Communications & Media Coordinator
(Public Affairs/Communications Specialist II)

Compensation and Benefits

Anticipated Hiring Salary Range: $3,761 - $4,000 per month

Full CSU Classification Salary Range: $3,761 - $6,803 per month

• This is a full-time, probationary, exempt position.

The CSU system provides a comprehensive benefit package that includes medical, dental and vision plans, membership in the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS), sick and vacation time, and 14 paid holidays a year. Eligible employees are also able to participate in the fee waiver education program. A summary of benefit information can be found here.

Job Summary

Under the supervision of the Dean of the College of Science and Mathematics or his designee and in consultation with the Dean, Associate Dean, or other appropriate managers of the College of Science and Mathematics, this position is responsible for media relations and the creation and dissemination of communications for the College, its departments and centers, and other College-related entities.  This position identifies topics that are of news value and writes related stories and press releases, in close consultation with University Communications, creates, manages, and implements media updates, working closely with University Communications, and maintains strong relations with department chairs, center directors, and the development director in promoting the College’s activities and accomplishments to its students, faculty, the University community, the San Joaquin Valley, CSM alumni and donors.  

Responsibilities include writing compelling stories and the creation and dissemination of communications on behalf of the College while assisting College departments and programs with messaging in their specific units.  This position researches, creates, manages, and implements media updates, manages digital and physical signage, promotes the College through social media, and maintains strong relationships with the University and community.  Along with University Communications, the incumbent is expected to work closely with other academic communication specialists to ensure that proper branding is followed and a consistent campus strategy is developed and executed to advance the academic mission of the College and the University.  Work is performed autonomously under general supervision and requires regular exercising of judgment and discretion to interpret policies, procedures, and objectives.  Work is reviewed against overall goals and objectives, with full accountability for results, and soundness of judgement.

Key Qualifications

• Working knowledge of and ability to apply industry best practices (standard theories, principles, and techniques) related to communications in the public affairs, media, marketing information areas.
• Working knowledge of copyright and other applicable laws pertaining to publications and the media.
• Working knowledge of marketing and research techniques and methods.
• Thorough knowledge of and ability to use effectively media outlets including planning media coverage and media publicity campaigns for the university and events.
• Thorough knowledge of web communication techniques, vehicles, and formats.
• Knowledge of interview techniques and the ability to define and deliver media messages.
• Strong story development and journalistic writing skills, as well as advanced editorial skills.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, including strong public speaking, listening and interpretive skills.
• Knowledge of computer office systems and ability to use a broad range of technology, systems, and software packages (Microsoft Office Suite, Google apps, social media).
• Skill/Ability to:
  • Exceptional interpersonal skills, including strong public speaking, listening and interpretive skills.  
  • Good project management and time management skills.
  • Build and manage more sophisticated media contacts.
  • Effectively use web technology and social media to achieve communication goals.
  • Analyze and select pertinent facts and integrate them into communication vehicles.
  • Apply market research to identify communication needs and target audiences.
  • Provide lead work direction.
  • Demonstrated ability to keep abreast of campus events and subject matter expertise in relation to current events to identify and capitalize on media opportunities that will promote the university and increase positive media coverage.
  • Strong story development and journalistic writing skills, as well as advanced editorial skills.
  • Create and update webpage content using content management systems.
  • Independently manage multiple, concurrent assignments, working successfully to complete projects on time.
  • Work independently and take initiative to develop projects, find resources, solve problems, and obtain information.
  • Appropriately handle sensitive and confidential information.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships within and outside the work group and serve as a liaison for the unit to other academic departments.
  • Independently handle multiple and competing work priorities.
  • Work effectively in a highly consultative and collaborative environment.
  • Identify and pitch story ideas to university officials, University Communications, and media outlets.
  • Research and repurpose various content for social media posting.
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To view the full list of qualifications and job responsibilities, please click the Position Description button above.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree from a four-year regionally accredited institution which includes relevant coursework in the field.
• Minimum three years of professional or technical experience in the field of media relations, communications, website design and management, publications development, marketing and research or related field.
• Preferred Skills:
  • Experience with graphic design.
  • Experience with video editing.
  • Thorough knowledge of and ability to write compelling press releases and news stories to garner media coverage of programs, news, and events in the College.
  • Knowledge of university communication objectives and ability to translate them into effective communication and media campaigns.
  • Working knowledge of protocols and etiquette related to public relations and media relations.
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Department Summary

We are dedicated to the holistic preparation of the next generation of scientists and mathematicians for vital and diverse careers in STEM using innovative High Impact Practices.

Deadline & Application Instructions

Applications received by March 12, 2023 will be given full consideration by the search committee.

• Applications received after that date will be forwarded at the request of the Hiring Manager and/or search committee.

Please click “Apply Now” to complete the employment application for California State University, Fresno. Interested applicants must complete the application and attach the following: 1) their most recent resumé/vitae, 2) a cover letter that addresses their specific qualifications and interest, and 3) contact information for three professional references.

Fresno State

California State University, Fresno is one of 23 campuses in the California State University System. The University's mission is to boldly educate and empower students for success through our values of Discovery, Diversity and Distinction. The current student population is more than 25,000, including a large percentage of students with diverse and culturally rich backgrounds. The University serves the San Joaquin Valley while maintaining deep involvement with the state, nation, and across the globe.

Metropolitan Fresno, with a multi-ethnic population of over 527,000, is located in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley. The campus is within driving distance of Yosemite, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks, San Francisco, Los Angeles, the Monterey Peninsula, beaches, sailing, lakes, and numerous ski resorts. Fresno boasts one of the most reasonable housing markets in California and offers a wide array of locally grown fruits and produce.

Equal Employment Opportunity Information

California State University, Fresno is committed to maintaining and implementing employment policies and procedures in compliance with applicable state and federal equal employment opportunity laws and regulations. Executive Orders 1096 and 1097 prohibit discrimination, harassment, and retaliation on the basis of a protected status: race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, sex (including gender identity), sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, mental disability, physical disability, medical condition and covered veteran status. Fresno State's commitment to diversity informs our efforts in recruitment, hiring, and retention. We are proud to be an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer.

Vaccination Interim Policy

Supplemental Information

Following a conditional offer of employment, a background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate may start work with California State University, Fresno. Failure to satisfactorily complete the background check may result in the withdrawal of the offer of employment. Current employees who are offered positions on campus will be required to undergo a background check for any position where a background check is required by law or that Fresno State has identified as sensitive.

The person holding this position is considered a "mandated reporter" under the California Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act and is required to comply with the requirements set forth in CSU Executive Order 1083 as a condition of employment.

This position may be a "designated position" under the California State University's Conflict of Interest Code. This will require the filing of a Statement of Economic Interest on an annual basis and the completion of training within six (6) months of assuming office and every two (2) years thereafter.

Fresno State is a tobacco-free, smoke-free and vapor-free campus.

Fresno State is not a sponsoring agency for staff or management positions. (e.g. H1-B Visas)