Work Location: LSU AgCenter Communications, Knapp Hall

Job Description: The LSU AgCenter is seeking a talented, highly organized, deadline-driven communicator with a varied skill set to join the organization’s communications team.

This position’s primary function is to use communications methods to share AgCenter information from across the state to various audiences. This position will be part of the LSU AgCenter Communications Department, which serves research, extension, and teaching programs for the LSU AgCenter and the LSU College of Agriculture.

The preferred candidate will possess strong writing and editing skills with experience in Associated Press style and be able to contribute high-quality photographs to the AgCenter’s news efforts, manage and maintain webpages and have some knowledge of video production.

Specific responsibilities include:

• Write, edit and distribute news, feature stories and other content for the AgCenter’s news distribution service, website, social media and other communication channels.
• Develop and maintain relationships with media and encourage their use of AgCenter faculty as sources and AgCenter information in their news efforts.
• Coordinate media coverage of AgCenter events and issues.
• Raise public awareness of research and extension programs.
• Support faculty in their efforts to reach the media and the public.
• Advise LSU AgCenter personnel on media-related issues such as handling media requests, interviews and inquiries.
• Photograph AgCenter events and research projects. Gather photographs for news, magazines and other publications.
• Help maintain the AgCenter’s photo archive.
• Assist with news and educational video production.
• Contribute content to LSU AgCenter social media platforms.
• Keep up with trends in media production and delivery to better craft and distribute messages across all platforms.
• Help conduct communications training to faculty groups and individuals.
• Serve on AgCenter committees and help with events.
• Support administrators with presentations, speeches and interview preparation as needed.
• Perform other duties as required and assigned.

In-state travel and flexible scheduling outside of traditional office hours are required.

Qualification Requirements: Bachelor's degree in public relations, marketing or communications. Other closely related degrees may be accepted if combined with a minimum of four years of professional-level experience directly related to this position. Master's degree in public relations, marketing or communications is preferred.

Salary and Benefits: Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. The LSU AgCenter has an attractive benefits package with a wide variety of benefit options. Benefits offered include retirement, multiple medical insurance options, supplemental insurances (dental, life, long-term disability, accident, vision, long-term care, etc.), Tax Saver Flexible Benefits Plan (saves tax dollars on some child care and medical expenses), university holidays (14 per year, typically includes a week off at Christmas), generous annual (vacation) and sick leave benefits, and an Employee Assistance Program. Possibility of educational leave and tuition exemption for coursework towards a master’s or Ph.D. degree at campuses of the LSU System. Specific benefits depend on job category, percent effort and length of employment.

Date Available: Upon completion of the selection process.

Application Deadline: June 2, 2024, or until a suitable candidate is identified.

Application Procedure: Apply online at LSU AgCenter Careers (or through Workday for internal applicants) by attaching a cover letter with resume including a statement of professional interest and goals, university transcripts and two letters of reference. Paper, faxed or emailed application materials will not be accepted. In lieu of attaching the letters of reference, they may be sent directly to:

Tobie Blanchard
LSU AgCenter Communications Director
141 Knapp Hall
Baton Rouge, LA 70803
Email: tblanchard@agcenter.lsu.edu
Website: AgCenter website

The LSU Agricultural Center is a statewide campus of the LSU System and provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. An Equal Opportunity Employer.