Marketing & Public Relations Associate
Location: Irvine, CA
Position Type: Full-time, Non-exempt, In-Person
Primary Reporting to: Senior Marketing & Public Relations Manager; Marketing & Patron Services Manager
Secondary Reporting to: COO / Vice President of Communications
Supervisor to: N/A
Compensation & Schedule:
- Non-exempt, full-time (approximately 40 hours per week)
- Schedule: In-person. Includes occasional evenings and weekends, based on event needs.
- Hourly Rate: $24-$27 per hour
Benefits:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan with employer match
About Us
The Philharmonic Society of Orange County is a non-profit music organization dedicated to enriching our community through world-class classical music performances and educational programs. We seek a motivated Marketing & Public Relations Associate to support our efforts in audience engagement, media relations, and brand promotion.
Position Overview
The Marketing & Public Relations Associate plays a key role in executing marketing initiatives and managing media relations to enhance the visibility and reach of the Philharmonic Society. This is an in-person role requiring strong communication skills, creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple projects in a dynamic environment.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree, preferably in marketing, communications, arts administration, or related field; or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with strong interpersonal abilities for working with a wide range of patrons, partners, and colleagues
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple deadlines and projects simultaneously
- Enthusiasm for learning marketing and PR strategies, including data analysis and audience engagement
- Creative and strategic thinker who enjoys finding new ways to engage audiences and promote events
- Collaborative team player with flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced non-profit environment
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint); experience with CRM systems, email marketing tools, and social media platforms is a plus
- Ability to work on-site at our office and attend in-person events regularly
Preferred Qualifications:
- Passion for classical music and the performing arts
- Understanding of audience development and community engagement, particularly within the arts sector
- Familiarity with HTML and content management systems (CMS)
- Experience with customer relationship management (CRM) or ticketing platforms; Tessitura experience preferred
- Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (including Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Premiere Pro)
- Basic graphic design and/or content creation skills
Key Responsibilities:
Marketing
- Support the planning and execution of marketing initiatives, including advertising, promotions, campaigns, and events.
- Manage and implement promotional campaigns for concerts and programs.
- Develop and manage advertising campaigns across print, direct mail, radio, digital, TV, and other channels.
- Conduct market research to identify new outreach opportunities and build partnerships to engage diverse audiences.
- Assist in the development and execution of subscription and single ticket sales campaigns.
- Create and update content for marketing and promotional use.
- Assist in maintenance of website content, creation of event pages, and ensuring accuracy and functionality.
- Provide content for social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X, YouTube) and conduct outreach.
- Coordinate and supply content for email newsletters and collaborate on email trades.
- Write advertorial copy for radio, postcards, brochures, and print ads.
- Maintain organized records and archives for marketing and PR materials.
- Serve as staff liaison for the Board’s Artistic & Marketing Committee, coordinating meetings, agendas, materials, and minutes.
- Proofread marketing and organizational materials to ensure accuracy and brand consistency.
- Support marketing activities at concerts and special events, including preparing marketing displays and assisting with media and sponsor check-ins (some evenings/weekends required).
Public Relations
- Submit events to online calendar listings in a timely manner and conduct follow-up checks, in alignment with the overall PR plan.
- Write and distribute press releases; assist in pitching stories and coordinating media interviews to secure coverage.
- Maintain and update the press room on the Philharmonic Society’s website.
- Monitor media coverage and prepare regular reports on press mentions and impact.
- Assist with media relations during concerts and events by assembling press kits, greeting press, escorting media around venues, and providing program information and encores.
Design
- Assist in creating concert and organizational support materials—both digital and print—including flyers, postcards, advertisements, program books, brochures, posters, emails, and digital banners.
- Ensure all materials align with approved design guidelines to consistently reinforce the Philharmonic Society’s brand and initiatives.
Physical & Mental Requirements
- Ability to sit or stand for extended periods
- Ability to lift up to 25 lbs. occasionally (e.g., marketing materials)
- Comfortable using computers and office equipment for prolonged periods
- Strong attention to detail and ability to manage shifting priorities
- Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed
HOW TO APPLY:
Please submit a cover letter, resume and salary requirements to:
Philharmonic Society of Orange County
Attn: Human Resources
1124 Main Street, Suite B
Irvine, CA 92614
Email: hr@philharmonicsociety.org
