Public Relations Specialist

Public Relations Specialist II

Masters degree in an appropriate area of specialization; or a Bachelors degree in an appropriate area of specialization and two years of appropriate experience.

Media Relations & Science Writing

• Research develop and write news releases feature stories media pitches blog content and other communications materials that highlight UF/IFAS research Extension programs and educational initiatives. Identify emerging story opportunities and collaborate with faculty staff and communicators to develop compelling content for traditional and digital media channels.
• Translate complex scientific topics into accurate engaging and accessible content for a variety of audiences while ensuring consistency with organizational goals and messaging priorities. Coordinate with photography video graphic design and digital content teams to create multimedia storytelling opportunities that increase audience engagement and media interest.

Strategic Media Outreach & Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with local state national and industry media outlets. Regularly pitch story ideas connect journalists with subject matter experts respond to media inquiries and identify opportunities to elevate UF/IFAS expertise in news coverage and public discourse.
• Monitor media trends news cycles and industry developments to proactively identify opportunities for coverage. Manage media lists support strategic outreach efforts and strengthen relationships with agricultural natural resources science and public affairs journalists.

Communications Planning Reporting & Content Coordination

• Track media relations activities maintain project documentation and utilize project management systems to support workflow planning and reporting. Contribute to regular reporting efforts related to media placements communications projects and organizational visibility.
• Assist in content planning and coordination across the UF/IFAS communications network to ensure strategic alignment of messaging and maximize opportunities for amplification across channels.

Stakeholder Engagement & Organizational Support

• Develop strong working relationships with UF/IFAS faculty researchers administrators and Extension personnel to identify story opportunities and support strategic communications objectives. Provide public relations consultation and media relations support across the organization.
• Support communication efforts related to government relations initiatives and collaborate with internal partners to promote a positive public image of UF/IFAS.

Professional Development & Training

• Assist with media training and professional development opportunities for faculty and staff. Provide guidance on media engagement interview preparation storytelling strategies and best practices in public relations and science communication.
• Participate in professional development activities to remain current with media relations journalism science communication and evolving communications technologies and trends.

About Us

The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Communications team amplifies the reach of scientific knowledge through words technology art and video to connect with audiences wherever they are. We work to increase awareness of UF/IFAS expertise and showcase how the organization advances the universitys land-grant mission through teaching research and Extension. Through strategic communications and media engagement we help share the impact of UF/IFAS with students stakeholders industry partners policymakers and communities throughout Florida and beyond. Learn more about us athttps:// Salary:

$; commensurate with education and experience.

Masters degree in an appropriate area of specialization; or a Bachelors degree in an appropriate area of specialization and two years of appropriate experience.

The successful candidate will identify newsworthy research and programmatic developments develop compelling stories and media pitches and cultivate relationships with journalists to enhance visibility for UF/IFAS expertise at the local state and national levels. The ideal candidate is a strong writer with excellent news judgment a passion for storytelling and the ability to translate complex scientific information into content that resonates with broad audiences.

• Degree in journalism public relations communications or a closely related field.
• Professional experience in media relations journalism public affairs or strategic communications.
• Exceptional writing editing and proofreading skills.
• Experience translating scientific technical or research-based information into public-facing content.
• Strong understanding of local state and national news media.
• Knowledge of Associated Press (AP) Style.
• Experience developing media pitches and securing earned media coverage.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Experience working in higher education research agriculture natural resources government or nonprofit organizations.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Special Requirements

• Valid Florida Driver License required within 60 days of hire.
• Occasional travel within Florida for story development events and media opportunities.
• Occasional evening or weekend work may be required.

Special Instructions to Applicants

To be considered applicants must upload:

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• Three writing samples demonstrating news feature media relations or science communication work or a link to a writing portfolio

Application must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date.