PUBLICIST, UC PRESS - HYBRID

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Position Base: Oakland

Location: UCOP - Broadway Building

UC OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT

At the University of California (UC), your contributions make a difference. A world leader producing Nobel and Pulitzer Prize recipients with over 150 years of groundbreaking research transforming the world. Choose a career where you can leverage your knowledge, skills and aspirations to inspire and support some of the greatest minds in the world, and those who will follow in their footsteps. Working at the University of California is being part of a unique institution, and a vibrant and diverse community. At the University of California, Office of the President, we propel our mission through impactful work locally, in government centers and systemwide. We are passionate people, serving the greater good.

The University of California, one of the largest and most acclaimed institutions of higher learning in the world, is dedicated to excellence in teaching, research and public service. The University of California Office of the President is the headquarters to the 10 campuses, six academic medical centers and three national laboratories and enrolls premier students from California, the nation and the world. Learn more about the UC Office of the President

DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW

University of California Press is one of the most forward-thinking scholarly publishers, committed to influencing public discourse and challenging the status quo. At a time of dramatic change for scholarship and publishing, we collaborate with faculty, librarians, authors, and students to stay ahead of today's knowledge demands and shape the future of publishing.

POSITION SUMMARY

Working closely with the Publicity Director, the Publicist at UC Press plays a hands-on role in elevating the visibility of our books and authors through booking media, events, and placing authors within public conversations. This position targets outreach to major news, cultural, academic, and publishing industry outlets, securing features, reviews, and interviews that amplify the Press's mission-driven publishing program. The role involves crafting and executing publicity campaigns, including pitching and placing op-eds and adapted content, identifying timely hooks in current events, and preparing authors with customized talking points for media and public appearances. The Publicist also contributes to audience-building by advising author's on platform development, leveraging UC Press's social media channels to boost earned media, and collaborating closely with the Publicity Director and colleagues across editorial, marketing, and sales. Rooted in thoughtful author communication and media relationships, the Publicist work directly supports UC Press's visibility, reputation, and revenue goals.

Responsibilities:

• 55% Publicity: Coordinates activities to promote and publicize UC Press authors and books, including events and promotional materials designed to promote awareness of author ideas and books to the general public. Responsible for working with editors, sales, and marketing colleagues to ensure that author ideas/books are appropriately developed and amplified via traditional and nontraditional outlets. Track costs and ensures that costs remain at or under the budget provided by the Publicity Director.
• 10% Events: Coordinates and amplifies public and private events with authors on behalf of UC Press.
• 25% Writing: Writes pitches and other promotional materials, including talking points, press releases, and assisting with content for social media.
• 10% Outreach: Builds relationships with local, national, and international media and leverages these relationships to build exposure for UC Press authors and books.

Required Qualifications:

• At least two (2) years of publicity experience
• Knowledge of communication principles, media, and marketing techniques
• Highly motivated and goal oriented
• Strong organizational skills: ability to track, prioritize and complete work within deadlines
• Strong written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills
• Author or other client relations expertise and the ability to handle relationships with outside constituents including but not limited to authors, editors, society contacts, and media connections
• Solid knowledge of computer software programs, including MS Word, Excel, and Google Drive; ability in learning new software and web-based programs

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in book publicity
• Knowledge of book publishing and/or bookselling

Education

• Bachelor's degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training required

Travel Requirements

• 5% Occasional travel to conferences and to meet with media

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• The person hired will be required to live in California and report to work on-site at UC's Office of the President in Oakland, CA at least two days per week (currently Wednesday and Thursday).

SALARY AND BENEFITS

Job Title: Marketing Specialist 2
Job Code: 007551
Salary Grade: Grade 19

Payscale: $36.87 - $41.04/hour (approximately $77,000 - $85,700 annual), commensurate with experience

The University of California, Office of the President, is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience.

Benefits: For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University visit: Benefits of Belonging

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

HOW TO APPLY

Please be prepared to attach a cover letter and resume with your application.

APPLICATION REVIEW DATE

The first review date for this job is October 16, 2025. The position will be open until filled.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Background Check Process: Successful completion of a background check is required for this critical position. Background check process at UCOP

Smoke Free Work Environment: The University of California, Office of the President, is smoke & tobacco-free as of January 1, 2014. UC Smoke & Tobacco Free Policy

As a condition of employment, you will be required to comply with the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs, as may be amended or revised from time to time. Federal, state, or local public health directives may impose additional requirements.

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.

• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
  • UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
  • UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties
  • APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

EEO STATEMENT

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

The University of California, Office of the President, strives to make this job board accessible to any and all users. If you have comments regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us at: Accessibility or email the Human Resource Department at: epost@ucop.edu.