College of Health and Human Services Media Relations Officer (Marketing Communications Professional III)

Responsibilities

• Identify compelling stories across SDSU's research enterprise, particularly in health, science, and human services.
• Translate complex research into clear, engaging stories for SDSU NewsCenter, SDSU Magazine, websites, social media, external media pitching, and other channels.
• Develop multimedia and short-form content that expands the reach of research stories.
• Develop targeted pitches, news releases, media advisories, and communications plans.
• Build relationships with regional, national, and international reporters and identify opportunities to connect SDSU researchers and experts with the news.
• Coordinate interviews and prepare faculty and staff for media engagement.
• Respond to media inquiries and develop recommended messaging and statements.
• Serve as a key communications partner to CHHS faculty and leadership.
• Identify stories, develop communications strategies, and coordinate media relations, editorial, and social media efforts.
• Develop content for college communications, including newsletters, websites, and other digital channels.

Requirements

• Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree in a related field and four years of relevant experience. Additional experience which demonstrates acquired and successfully applied knowledge and abilities shown above may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis. An advanced degree in a related field may be substituted for the required experience on a year-for-year basis.
• Key Qualifications: Demonstrated experience in strategic communications, media relations, and science or research communications, preferably within a large organization.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills, with the ability to translate complex scientific, engineering, and technical information into clear, compelling content for broad audiences.
• Proven success developing media strategies, building relationships with reporters, and securing earned media coverage at the regional, national, or international level.
• Experience advising executives, faculty, researchers, or subject-matter experts on media engagement, strategic messaging, issues management, and reputational considerations.
• Ability to develop and execute integrated communications across earned media, digital, social, editorial, and multimedia channels.
• Demonstrated ability to independently manage complex, cross-functional communications projects, balance competing priorities, and collaborate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Experience using media analytics, audience insights, and performance data to evaluate communications efforts and inform strategy.
• Strong knowledge of communications and editorial best practices, including AP Style.
• Licenses/Certifications Required: Valid California Driver’s License or the ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire.

Preferred

• Preferred Qualifications: Knowledge of higher education communications and the research environment, particularly within a public research university.
• Professional proficiency in Spanish is desirable.

Benefits

• Full Benefits Package Includes :
• Generous Time Off : 15 paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Retirement : CalPERS pension plan with retiree healthcare, and reciprocal agreements with other California public retirement systems, including the UC.
• Health Coverage : Medical, dental, and vision options at low or no cost.
• Education Support : CSU tuition fee waiver for employees and eligible dependents.
• Optional Offerings : FlexCash, life and disability insurance, legal and pet plans.
• Campus & Community : Access to the library, campus events, employee groups, and volunteer and social activities.