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Pr Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mission North

PR Associate

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

Currently, we're searching for an Associate to join our team! One Team, All In As a benefit ... Proficiency with basic computer and PR tech applications including MuckRack, Lexis, Sysomos ...

Qualcomm

Manager, Public Relations

San Diego, CA · On-site

OR Associate's degree and 7+ years of Public Relations or related work experience. *Completed advanced degrees in a relevant field may be substituted for up to two years (Master's = one year ...

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Pr Associate information

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How much do pr associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for pr associate in California is $27.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $30.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PR associate?

PR Associates, or Public Relations Associates, are professionals who support the creation and distribution of positive information about an organization to the public and media. They assist in drafting press releases, organizing events, managing media lists, and monitoring public perception. Their work helps maintain a favorable image of the company and ensures effective communication with stakeholders. PR Associates often collaborate with senior PR staff and other departments to implement communication strategies.

How does a PR associate typically collaborate with other departments within an organization?

As a PR Associate, you'll work closely with teams such as marketing, social media, and product management to ensure consistent messaging and effective communication strategies. Collaboration often involves coordinating press releases, supporting event planning, and sharing feedback from media coverage. This cross-functional work helps align public relations goals with broader company objectives and ensures that campaigns are cohesive across all channels. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential to manage these collaborations successfully.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PR associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PR Associate, you need strong written and verbal communication skills, media relations experience, and typically a bachelor's degree in public relations, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with PR management tools like Cision, Meltwater, and social media platforms is often required. Creativity, adaptability, and relationship-building are crucial soft skills for engaging diverse audiences and managing multiple projects. These skills and qualities are vital for effectively conveying brand messages, building positive public images, and navigating the fast-paced communications landscape.

What is the difference between Pr Associate vs Public Relations Specialist?

AspectPr AssociatePublic Relations Specialist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in communications, marketing, or related field; internships often preferredBachelor's degree in communications, journalism, or related field; certifications like APR can be advantageous
Work EnvironmentAgency or corporate PR teams; fast-paced, deadline-drivenMedia outlets, corporate PR departments, or agencies; involves media interactions and content creation
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in PR agencies, corporations, nonprofitsUsed across similar sectors, often with more client-facing responsibilities

The main difference between a Pr Associate and a Public Relations Specialist lies in experience level and scope. Pr Associates are typically entry-level roles supporting PR campaigns, while Public Relations Specialists often have more experience and handle media relations, content development, and strategic communication. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, but the Specialist role usually involves greater responsibility and client interaction.

Are PR associate jobs well paid?

PR associate jobs typically offer entry-level to mid-level salaries that vary by location, experience, and employer size. According to industry data, the median annual salary for public relations associates ranges from $40,000 to $60,000, with potential for higher earnings with experience and specialized skills such as media relations or crisis management.

How much do public relations associates make?

Public relations associates typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, location, and the size of the organization. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals or those in larger markets can earn higher salaries. Skills in communication, media relations, and social media are often important for higher earning potential.

What are the most commonly searched types of Pr jobs in California?

The most popular types of Pr jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Pr Associate jobs?

Cities in California with the most Pr Associate job openings:

Pr Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pr Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,828 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Public Relations Associate

The Key PR

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Other

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

This role requires 2-4 years of PR agency experience.


The Key is a boutique PR and communications agency built for founders at every stage - from early builders to established companies still writing their next chapter. We work with brands across AI, energy, B2B, personal finance, venture capital, and more.


We're expanding our team with people who are genuinely curious about where technology is headed and how the Silicon Valley ecosystem actually works. You should love words and their power, consume media obsessively, and think critically about how the landscape is evolving. You should be equally comfortable working independently and thriving in a fast-moving, collaborative team.


What You'll Do

You'll work directly with our leadership team, with clients, reporters, and influencers, as a core part of our team.


You'll collaborate with Principals and Managing Associates to build smart, effective communications strategies. You'll bring sharp writing, creativity, persistence, and multitasking zen to the role - helping generate results that map directly to our clients' business goals.


What You'll Work On


Client Service

  • Provide exceptional client service and project management, from kickoff through wins
  • Execute the account team's day-to-day client work and overall task management
  • Track deliverables and deadlines across accounts, flagging risks early and keeping work moving


Media Relations

  • Identify, pitch, and work with media across channels, in outlets both established and emerging, with respect for the craft — theirs and ours
  • Write concisely for a variety of audiences, with a compelling voice, often on a quick turn: press releases, media lists, briefing books, backgrounders, speaking and awards submissions, abstracts, Q&As, contributed content, and other written material
  • Bring strong research skills to projects and creative brainstorms, for clients and for agency new business


What We're Looking For

  • Media-obsessed — established and emerging, earned and beyond
  • A creative, strategic thinker
  • Experience managing projects, and hunger to take on more
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a knack for creative writing and storytelling
  • Familiarity and fascination with tech tools

Apply