Position Function:
Provides professional support and project management in planning, development, and coordination of both internal and external communication projects and outreach events of key significance to the advancement of the overall goals and objectives of the Delta Research and Extension Center. Participates in establishment and design of communications projects and events, to include comprehensive writing projects, presentations, community outreach events, social media, web sites, reports, and related activities
Salary Grade: 14
Please see Staff Compensation Structure or Skilled Crafts and Service Maintenance Compensation Schedule for salary ranges. For salary grade UC, these positions are "Unclassified" and salary ranges are determined by the hiring department.
Department Profile:
This position is located at the Delta Research and Extension Center in Stoneville, MS. This is an off campus site of Mississippi State University.
Anticipated Appointment Date:
April 2026.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Collaborates in the development and dissemination of broadly based strategic communication designed to inform the public of such issues as the unit’s programs, accomplishments, and/or points of view on specified issues.
2. Provides professional assistance and support to unit in the planning, design, development, and management of strategic projects and initiatives.
3. Writes, edits, and reviews public relations materials for the unit, to include fact sheets, articles, one-page research summaries, newsletters, and annual reports; oversees production and publication of public relations materials and other related communications.
4. Plans and coordinates special events and meetings on- and off-Station. Schedules events for various conference rooms and facilities at DREC. Provides technical assistance to a wide variety of users for Charles W. Capps, Jr. Entrepreneurial Center, and other conference rooms, including operation of control room equipment for various media presentations and interactive video conferences and/or classes. These meeting might also include using off-site venue audio/visual systems.
5. Provides content to unit’s websites and manages social media presence for the unit.
6. Maintains and publishes calendars for Delta Research and Extension Center. May include other agencies and stakeholders important to the University’s mission
7. Provides photography services during events, meetings, and for publications.
8. Assist with large format printing.
9. Some before or after work may be required outside normal business hours.
10. Work closely with MAFES and Extension departments on projects that are originated from Starkville. Assignments might include writing, photography, meeting support, etc.
11. Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Communications, Journalism, English, Mass Communications, Graphic Design, or a related field and three years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities of the position.
Indicated education is required. Education above the minimum requirement may be applied toward the experience requirement.
Preferred Qualifications:
Master’s degree in Agricultural Communications, Journalism, English, Mass Communications, or a minimum of five years’ experience in a related field.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
• Skill in organizing resources and establishing priorities.
• Ability to use independent judgment and to manage and impart confidential information.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to foster a cooperative work environment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
• Ability to evaluate and edit the content, structure, and format of a range of written material.
• Skills in the use of database management, word processing, spreadsheet, and/or presentation software.
• Advanced verbal and written communication skills.
• Knowledge of communication principles, media, and public relations techniques.
• Ability to analyze and interpret intellectual information and to develop accurate and descriptive abstracts and summaries.
• Knowledge of media production and publishing principles and processes.
• Ability to plan, develop, and coordinate multiple projects and events.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
• No unusual physical requirements. Requires no heavy lifting, and nearly all work is performed in a comfortable indoor facility.
• Routine deadlines; usually sufficient lead time; variance in work volume is seasonal and predictable; priorities can be anticipated; some interruptions are present; involves occasional exposure to demands and pressures from person other than immediate supervisor.
• Occasional overnight travel will be required.
• Job frequently requires sitting, talking, hearing, handling objects with hands.
• Job occasionally requires standing, walking, reaching, working outside, and lifting up to 25 pounds.
• Vison requirements: Ability to see information in print and/or electronically.
Instructions for Applying:
Link to apply: http://explore.msujobs.msstate.edu/
For additional information and to apply, go to www.msujobs.msstate.edu. Applicants must complete the professional application and submit a cover letter, resume, three references, and an unofficial transcript with social security numbers redacted.
Screening Date:
April 8, 2026, until filled.
Restricted Clause:
Position is contingent upon continued availability of funding.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, (662) 325-5839.
What do I do if I need an accommodation?
In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at tel: (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu.
If you have any questions regarding this policy, contact the Department of Human Resources Management at (662) 325-3713 or ada@hrm.msstate.edu. Upon request, sections of this job listing are available in large print, and readers are available to assist the visually impaired.
