Marketing Copywriter

University of Chicago • Chicago, IL

109d • $61,200 - $72,000

About The Position

The Marketing Copywriter plays a key role in shaping how alumni and donors connect with the University of Chicago’s mission and impact. This position translates complex ideas into clear, compelling, and audience-centered messages across a variety of channels. Working as part of the marketing strategy team and in collaboration with campus partners and colleagues across Advancement, this role assists in executing integrated marketing plans that strengthen the University of Chicago’s brand, engage alumni, and advance philanthropic goals. This role writes a variety of communications for the University.

Requirements

• Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
• Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree.
• Minimum two years of professional experience in nonprofit management, development, alumni relations, marketing, public relations, sales or similar field.
• Background with data analysis and communicating complex topics to non-technical people.
• Managing cross-team projects.
• Proficiency in or ability to learn WordPress or other CMS tools.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Teams.
• Proficiency in writing for web and understanding of SEO principles.
• Demonstrated skill and knowledge of, or ability to learn quickly, the internal workings of the University as well as the technology tools available to Advancement, including Phoenix, the University's Donor Relationship Management System.
• Proficiency in a Microsoft Windows computer environment, Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access.

Responsibilities

• Writes, edits, and proofreads clear, compelling, and on-brand copy for a variety of marketing and communications channels, including print collateral, websites, email campaigns, social media, videos, and event materials.
• Develops engaging narratives that reflect the University’s voice, tone, and brand identity while connecting with diverse audiences, including prospective students, alumni, donors, faculty, and the broader community.
• Translates complex academic, research, and institutional topics into accessible, persuasive, and inspiring content that resonates with non-specialist audiences.
• Collaborates with marketing strategists, designers, multimedia producers, and other communicators to ensure cohesive storytelling across integrated campaigns.
• Conducts interviews with faculty, students, alumni, and subject matter experts to gather information and create compelling feature stories, profiles, and promotional content.
• Adapts messaging for different platforms, audiences, and campaign goals while maintaining consistency in voice and style.
• Applies knowledge of higher education trends, audiences, and competitive positioning to inform content strategy and strengthen message impact.
• Works with the marketing and communications team to review and edit content for accuracy, clarity, and alignment with institutional priorities.
• Manages multiple writing projects simultaneously, meeting deadlines and maintaining high editorial standards.
• Stays current on best practices in higher education marketing, digital engagement, and storytelling to continuously enhance content quality and relevance.
• Ensures all content adheres to University editorial, accessibility, and brand guidelines.
• Performs other related duties as assigned to support the goals of the marketing and communications department.
• Seeks opportunities for professional development that will enhance job performance including attending webinars, seminars, building networks within the University and with colleagues at peer institutions.
• Researches, verifies, writes and edits publications, which can includes technical/scientific material for manuals or journals.
• Participates in the design and planning of communications strategies.

Benefits

• The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees