Department
Communications
Metropolitan State University of Denver is in search of a motivated media relations specialist, writer and content strategist. The media relations specialist is a dynamic storyteller with effective communications skills who excels at crafting stories on deadline and working with faculty experts and journalists to coordinate earned-media opportunities. Proficient with juggling multiple requests, the media relations specialist will serve in a wide range of communication support roles with internal clients throughout the University.
The media relations specialist is part of a talented and dedicated editorial team focused on telling MSU Denver’s unique story through the media and across the University’s communications platforms, including MSU Denver’s award-winning online newsroom, RED. The media relations specialist and writer will also work to develop and coordinate proactive earned-media opportunities, leveraging University stories, experts and content.
Serving as a secondary spokesperson on key communication initiatives and issues. Works with University Communications and Marketing leadership to ensure accurate and consistent public communication and messaging about MSU Denver and it’s role and mission. This position reports to the senior director of media and public relations in the office of University Communications and Marketing.
The media relations specialist and writer:
Works with the senior director of media and public relations in developing, managing and maintaining a proactive earned media strategy that leverages University stories and experts to generate coverage that advances the institution’s mission and goals.
Is comfortable with and has experience working in an ever-changing media environment and can problem solve to maximize results and overcome obstacles.
Crafts succinct, descriptive and compelling stories in a journalistic style that support University strategic priorities.
Is a nimble multi-tasker, capable of turning writing assignments quickly in a fast-paced environment.
Has a strong understanding of visual content and how it can be best used to support story development, pitches and media needs.
40% Media relations support, including pitching stories, responding to media requests for experts and coordinating interviews.
Secures approval from students, faculty, facilities officials, campus parking or other campus representatives when necessary for photography, videography or other news-gathering needs.
Works with the senior director of media and public relations to gather, validate and disseminate related information including identifying and delivering photos, b-roll and other visual assets to media organizations.
30% Writing, including daily and long-term news stories, media advisories, website content and other external and internal communications.
15% Develops and publishes compelling website content, including faculty bios and imagery.
10% Media coverage reporting and tracking
5% Other duties as assigned
Under guidance of the senior director of media public relations, schedule meetings and interviews with media, faculty, staff and students to support strategic priorities.
- Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, public relations, public affairs or related field.
- Professional writing experience, as demonstrated by a portfolio of published work.
- Experience working in a professional environment both independently and on a team, in both on-site and remote-working environments.
- Experience working in the news media or in a media relations role.
- Demonstrated written and verbal communications skills.
- Demonstrated experience gathering, analyzing and reporting data.
- Experience working with both traditional and Spanish language media.
Important Note: Successful applicants will ensure their resumes clearly demonstrate that their work experience describes how they meet all required qualifications.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree and 5 years of progressive experience in journalism communications, public relations, public affairs or related field.
- Experience as a writer, editor or producer for a news organization, as demonstrated by a portfolio of published work.
- Experience cultivating a network of subject-matter experts to support proactive and reactive media relations.
- Experience using WordPress or similar website content management system.
- Experience using media-tracking platforms, such as Meltwater, Cision or TVEyes.
- Fluency in both English and Spanish to effectively communicate with our diverse community and related media.
Schedule Information
Full-time, 40 hours per week
Exempt
Days of the Week: Mon – Fri
Evenings and Weekend Work: As needed
Schedule: Primarily in person with hybrid flexibility
Travel: Rarely
Salary for Announcement
Under Colorado law, MSU Denver is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role and should not offer a salary outside of the range posted in this job announcement. This range takes into account a variety of factors including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, analysis of internal equity, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience.
The salary range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $50,000.00 - $62,000.00.
This position is paid monthly and is eligible for MSU Denver benefits.
Instructions to Apply
To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by 11:59pm (MT) 09/25/2024
For full consideration, please submit the following documents:
Resume
Cover letter describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position
Please include a link or links to a portfolio of at least three published articles that demonstrate professional public relations, news or feature writing experience. Portfolio links can be uploaded in a separate document or included in cover letter or resume.
Official transcripts will be required of the candidate selected for hire.
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Posting Representative
Sophia J Montano
Posting Representative Email
smontan7@msudenver.edu
Benefits
The University’s benefits package is comprehensive and offers medical, vision and dental, free RTD pass, tuition reimbursement, as well as a life and supplemental insurance plans, retirement plans and other programs, such as access to a long-term disability (LTD) plan. Visit MSU Denver’s benefits website to learn more.
For a brief overview, please see: https://www.msudenver.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/MSU-Benefit-Summary.pdf.
The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at totalrewards@msudenver.edu.
Diversity Statement
Metropolitan State University of Denver is a unique, access-oriented campus community that values diversity, equity, and inclusion in all its forms. Our student population consists of nearly 58% first generation students and over 50% students of color. We are a designated Hispanic Serving Institution located in downtown Denver.
We create an equitable learning and working environment in concert with individuals who consistently demonstrate commitment to equity and inclusion. We greatly value the diverse identities and perspectives of our students, faculty, and staff and recognize that in order to achieve a just and equitable society, diversity must go beyond simple representation. It requires critical inquiry and dialogue and a commitment to action. We strive to provide a culture of belonging for all community members to achieve personal and professional success.
