Media Relations Specialist III — Planetary Science

NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 113,000 - 137,000; Full time

Job summary

NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena seeks a Media Relations Specialist III to distill planetary science into clear, engaging materials and manage media inquiries. You will work with leading scientists and engineers to craft releases, features, blogs, and video scripts that inform and inspire globally.

Responsibilities include proactive storytelling, campaign development, and crisis messaging, collaborating across JPL, NASA HQ, and external partners to highlight mission milestones and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in communications, journalism, science writing, or related field with professional experience.
• Advanced expertise in science and technical writing and in producing diverse digital stories.
• Strong ability to adhere to AP Style, meet deadlines, and maintain concise word counts.

Responsibilities

• Translate complex planetary science, geology, and engineering into clear, engaging materials for public audiences.
• Cultivate relationships with subject matter experts to find compelling story angles and milestones.
• Plan and execute end‑to‑end communication campaigns, press kits, and news conferences (virtual and in‑person).
• Respond to media inquiries under tight deadlines and prepare experts for interviews.
• Navigate multi‑agency review workflows across JPL, NASA HQ, and partners.
• Develop proactive messaging and rapid‑response plans for crises and issues.

Skills

Science writing

News writing

AP Style

Storytelling

Deadline management

Diplomacy

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, science writing, or related discipline

Master’s degree in a similar discipline

Ph.D. in a similar discipline

Job description

NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena seeks a Media Relations Specialist III to distill planetary science into clear, engaging materials and manage media inquiries. You will work with leading scientists and engineers to craft releases, features, blogs, and video scripts that inform and inspire globally.

Responsibilities include proactive storytelling, campaign development, and crisis messaging, collaborating across JPL, NASA HQ, and external partners to highlight mission milestones and