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Public Relations and Media Specialist

About this Job
Northwestern State University seeks qualified applicants for the position of Public Relations and Media Specialist.

To apply: Please submit your cover letter, updated resume, complete contact information for 2 professional references, and a work sample to apply@nsula.edu.

Northwestern State University is a State as a Model Employer (SAME) agency.

The successful candidate will be subject to a background check, as a condition of employment.

NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION (FULL DISCLOSURE)

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.

All complaints or inquiries related to Title IX should be directed to the Director of Title IX Compliance and Title IX Coordinator, Julie Powell (318-357-5570), Room 306 of the Friedman Student Union or email obannonj@nsula.edu.  

In accordance with Section 35.106 of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), all participants, applicants, organizations, and interested individuals are advised and notified that the ADA Coordinator for Northwestern State University for facilities is the Director of University Affairs, Jennifer Kelly (318-357-4300), located in New Fine Arts, 104 Central Avenue, Ste. 102 or email andersonje@nsula.edu. For student academic services, contact the Director of Access and Disability Support, Crissey Smith (318-357-5460) located in Room 108-C Watson Memorial Library or email smithcr@nsula.edu.  For faculty/staff accommodations and services, contact Executive Director of Institutional Effectiveness and Human Resources, Veronica M. Biscoe (318-357-6359), Room 111 Caspari Hall or email ramirezv@nsula.edu.

*Inquiries regarding employment application status should be emailed to apply@nsula.edu.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field
2-5 years of experience in media relations, public relations, or multimedia journalism
Demonstrated ability to produce photo, video, and written content for public audiences
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Strong understanding of the local and regional media landscape
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

Job Duties and Other Information


Create compelling multimedia content (photography, video, interviews, written I 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


Company Info

Northwestern State University

175 Sam Sibley Dr.
Natchitoches, LA 71497

(318) 357-5513

Northwestern State University