Department or Unit Name Strategic Marketing and Communications Position Headcount 1 Position Title Strategic Communications Student Assistant (Public Relations/Social Media) Academic Year Academic Year 2026-2027 Term or Semester All Academic Year Is this Role for an Undergrad or Grad Student? Undergrad Anticipated Pay Range $16.90 - $16.90 Pay Range Information
Chapman University is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this position. This range takes into account a variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on the final candidate’s qualifications and experience, as well as internal equity and other internal factors. The anticipated pay range is not a promise of a particular wage.
On which Campus will this work be done? Orange Approved Supervisor Bob Hitchcock Supervisor Email rhitchcock@chapman.edu
Desired Start Date 08/03/2026 Projected End Date 03/31/2027 Average number of hours per week Up to 19 Hrs
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary
This role supports Chapman University’s PR and content efforts through writing, media pitching, coverage tracking, and social media support, with strong writing skills and communication‑related majors preferred.
Responsibilities
Serve as an in-house publicist for Chapman University, shadowing and assisting the university’s lead public relations strategist in promoting Chapman and its amazing people and pride points.
Gain real-world public relations industry experience on the job by writing press releases and media advisories, conducting media pitching under supervision, and attending media opportunities as appropriate.
Assist with compiling information and building resource materials such as fact sheets, media lists, and editorial calendars.
Track key dates, events, and opportunities in media calendars and prepare corresponding materials.
Monitor news coverage on various platforms and create media reports.
At the direction of the professional social media team, assist in drafting and scheduling content for Chapman University’s official social media channels, including Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook.
Research, conduct interviews, and write content for Chapman University publications, including newsletters, the newsroom, the magazine, and social media platforms.
As needed, prepare a daily newsletter summarizing relevant media coverage for the university.
Stay up to date on current campus news, issues, and trends.
Help organize and maintain tools and kits used to support external communication efforts.
Suggest visuals assets to complement published content.
Contribute ideas during team meetings and pitch potential stories.
Provide research and administrative support to content and media projects.
Required Qualifications
Strong communication skills, especially in writing and editing.
Familiarity with Microsoft Office.
Ability to meet deadlines, take initiative, and work independently and collaboratively.
Experience creating content for social media platforms (personal or organizational).
Familiarity with social media analytics or monitoring tools is a plus.
Desired Qualifications
Preferred majors include Communication, Public Relations, English, or Journalism.
Interest in strategic storytelling, higher education, and external engagement.
Willingness to learn and contribute to a wide range of communication projects.
Familiarity with Muck Rack public relations management platform.
Familiarity with Microsoft SharePoint.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Budget Information
Is Federal work-study required? With or Without FWS
