📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Part-Time Marketing Communications Specialist
🔹 Company: Penn State University
🔹 Location: Penn State University Park, United States
🔹 Job Type: Part-Time, Hybrid
🔹 Category: Marketing & Communications
🔹 Date Posted: April 14, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: Intermediate (2-5 years)
🔹 Remote Status: On-site with hybrid flexibility
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Supporting the writing and editing needs of the Office of Strategic Communications for Undergraduate Education and Faculty Affairs
- Ensuring compliance with University marketing and branding policies
- Collaborating with staff across departments
- Consulting with colleagues across departments as needed
ASSUMPTION: This role requires strong writing and editing skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and maintain confidentiality.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Write and edit communications for various materials for internal and external distribution, which may include emails, publications, and digital content
✅ Follow brand guidelines and comply with university policies for all marketing materials
✅ Collaborate with the staff in the Office of Strategic Communications for Undergraduate Education and Faculty Affairs
✅ Consult with colleagues across departments as needed
ASSUMPTION: The successful candidate will have experience in writing and editing, as well as strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with diverse teams.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Associate’s degree or higher in Marketing, Communications, Journalism, or a related field
Experience: Minimum of three years of relevant experience in writing/editing, marketing, or communications
Required Skills:
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 (Word, Excel, Outlook)
- Strong writing and editing skills, with knowledge of Chicago editorial style and AP Style preferred
- Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and maintain a high level of confidentiality
Preferred Skills:
- Experience in higher education marketing and communications
- Familiarity with Penn State’s editorial and branding standards
ASSUMPTION: Candidates with relevant experience and strong writing and editing skills are encouraged to apply.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $40,000 - $50,000 per year (based on experience and qualifications)
Benefits:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement savings plan
- Tuition assistance
- Paid time off
Working Hours: 20 hours per week, with flexible scheduling
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for similar roles in higher education. The actual salary may vary depending on the candidate's qualifications and experience.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Higher Education
Company Size: Large (1,001-5,000 employees)
Founded: 1855
Company Description:
- Penn State University is a state-related research university with campuses and facilities throughout Pennsylvania
- It is one of the largest universities in the United States, with a student body of over 100,000
- The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University supports national security, economic competitiveness, and quality of life through Education, Scientific discovery, Technology demonstration, and Transition to application
Company Specialties:
- Research Engineering
- University Collaboration
- Communications Information and Navigation
- Fluid Dynamics and Acoustics
- Materials and Manufacturing
- Undersea Systems
Company Website: arl.psu.edu
ASSUMPTION: Penn State University is a large, well-established institution with a strong reputation in research and education.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Reporting Structure: This role reports to the Director of the Office of Strategic Communications for Undergraduate Education and Faculty Affairs
Work Arrangement: Hybrid, with a mix of on-site and remote work
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential for full-time employment or increased hours
- Opportunities for professional development and training
- Potential to work on a variety of projects and gain experience in different areas of marketing and communications
ASSUMPTION: This role offers opportunities for growth and development within the field of marketing and communications.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: University campus
Office Location(s): Penn State University Park, Pennsylvania
Geographic Context:
- Penn State University Park is located in central Pennsylvania, approximately 15 miles from State College
- The area offers a mix of urban and rural environments, with easy access to outdoor recreation and cultural attractions
- The cost of living is relatively low compared to other major metropolitan areas
Work Schedule: Flexible, with a focus on completing assigned tasks rather than strict hours
ASSUMPTION: The work environment is collaborative and supportive, with a focus on teamwork and open communication.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission
- Phone or video screening
- In-person or virtual interview with the hiring manager
- Background check and reference check
Key Assessment Areas:
- Writing and editing skills
- Communication and collaboration skills
- Understanding of university marketing and branding policies
- Ability to work effectively with diverse teams
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills
- Provide examples of your writing and editing work, if available
- Be prepared to discuss your familiarity with Chicago editorial style and AP Style
ATS Keywords: Marketing, Communications, Writing, Editing, Branding, University, Higher Education, Collaboration
ASSUMPTION: The application process is straightforward and focused on assessing the candidate's relevant skills and experience.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Office 365 (Word, Excel, Outlook)
- Content management systems (e.g., WordPress, Drupal)
- Email marketing platforms (e.g., Mailchimp, Constant Contact)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)
ASSUMPTION: The successful candidate will have experience with relevant tools and technologies, as well as a willingness to learn new platforms as needed.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Integrity
- Respect
- Responsibility
- Discovery
- Excellence
- Community
Work Style:
- Collaborative
- Results-driven
- Adaptable
- Attention to detail
- Strong communication skills
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you have strong writing and editing skills, with knowledge of Chicago editorial style and AP Style?
- Are you comfortable working collaboratively with diverse teams and maintaining a high level of confidentiality?
- Do you have experience in higher education marketing and communications, or a willingness to learn?
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be a strong writer and editor with experience in higher education marketing and communications, as well as a collaborative work style and a commitment to maintaining confidentiality.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Meeting tight deadlines for writing and editing projects
- Balancing multiple projects and priorities
- Working effectively with diverse teams and maintaining a high level of confidentiality
- Adapting to changes in university marketing and branding policies
ASSUMPTION: The successful candidate will be able to manage their time effectively, prioritize tasks, and adapt to changes in university policies and priorities.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- This role is similar to other marketing communications specialist positions in higher education, but may require less experience in higher education marketing and communications
- Industry-specific context: Higher education marketing and communications roles may require knowledge of university-specific branding and marketing policies
- Career path comparison: This role may lead to increased hours, full-time employment, or opportunities for professional development and training
ASSUMPTION: This role is similar to other marketing communications specialist positions in higher education, but may require less experience in higher education marketing and communications.
📝 Sample Projects
- Writing and editing university publications, such as newsletters or magazines
- Creating and implementing email marketing campaigns for university events or initiatives
- Developing and maintaining university website content, including news articles, event listings, and other relevant information
- Collaborating with university departments to create and distribute marketing materials, such as brochures or flyers
ASSUMPTION: The successful candidate will have experience with relevant projects and be able to provide examples of their writing and editing work.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the most important priorities for this role in the first 90 days?
- How does this role fit into the overall marketing and communications strategy for the university?
- What opportunities are there for professional development and training in this role?
- How does the university support work-life balance for part-time employees?
- What is the typical career path for someone in this role?
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will be proactive and curious, asking thoughtful questions about the role and the university.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through the Penn State University job portal
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills
- Provide examples of your writing and editing work, if available
- Prepare for your interview by reviewing the university's marketing and branding policies and familiarizing yourself with the role's responsibilities and required qualifications
- Follow up with the hiring manager within one week of your interview to express your interest in the position
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
