Marketing and Communications Specialist (News Writer)

Application Instructions

Current Penn State employees (faculty, staff, technical service, or student) must log in to Workday and complete the internal application process. Current Penn State students (not previously employed) must log in to Workday and complete the student application process. If you are not a current employee or student, click "Apply" and complete the external applicant process.

Position specifics

The College of Agricultural Sciences at Penn State is seeking a Marketing Communications Specialist (News Writer). The role reports to the associate director of communications, resides mainly on the University Park campus with a flexible work arrangement, and requires onsite presence for one to two days per week.

Responsibilities

Research story ideas monthly, interview sources, and write compelling press releases and feature stories 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 handle media events.

Track effectiveness and engagement of media placements through the Meltwater monitoring platform and provide media reports to leadership; monitor consumer and industry trends.

Serve as a liaison to the public and media at special events such as tradeshows and community engagement initiatives.

Oversee and direct freelance writers and student interns, mentoring them on interview techniques, story development, editing, and use of style guides.

Develop and foster relationships with faculty, students and staff, and external communications contacts.

Participate in the design or editing of digital content, graphics, photography, and other multimedia products.

Ensure compliance with accessibility standards, contractual obligations, confidentiality and privacy policies, and style and standard guidelines.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications

Intermediate Professional : Bachelor’s Degree and 1+ year relevant experience (or equivalent education and experience).

Advanced Professional : Bachelor’s Degree and 3+ years relevant experience (or equivalent education and experience).

Required Certifications : None.

Qualifications

Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Knowledge of AP style and strong editing skills.

Experience working with multiple media platforms.

Experience in news and / or science / technical writing preferred.

Experience with Meltwater.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit a cover letter, resume, and three writing samples.

Background Checks / Clearances

Employment will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position is $46,400.00 - $74,000.00.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees, including medical, dental, vision coverage, retirement plans, paid time off (holidays, vacation, sick time), and a 75% tuition discount for employees and eligible spouses / children.

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.

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