📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Part-Time Marketing Support (Social)
🔹 Company: Penn State University
🔹 Location: Penn State University Park, State College, PA
🔹 Job Type: Part-Time, On-Site
🔹 Category: Marketing
🔹 Date Posted: April 4, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)
🔹 Remote Status: On-Site
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Supporting Student Affairs' social media presence on Instagram and TikTok
- Collaborating with the social media specialist to create engaging content
- Monitoring social media channels and engaging with followers
- Analyzing social media performance and providing recommendations
- Staying updated on social media trends and best practices
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong understanding of social media platforms, particularly Instagram and TikTok, and the ability to create engaging content that resonates with students.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Assist in developing, scheduling, and publishing content for Student Affairs’ social media channels, Instagram and TikTok.
✅ Monitor social media channels, respond to inquiries, and engage with followers to foster community and maintain a strong and positive online presence.
✅ Use analytics tools to track social media performance, gather insights, and provide recommendations for content creation and increasing reach and engagement.
✅ Stay updated on social media trends and best practices to keep channels fresh, relevant, and engaging to our primary audience.
✅ Collaborate with campus partners, student organizations, and more to develop relationships and source unique and authentic perspectives and stories.
ASSUMPTION: This role requires strong communication skills, creativity, and the ability to work collaboratively with various campus partners.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Pursuing or recently completed a degree in Marketing, Communications, or a related field (preferred but not required)
Experience: Demonstrated experience in managing and engaging in social media platforms, particularly Instagram and TikTok
Required Skills:
- Knowledge of social media analytics tools
- Experience creating and posting schedules
- Strong time management and self-motivation skills
- Creativity and attention to detail
- Collaborative spirit
Preferred Skills:
- Comfort with photography and videography conceptualization, creation, animation, and editing
- Comfort with using cell phones and more advanced camera equipment
ASSUMPTION: While a degree in Marketing or Communications is preferred, the most important qualifications for this role are relevant experience and a strong understanding of social media platforms.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $12 - $15 per hour (Estimated based on industry standards for part-time marketing roles)
Benefits:
- Gain real-world experience in digital marketing, communications, and campus engagement
- Build a robust portfolio and grow knowledge of events and resources on campus
- Impact the student experience and learn from a dedicated team
Working Hours: Up to 20 hours per week, with some events requiring coverage during evenings and weekends
ASSUMPTION: The salary range is estimated based on industry standards for part-time marketing roles. Actual compensation may vary based on experience and qualifications.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Higher Education
Company Size: Large (Over 1,000 employees)
Founded: 1855
Company Description:
- Penn State University is a large, public research university with a strong focus on student success and wellness
- The Student Affairs division supports student life on campus, representing over 25 units and programs
- The university is committed to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all its forms
Company Specialties:
- Student Affairs and Campus Life
- Student Wellness and Health
- Career Success and Development
Company Website: Penn State University
ASSUMPTION: Penn State University is a large, well-established institution with a strong commitment to student success and wellness.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Entry-Level
Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Social Media Specialist within the Student Affairs Communications and Marketing team
Work Arrangement: On-site, with some flexibility for remote work during certain events
Growth Opportunities:
- Gain real-world experience in digital marketing and campus engagement
- Build a robust portfolio and grow knowledge of events and resources on campus
- Potential for full-time employment or career advancement within the university
ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant growth opportunities for the right candidate, including the chance to build a portfolio and gain valuable experience in the field.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: University campus
Office Location(s): Penn State University Park, State College, PA
Geographic Context:
- State College is a college town with a population of approximately 42,000
- The university campus is located in the heart of the town, with easy access to amenities and attractions
- The area offers a mix of urban and rural environments, with plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities
Work Schedule: Up to 20 hours per week, with some events requiring coverage during evenings and weekends
ASSUMPTION: The work schedule for this role may vary depending on the events and activities taking place on campus.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission
- Phone or video screening
- In-person or virtual interview with the hiring manager
- Background check (if selected for the position)
Key Assessment Areas:
- Social media knowledge and experience
- Creativity and attention to detail
- Collaboration and communication skills
- Time management and self-motivation
Application Tips:
- Highlight relevant social media experience and any relevant coursework or projects
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to emphasize your skills and qualifications for this specific role
- Be prepared to discuss your understanding of social media trends and best practices
ATS Keywords: Social Media Management, Content Creation, Analytics, Engagement, Photography, Videography, Editing, Time Management, Creativity, Collaboration, Trend Awareness, Community Building
ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role may vary depending on the specific needs of the hiring manager and the university's human resources department.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Social media platforms (Instagram, TikTok)
- Analytics tools (Hootsuite, Sprout Social, or other platforms)
- Photography and videography equipment (cell phones, cameras)
ASSUMPTION: The specific tools and technologies required for this role may vary depending on the university's preferences and the needs of the Student Affairs Communications and Marketing team.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Student-centered
- Inclusive
- Collaborative
- Innovative
- Respectful
Work Style:
- Creative and innovative
- Collaborative and team-oriented
- Adaptable and flexible
- Results-driven
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you align with Penn State University's commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability?
- Are you comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with a mix of on-site and remote work?
- Do you have a collaborative work style and enjoy working with various campus partners?
ASSUMPTION: Penn State University values a diverse and inclusive work environment, and candidates who align with these values are likely to be a strong fit for the organization.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Balancing the demands of social media management with other academic or extracurricular responsibilities
- Adapting to the dynamic nature of social media trends and best practices
- Managing work-life balance, especially during high-volume events or activities
- Navigating the unique culture and politics of a large university
ASSUMPTION: While this role offers significant growth opportunities, it also presents unique challenges that candidates should be prepared to navigate.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- This role is similar to other part-time social media internships or coordinator positions within higher education or marketing agencies
- However, this role offers the unique opportunity to work directly with a large university's Student Affairs division and gain experience in campus engagement and student success
- Career paths for this role may include full-time employment within the university or transition to other marketing or communications roles within the industry
ASSUMPTION: While this role shares similarities with other part-time social media internships, it offers unique opportunities and career paths specific to higher education.
📝 Sample Projects
- Creating and executing a social media campaign to promote a campus event or initiative
- Developing and implementing a content calendar to ensure consistent and engaging social media presence
- Analyzing social media performance and providing data-driven recommendations for improvement
ASSUMPTION: These sample projects are designed to give candidates a sense of the types of tasks and responsibilities they may encounter in this role.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the most pressing priorities for this role in the first 30-60-90 days?
- How does this role fit into the broader Student Affairs Communications and Marketing team and the university's overall goals?
- What opportunities are there for growth and professional development within this role and the university?
- How does the university support work-life balance for part-time employees?
- What are the most challenging aspects of this role, and how can I best prepare to succeed in them?
ASSUMPTION: These key questions are designed to help candidates better understand the role, the team, and the university, and to demonstrate their interest and engagement in the position.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through the Workday application portal
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant social media experience and skills
- Prepare examples of your previous social media work, if applicable
- Follow up with the hiring manager within one week of submitting your application to express your interest in the role
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
