I work in communications for a college university, and I was hired as a 3rd communications specialist just 3 months ago. I am still learning my role and our organization, but the team structure has drastically changed over the years. From my understanding, about 2 years ago, there were 2 communications specialists for undergrad (it is a lot of work), and 1 communications specialist for graduate.
Between then and my hire date, our team reduced to just 1 residential undergrad communications specialist. This person was often expressing how busy they were and how much work their role required. They seemed miserable in that role without help. The role I got hired for was a third communications specialist that would help in both undergrad and graduate communications.
However, this month, we were informed that the person doing undergrad communications is leaving, and I was told I have to fill that role. I feel very overwhelmed and unprepared, especially since I have only been here for a few months, and this was originally a 2 person job. I expressed that I am worried about the workload to my supervisor, but they just said I will “be fine”.
I want to ask for a raise since I will be doubling my workload. However, I have reservations since I have only been here for 3 months. The person who is leaving has relatively the same pay as I do, so I am worried I will seem entitled if I ask for more than what they were getting while in the role. What should I do? Additionally, would it be better to ask HR directly for a raise as opposed to my supervisor? I am feeling really discouraged and overall, overworked and under-payed. Any advice is appreciated!