Communications Specialist II

Job Title

Communications Specialist II

Agency

Texas A&M Agrilife Extension Service

Department

Marketing and Communications

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

College Station, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

The Communication Specialist II will play a vital role in creating and sharing impactful news from Texas A&M AgriLife. As one of the primary writers for AgriLife Today, the official online magazine and news platform, this individual will produce high-quality content, including news articles, feature stories and more, highlighting AgriLife's teaching, research and Extension initiatives. A successful candidate will proactively pursue compelling stories, form and nurture relationships across the units within AgriLife, stay abreast of the news cycle and support media placements to elevate AgriLife's visibility and impact.

Responsibilities:

• Serve as a primary writer for AgriLife Today, producing content tailored to external audiences.
• Manage general assignments and adapt to various topics within agriculture, life sciences, healthy living and other AgriLife focus areas.
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, students and leadership to identify and develop engaging stories that align with Texas A&M AgriLife's mission and strategic priorities.
• Build relationships across AgriLife units to stay informed about newsworthy developments.
• Seek and proactively identify new and engaging topics and opportunities for coverage.
• Partner with the media relations team to develop and pitch stories to local, state and national media outlets.
• Contribute to the development and execution of communication strategies that enhance AgriLife’s reputation.
• Ensure content adheres to branding guidelines and maintains consistency in voice and tone.
• Track and analyze performance metrics to evaluate the impact of content and adjust strategies accordingly.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, public relations or a related field.
• Two years of experience in writing, editing or media relations.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Exceptional writing, editing and storytelling skills with attention to accuracy and detail.
• Proven ability to work under tight deadlines and handle multiple assignments simultaneously.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to form relationships with various stakeholders.
• Ability to multi-task and work cooperatively with others.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in agriculture, life sciences, or science communication.
• Familiarity with media relations practices and securing media placements.
• Proficiency in AP style and knowledge of digital communication tools.

Applicant Instructions: A cover letter and resume are strongly recommended. You may upload them on the application under the CV/Resume section.

Salary: Pay Grade 9

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution’s verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution’s procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer.