Media Relations Specialist - Hybrid

Hybrid working model - will require 3 days onsite per week at minimum.

Location(s):Primarily onsite at Melrose Wakefield Hospital. Individual must be able to travel to our other locations in Massachusetts as needed including Tufts Medical Center, Lowell General Hospital, Burlington Headquarters, etc.

Job Profile Summary

This role focuses on the marketing activities of the organization, including promoting and marketing healthcare services to the community and supporting business growth by disseminating information that promotes a favorable view of the organization. In addition, this role focuses on performing the following Media & Design duties: Designs and creates media and communications publications and materials. Produces computer-generated graphic-design for both internal and external communication materials, photography and digital editing, including stills, motion pictures and videotapes to support editorial content, non-photographer photo studio/photo shoot activities, including directing, creative consulting, styling, art and prop creation/curation, etc., creates, edits/proofreads text and layout for internal and external publications including product manuals, research findings, etc., content curation for digital and printed publications, screenwriting and copywriting/editing for films, programs or shows, production activities for a news broadcast, including research, journalism/reporting, copywriting, etc., creation and design of interactive media, including animation, visual/sound effects, etc. A professional individual contributor role that may direct the work of other lower level professionals or manage processes and programs. The majority of time is spent overseeing the design, implementation or delivery of processes, programs and policies using specialized knowledge and skills typically acquired through advanced education. An experienced level role that applies practical knowledge of job area typically obtained through advanced education and work experience. Works independently with general supervision, problems faced are difficult but typically not complex, and may influence others within the job area through explanation of facts, policies and practices.

Job Overview

Tufts Medicine is seeking a skilled and resourceful Media Relations Specialist to join our high-performing Marketing & Communications team. This position is responsible for amplifying the voice and reputation of Tufts Medicine by identifying, crafting, and securing high-impact media stories that highlight the clinical, academic, and community excellence across our health system.

This is a unique opportunity to drive earned media strategy for one of the region's most dynamic and evolving health systems. Works closely with internal stakeholders-executive leaders, clinical experts, researchers, and faculty-to shape stories that resonate with regional and national media, enhance public trust, and strengthen brand visibility. This position will also be a first responder to media inquiries, managing both proactive outreach and reactive reputation support with confidence, clarity, and care.

Success in this role requires exceptional writing skills, a strategic mindset, strong news judgment, and an understanding of the ever-changing media landscape. The ideal candidate is proactive, collaborative, detail-oriented, and thrives in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Job Description

Minimum Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or related field.

2. Four (4) years of experience in media relations, journalism, or public affairs.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Master's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or related field.

2. Six (6) years of experience in media relations, journalism, or public affairs-preferably in healthcare, higher education, or nonprofit sectors.

3. Proven track record of securing media coverage across traditional and digital outlets.

4. Experience supporting media strategy in response to sensitive or crisis situations.

Duties and Responsibilities: The duties and responsibilities listed below are intended to describe the general nature of work and are not intended to be an all-inclusive list. Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned.

1. Develops and implements strategic earned media campaigns aligned with Tufts Medicine's priorities and narrative goals.

2. Cultivates and manages relationships with local, regional, and national journalists, with a focus on increasing media visibility and thought leadership.

3. Pitches and places compelling stories that elevate Tufts Medicine's clinical, research, academic, and community initiatives.

4. Serves as the front-line point of contact for media inquiries, coordinating timely responses and spokesperson engagement.

5. Writes press releases, media advisories, talking points, backgrounders, and FAQs tailored to different audiences and platforms.

6. Supports preparation of subject matter experts and executives for interviews, including media coaching and messaging guidance.

7. Collaborates with content, digital, and social media colleagues to amplify press coverage across owned channels.

8. Monitors and reports on media trends and coverage metrics to inform strategy and identify opportunities.

9. Assists with issues and crisis communications, providing tactical support and coordination under the direction of senior communications leaders.

10. Builds partnerships with Tufts University School of Medicine, faculty, and research leads to promote academic and scientific excellence.

Physical Requirements:

1. This is largely a sedentary role, which involves sitting most of the time, but may involve movements such as walking, standing, reaching, ascending/descending stairs, and operating office equipment.

2. Frequently required to speak, hear, communicate, and exchange information.

3. Ability to see and read computer displays, read fine print, and/or normal type size print and distinguish letters, numbers and symbols.

4. Requires manual dexterity using fine hand manipulation to operate computer keyboard.

5. May be required to lift 10-20 lbs occasionally.

Skills & Abilities:

1. Comfortable interacting with and advising clinical experts, researchers, and senior executives.

2. Skilled at managing multiple priorities in a fast-moving, matrixed environment.

3. Excellent writing and storytelling skills; ability to translate complex topics into accessible, compelling narratives.

4. Demonstrated ability to translate media opportunities into omnichannel and atomic content opportunities that amplifies reputational and brand preeminenc.

Tufts Medicine is a leading integrated health system bringing together the best of academic and community healthcare to deliver exceptional, connected and accessible care experiences to consumers across Massachusetts. Comprised of Tufts Medical Center, Lowell General Hospital, MelroseWakefield Hospital, Lawrence Memorial Hospital of Medford, Care at Home - an expansive home care network, and large integrated physician network. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity and inclusion at Tufts Medicine. Tufts Medicine does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, national origin, gender identity and/or expression, marital status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation by emailing us at careers@tuftsmedicine.org.