Freelance Earned Media Specialist

Wawner Strategies; Charleston (SC); Remote; Part time

Job summary

A leading agency is looking for a Part-Time Earned Media Specialist to secure impactful press coverage for clients in hospitality and lifestyle sectors. The ideal candidate will have strong media relations skills and a knack for storytelling. This flexible role allows for remote work or in Charleston, SC, with compensation based on experience and performance.

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years of earned media experience.
• Proven success in placing stories in lifestyle or design verticals.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute earned media strategies.
• Write and personalize media pitches and press releases.
• Maintain relationships with journalists and content producers.

Skills

Writing

Editing

Communication

Media Relations

Storytelling

Tools

Muck Rack

Meltwater

Job description

Job Title: Part-Time Earned Media Specialist

Location: Remote or Charleston, SC (preferred)

Reports to: Founder & CEO, Kat Wawner

Compensation: Hourly or per media hit, based on experience and preference

About Wawner Strategies

Wawner Strategies is a Charleston-based public relations and brand strategy agency that emphasizes authenticity, creativity, and community in every client story. We focus on earned media, storytelling, and creative campaigns for hospitality, lifestyle, and mission-driven brands aiming to make the world more interesting, inclusive, and intentional.

Position Overview

We’re seeking a savvy, self-starting Earned Media Specialist to secure thoughtful, high-impact press coverage for our expanding roster of hospitality, lifestyle, design, and wellness clients. This part-time role is ideal for a media-obsessed professional with strong editorial instincts, a network of press contacts, and the ability to pitch and place stories that enhance visibility and brand credibility.

Key Responsibilities

1. Develop and execute earned media strategies and pitch angles for various clients.
2. Write, refine, and personalize media pitches, press releases, and media alerts.
3. Maintain relationships with journalists, editors, influencers, and content producers across local, regional, and national outlets.
4. Track and report media placements, highlighting impact such as reach, brand alignment, and SEO value.
5. Monitor editorial calendars, media trends, and competitor coverage.
6. Collaborate with the team on media lists, storytelling frameworks, and PR campaigns.
7. Contribute to creative brainstorms and client reporting as needed.

Ideal Candidate

• 3–5+ years of earned media experience (agency, freelance, or in-house).
• Proven success in placing stories within lifestyle, travel, food & beverage, or design verticals.
• Excellent writing and editing skills; proficient in AP Style and crafting compelling subject lines.
• Strong media network and a keen sense for compelling stories.
• Organized, responsive, and proactive communicator.
• Familiarity with tools like Muck Rack, Meltwater, or similar is a plus.
• Comfortable working independently in a fast-paced, creative environment.

Compensation

• Hourly rate based on experience (starting at $25/hr) or
• Performance-based structure ($150-$500+ per placement depending on distribution and content type).
• Flexible compensation structure based on candidate’s preference and output.

Additional Details

• Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
• Employment type: Part-time
• Job function: Marketing, Public Relations, Writing/Editing
• Industries: Marketing Services