Public Relations Specialist

Classification Title:

Public Relations Specialist II

Classification Minimum Requirements:

Master’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization; or a Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization and two years of appropriate experience.

Job Description:

As a key member of the UF/IFAS Communications team, the Media Relations Specialist will research, write, and distribute compelling stories that highlight UF/IFAS research, education, and Extension programs. The successful candidate will work closely with faculty, staff, and media professionals to increase visibility, promote expert knowledge, and enhance the reputation of UF/IFAS across Florida and beyond.

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 university's 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 at https://ics.ifas.ufl.edu/.

Expected Salary:

$53,000-60,000; commensurate with education and experience.

Required Qualifications:

Master’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization; or a Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization and two years of appropriate experience.

Preferred:

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 Instructions to Applicants:

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.

Health Assessment Required:No