Senior Media Relations Specialist- #0042161

The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) is the science operations center for the Hubble Space Telescope and science and flight operations center for the upcoming James Webb Space Telescope. The STScI Office of Public Outreach is seeking a Senior Media Relations Specialist who will be responsible for identifying, writing, and placing science results from Hubble and Webb, as well as STScI scientists. This opening offers an opportunity to promote the science of two NASA flagship missions in a dynamic and creative way.

A key responsibility of this role will be communicating Hubble and Webb science objectives and impact to the general public. The responsibilities will also include managing news requests for interviews and visits to STScI for onsite videography. The position also requires organizing news events at national conferences as well as advancing print, online and social media news networks. The candidate will disseminate new space science research findings to make society aware and informed about astronomy’s scientific advances.

This is a three-year term position with access to comprehensive benefits and retirement. This position could be eligible for term extensions. STScI offers an excellent and generous benefits package, tuition reimbursement, flexible work schedules and a stimulating and diverse work environment. Relocation assistance may be available. Explore our benefits: http://www.stsci.edu/opportunities/benefits

Responsibilities will include:

• Writing and editing content for various media relations and communications initiatives, including press releases, news pitches, web and social media content, and other communications as assigned.

• Organizing and hosting media visits to STScI from print and broadcast media. Arranging phone interviews between astronomers and offsite science journalists.

• Assisting with pitching science stories from STScI missions to reporters and media representatives.

• Collaborating with the STScI News Chief and science writers to identify newsworthy science and communicate this research to the public.

• Working with the Social Media Lead to effectively communicate with journalists via social media.

• Helping to organize press room operations at science meetings and supporting operations of press conferences and press teleconferences.

• Writing and producing media reports to assess impact of news releases using media reporting software.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, science writing or a related field.

• Five to eight years of experience as a press officer, science writer, reporter, or editor.

• Demonstrated ability to assess newsworthiness of scientific findings and interview researchers for the purpose of translating complex science into simple concepts. Ability to write about scientific findings in a lively, colorful, and engaging way.

• Experience using writing and publishing software, Microsoft Word and Excel, and social media platforms.

• Knowledge of news media monitoring systems and familiarity with organizing press conferences for scientific meetings.

• Working knowledge of media relations and online content strategy, principles, and best practices.

To Apply: You are requested to complete an on-line application through the STScI website. Please upload a cover letter and resume on one PDF document for review. Applications received by February 27, 2020 will receive full consideration.

Direct Link: https://recruiting2.ultipro.com/SPA1004AURA/JobBoard/93330e50-7b3a-4ba8-94f2-6f32360aa4e1/Opportunity/OpportunityDetail?opportunityId=e5112c85-47b3-4335-9782-71e8c74c1204

To explore other job announcements: www.stsci.edu/opportunities

AURA, as a leader in the astronomical community, is committed to diversity and inclusion. AURA develops and supports programs that advance our organizational commitment to diversity, broaden participation, and encourage the advancement of diversity throughout the astronomical scientific workforce. Learn more at www.aura-astronomy.org/diversity.asp
As a recipient of U.S. Government funding, AURA is considered a government contractor and is subject to Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action regulations.

As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, AURA and all of the centers, do not discriminate based on race, sex, color, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity/gender identity expression, lawful political affiliations, veteran status, disability, and/or any other legally protected status under applicable federal, state, and local equal opportunity.

STScI sees the diversity of our staff as a strategic priority in our desire to create a first-rate scientific community. We reflect that deep dedication in strongly encouraging women, minorities, veterans and disabled individuals to apply for these opportunities.

Veterans, disabled individuals or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at [email protected]. EOE/AA/M/F/D/V