Media Relations Specialist Jobs in Austin, TX

Wilson Sonsini is the premier legal advisor to technology, life sciences, and other growth enterprises worldwide. We represent companies at every stage of development, from entrepreneurial start-ups to multibillion-dollar global corporations, as well as the venture firms, private equity firms, and investment banks that finance and advise them. The firm has approximately 1,100 attorneys in 17 offices: 13 in the U.S., two in China, and two in Europe. Our broad spectrum of practices and entrepreneurial spirit allow exceptional opportunities for professional achievement and career growth.

The firm is seeking a Senior Media Relations Specialist who will be a key contributor to the firm’s marketing & communications initiatives. This person will assume a lead role in managing media inquiries, researching publications, creating targeted media outreach and advising attorneys on media relations opportunities.

This job is available as a hybrid or remote work schedule. Ideally based in either a West Coast or East Coast office, but we are open to other offices as well.

Responsibilities:

• Assist with daily media relations, including responding to journalist inquiries, conducting conflict checks, and researching relevant publications and reporters.
• Create and maintain targeted media lists for press outreach and distribution.
• Build and maintain relationships with key business, legal, and trade media contacts to foster effective communication and collaboration.
• Pitch story ideas to journalists, coordinate interviews, and advise attorneys on messaging and interview preparation.
• Draft and distribute press releases and other public relations content to elevate the firm’s visibility.
• Monitor media coverage involving the firm and its attorneys.
• Help maintain the firm’s fact sheet and related materials.
• Draft and edit select industry survey and award submissions (e.g., “40 Under 40”) and identify and assess new visibility opportunities.
• Support internal media training and engagement initiatives.
• Coordinate media planning and strategy calls with internal stakeholders, Marketing team members, and the firm’s external PR agency.
• Collaborate with other departments to align PR efforts with the firm’s broader business objectives.
• Research and facilitate the placement of bylined articles and firm-authored alerts for external publication.
• Assist with internal reporting and special research projects.
• Contribute to crisis communications efforts as needed.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or a related field.
• 7+ years of public relations experience, preferably within a law firm or professional services environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Proven ability to manage multiple time-sensitive projects and prioritize competing deadlines.
• Self-starter with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Sound judgment, discretion, and professionalism in all interactions.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build effective relationships at all levels of the organization.
• A network of relevant media contacts is a plus.

The primary location for this job posting is in New York, but other locations may be listed. The actual base pay offered will depend upon a variety of factors, including but not limited to the selected candidate’s qualifications, years of relevant experience, level of education, professional certifications and licenses, and work location. The anticipated pay range for this position is as follows:

New York, Palo Alto, San Francisco: $116,875 – $158,125 per year.
Austin, Boston, Boulder, Century City, Delaware, Los Angeles, Salt Lake City, San Diego, Seattle, Washington, D.C., and all other locations: $105,400 – $142,600 per year.

The compensation for this position may include a discretionary year-end merit bonus based on performance. We offer a highly competitive salary and benefits package.

Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).