu.
Contact for Title IX and ADA Title IX: Director Julie Powell (318‑357‑5570), Room 306, Friedman Student Union or obannonj@nsula.edu. ADA Coordinator: Jennifer Kelly (318‑357‑4300), New Fine Arts, 104 Central Avenue, Ste. 102 or andersonje@nsula.edu. Access and Disability Support: Crissey Smith (318‑357‑5460), Room 108‑C Watson Memorial Library or smithcr@nsula.edu. Human Resources: Veronica M. Biscoe (318‑357‑6359), Room 111 Caspari Hall or ramirezv@nsula.edu.
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Job Description The Public Relations and Media Specialist serves as a key communicator between Northwestern State University and local, regional, and statewide media outlets. This position is responsible for developing and distributing engaging multimedia content that highlights university initiatives, achievements, events, and impact stories. Through strategic media outreach and strong relationship-building, the specialist helps shape public perception and elevate the institution’s visibility across traditional and digital platforms. The Public Relations and Media Specialist will report to the Director of Public Information and Media Relations.
Key Responsibilities
Create compelling multimedia content (photography, video, interviews, written stories) for external media distribution.
Act as a liaison between the university and media outlets to ensure timely and accurate coverage.
Develop and pitch story ideas that align with the university’s brand, mission, and strategic goals.
Coordinate media coverage of events, press conferences, and special initiatives.
Build and maintain strong relationships with local and regional journalists and outlets.
Monitor media coverage and maintain a press archive.
Collaborate with internal departments to identify stories and ensure message consistency.
Provide media training and support for faculty, staff, and student spokespeople when necessary.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field. Equivalent professional experience or relevant experience in other fields will also be considered.
Relevant experience in media relations, public relations, multimedia journalism, strategic communications, or related work.
Demonstrated ability to produce photo, video, and written content for public audiences.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Understanding of the local and regional media environment, or the ability to quickly build media relationships.
Ability to work under deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Knowledge of AP Style and media best practices.
Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite, content management systems, and social media platforms preferred.
Preferred Skills and Characteristics
Exceptional Communicator: Skilled in writing, editing, and speaking clearly and effectively across diverse audiences.
Storyteller Mindset: Strong ability to craft compelling, human-centered stories that align with institutional goals.
Media‑Savvy: Deep understanding of media operations, news cycles, and what drives coverage.
Multimedia Expertise: Proficient in photography, video production, and digital content creation for news and promotional purposes.
Strategic Thinker: Ability to align communications with broader university priorities and adapt messages accordingly. Relationship Builder: Comfortable cultivating and maintaining long‑term relationships with media contacts and internal stakeholders.
Deadline‑Driven: Efficient under pressure, able to manage competing priorities and deliver timely results.
Detail‑Oriented: Careful and thorough in fact‑checking, formatting, and finalizing communications materials.
Collaborative Spirit: Works well with cross‑functional teams and thrives in a dynamic, fast‑paced environment.
Adaptable and Curious: Open to feedback, willing to learn new tools, and passionate about higher education and public engagement.
Salary and Benefits Northwestern State University offers an annual salary range of $42,000 to $48,000 and a comprehensive benefits package, commensurate with experience and qualifications. This is a full‑time, 12‑month position that includes some evening, weekend, and travel commitments.
About Northwestern State University Founded in 1884 as the Louisiana State Normal School, Northwestern State University is the oldest continually occupied site for higher education in Louisiana. The university has grown to serve students across the region, including off‑campus sites in Shreveport, Alexandria, and Fort Polk. As a responsive, student‑oriented institution, NWU is committed to innovative teaching, research, and service, empowering students to make meaningful contributions to the global community.
Mission, Vision, Core Values Mission: Northwestern State University is a responsive, student‑oriented institution committed to acquiring, creating, and disseminating knowledge through innovative teaching, research, and service. Vision: NWU will become the nation’s premier regional university through the innovative delivery of transformative student learning experiences that prepare graduates for life and career success. Core Values: student priority, future focus, innovation, respect for freedom, stewardship, integrity, teamwork.
EEO Statement Northwestern State University provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.
Application Information Please submit your cover letter, updated resume, complete contact information for 2 professional references, and a work sample to apply@nsula.edu.
Contact for Title IX and ADA Title IX: Director Julie Powell (318‑357‑5570), Room 306, Friedman Student Union or obannonj@nsula.edu. ADA Coordinator: Jennifer Kelly (318‑357‑4300), New Fine Arts, 104 Central Avenue, Ste. 102 or andersonje@nsula.edu. Access and Disability Support: Crissey Smith (318‑357‑5460), Room 108‑C Watson Memorial Library or smithcr@nsula.edu. Human Resources: Veronica M. Biscoe (318‑357‑6359), Room 111 Caspari Hall or ramirezv@nsula.edu.
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