Public Relations and Communications Specialist

“Opportunities start here” is more than a slogan at Mat-Su College -- it is our mission. Our aim is to transform student aspirations into realities. Matanuska-Susitna College seeks applicants who possess a desire to help students succeed in reaching their goals. Join us and help turn student aspirations into reality! The Public Relations and Communications Specialist reports to the Marketing and Communications Coordinator and is responsible for promoting the mission, values, and programs of Mat-Su College through clear, engaging, and strategic communication.

This position manages public relations efforts, media outreach, and internal messaging to ensure consistent branding and effective information sharing. The specialist collaborates across departments to support events, announcements, and initiatives, helping strengthen the college’s presence in the community and beyond. A vital part of this role involves supporting faculty, departments, and student clubs by developing a wide range of marketing materials.

Whether creating flyers, digital ads, or promotional content, the specialist helps bring projects to life through creative messaging and design that reflect the college’s identity and goals. The PR and Communications Specialist is also responsible for writing content for college newsletters, press releases, newspapers, and official communications from the college director. This position requires strong writing and editing skills, as it serves as the voice behind many of the college’s key messages and public outreach.

Additionally, this role includes representing the college at off-campus events and speaking engagements. The specialist acts as a college ambassador, helping to build relationships, engage community members, and promote the opportunities available through Mat-Su College.

To thrive in this role, a successful Public Relations and Communications Specialist will be a strong communicator, organized, and proactive in managing multiple projects and deadlines. The ideal candidate will have an eye for detail, a collaborative spirit, and the ability to adapt messaging for diverse audiences. Creativity, professionalism, and a commitment to amplifying the college’s mission are essential to making a meaningful impact in this role.

Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Journalism, Communications or related field and two years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

An unrestricted Alaska driver’s license and clean driving record in compliance with UA Safe Driving criteria is required.

This position is located on the Matanuska Susitna College campus in Palmer, Alaska. This is a full-time, non-exempt staff position complete with both a competitive salary and full employee benefits package. UA provides a generous compensation package that includes retirement options, annual leave, 12 paid holidays per year, tuition waivers for employees and family members, and affordable medical, dental and vision care coverage.

New hires will be placed on the UA Staff Salary Schedule Grade 78, based on education and experience.

* A writing sample will be requested upon receiving an invitation to interview.

This position is part of a bargaining unit represented by the Coalition of Alaska University Staff for Equity (CAUSE)-UAW.

* To be eligible for this position, applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without restriction. Applicants who now or may in the future require visa sponsorship to work in the United States are not eligible.

The University of Alaska is responsible for providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities throughout the applicant screening process. If you need assistance in completing this application or during any phase of the interview process, please contact the ADA team at ua-ada.

The University of Alaska is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Employer and Educational Institution. The University is committed to a policy of non-discrimination against individuals on the basis of any legally protected status.

The successful applicant is required to complete a background…