Strategic Media Relations & Senior Writer

University of California Los Angeles; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

UCLA Samueli seeks a seasoned Senior Writer/PIO to lead media relations, craft compelling content, and elevate the school's profile through proactive outreach and strategic storytelling.

You will collaborate with senior leaders and the Communications team, manage media pitches, and coordinate messaging across traditional and digital channels. Evening/weekend events may be required to facilitate coverage.

Qualifications

• Five+ years of full‑time journalism and media-relations experience.
• Strong relationships with science/tech reporters regionally and nationally.
• Superior newsroom writing and editing in AP Style.
• Experience leading high‑profile media events and handling inquiries.
• Ability to measure media-relations metrics and ROI.
• Advanced social media knowledge to strengthen school branding.
• Ability to work under deadlines in a fast-paced team setting.
• Evening/weekend event availability.
• Experience in PR agencies, in-house comms, or nonprofit sectors.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a strategic media-relations plan for UCLA Samueli.
• Build and maintain media lists and pitches from faculty and activities.
• Coordinate with CMO and communications team on content and messaging.
• Draft speeches, talking points, and press materials for leadership engagements.
• Manage UCLA Samueli's speaker's bureau and proactive PR initiatives.
• Post content on main social channels to ensure consistent external messaging.

Skills

Media relations

Journalism writing

AP Style

Event management

Social media usage

Team collaboration

Strong media pitching

Education

Bachelor's Degree in journalism/communications

Job description

UCLA Samueli seeks a seasoned Senior Writer/PIO to lead media relations, craft compelling content, and elevate the school's profile through proactive outreach and strategic storytelling.

You will collaborate with senior leaders and the Communications team, manage media pitches, and coordinate messaging across traditional and digital channels. Evening/weekend events may be required to facilitate coverage.