Public Relations Specialist (South Florida)

Jackson County Florida 4-H • Full-time • North Port-Sarasota Area, US • 2w ago

Classification Title

Public Relations Specialist (South Florida)

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

The Public Relations Specialist serves as the primary communications and media relations representative for the South Florida region, which requires residency in South Florida as a remote/off-campus staff member. This position develops and executes strategic communications initiatives that increase awareness of UF/IFAS research, Extension, and education programs while strengthening relationships with key audiences and media outlets.

Media Relations & Story Development

Identify, research, write, and distribute press releases, feature stories, media advisories, blog content, and other communications materials.
Develop and pitch story ideas to local, regional, state, and national media outlets.
Respond to media inquiries and coordinate interviews with subject matter experts.
Build and maintain relationships with reporters, editors, producers, and other media representatives.
Monitor media coverage and identify opportunities to increase visibility for UF/IFAS programs and initiatives.

Strategic Communications & Content Planning

Implement communications plans and public relations strategies that support organizational goals and priorities.
Collaborate with faculty, Extension personnel, and subject matter experts to develop content for a wide array of audiences.
Translate technical and scientific information into clear, engaging, and accessible communications.
Coordinate messaging across media, web, digital, and social media platforms.
Ensure content aligns with UF/IFAS branding, messaging, and communication standards.

Outreach, Engagement & Program Support

Serve as a communications liaison for assigned program areas, including Extension initiatives and special projects.
Promote UF/IFAS achievements, programs, events, and resources through multi-channel communications efforts.
Support event communications, media coverage, and live social media engagement as needed.
Maintain editorial calendars and assist in prioritizing content opportunities.
Collaborate with communications team members and local offices to support coordinated outreach efforts.

Reporting, Training & Professional Development

Track projects, communications activities, and performance metrics using department project management systems.
Evaluate communications efforts and prepare reports to measure effectiveness and guide future strategies.
Provide communications guidance, media relations support, and training opportunities for faculty and staff.
Review and edit communications materials to ensure quality, accuracy, and consistency.
Stay current on industry trends, emerging communications tools, and best practices in public relations and strategic communications.

This position operates with a high degree of independence while collaborating closely with UF/IFAS Communications staff, faculty, Extension personnel, and external partners to advance the visibility and impact of UF/IFAS across South Florida.

Some travel is required throughout the State of Florida (primarily throughout South Florida) for events, meetings, conferences, story development, etc. (approximately 20% of work time on average). A valid driver license is required within 60 days (2 months) of hire date.

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

A degree in public relations, marketing, communications, journalism, or related field. Experience in development and implementation of communications campaigns, public relations campaigns, editorial planning, writing, editing, social media, and/or project management coordination. Experience with communicating scientific discoveries. Proficiency in Associated Press style. The ability to plan, organize and coordinate work assignments independently. Demonstrated ability to work as part of a team toward organizational objectives.

Special Instructions To Applicants

To be considered for this position, applicants must upload the following documents:

Cover letter or letter of interest
Curriculum Vitae (C.V.) or resume
List of professional references
Writing sample(s) or provide a link to a writing portfolio

Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the United States.

Applications must be submitted by 11:55 p.m. (ET) on the posting end date.

Health Assessment Required: No

Related Jobs

HVAC Building Automation Technician - R21043

Sarasota County Government • Full-time • Sarasota, Florida, United States • $22.14 - $24.42 / hour • 16h ago

Facilities Management

16h ago

Apply

Carlton Treatment Plant Maintenance - Skilled Trades Worker III - R20876

Sarasota County Government • Full-time • Sarasota, Florida, United States • from $24.42 / hour • 17h ago

Water and Wastewater

17h ago

Apply

Water Treatment Plant Operator A, B, Or C

City of Punta Gorda • Full-time • Punta Gorda, Florida, United States • $42.54k - $79.37k / year • 4d ago

Water and Wastewater Utilities water operator

4d ago

Apply

Right of Way Maintenance Trades Worker - R21008

Sarasota County Government • Full-time • Sarasota, Florida, United States • from $18.21 / hour • 5d ago

Transportation

5d ago

Apply

Solid Waste Environmental Specialist - R20712

Sarasota County Government • Full-time • Sarasota, Florida, United States • from $24.74 / hour • 5d ago

Other

5d ago

Apply

Fire Marshal - R20641

Sarasota County Government • Full-time • Sarasota, Florida, United States • from $135k / year • 6d ago

Fire

6d ago

Apply

Pretrial Services Intake Unit Supervisor - R21005

Sarasota County Government • Full-time • Sarasota, Florida, United States • from $64.81k / year • 6d ago

Courts

6d ago

Apply

South County Beaches Park Attendant (2nd Shift, Entry-Level!) - R21018

Sarasota County Government • Full-time • Sarasota, Florida, United States • from $17.34 / hour • 6d ago

Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources

6d ago

Apply

Parks Operation Specialist - Parks & Recreation Specialist III - R21013

Sarasota County Government • Full-time • Sarasota, Florida, United States • from $56.14k / year • 1w ago

Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources

1w ago

Apply

Field Inspector (Compliance/Maintenance Specialist II or III) - Land Development - R21021

Sarasota County Government • Full-time • Sarasota, Florida, United States • $22.94 - $31.54 / hour • 1w ago

Code Enforcement

1w ago

Apply