Public Relations Specialist

Position Overview
Penn State’s Office of Strategic Communications seeks a communications professional, storyteller, and editor. The successful candidate will influence and develop communications on a wide range of topics for a vast University community and the public. This individual will also play an important supporting role in the editorial oversight and production of Penn State Today, the University’s flagship daily community email publication with a circulation of 150,000, lead and support the development of news and feature content on Penn State News, the University’s official news source, and assist with administrative and institutional communications priorities. This is an exciting opportunity for an early‑career professional to learn and grow alongside a team of dedicated colleagues at one of the world’s top public research universities. The position offers a hybrid work arrangement that combines remote and on‑campus working. Some evening and weekend hours will be required.

Key Responsibilities

Support the editorial oversight and production of the Penn State Today electronic newsletter, which is sent to students, faculty, and staff across all Penn State campus locations and to external subscribers

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

Assist with editing news stories submitted by communications professionals from across Penn State

Play a key role in monthly monitoring and reporting on overall performance of Strategic Communications’ owned news communications platforms

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

Preferred Skills And Experience

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

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications
Bachelor’s Degree plus 1+ years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Required Certifications: None.

Salary & Benefits
The salary range for this position is $46,400.00 – $67,300.00.

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, including holidays, vacation, and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees and eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

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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