Research Writer (Salt Lake City, Utah)

Western Governors University•Salt Lake City, UT

About The Position

The Content Marketing Manager is a key member of the WGU Labs MarCom team, responsible for shaping and producing compelling longform content rooted in research, innovation, and impact. This role is ideal for a serious thinker and exceptional writer with a deep understanding of postsecondary education, workforce development, or social innovation — and a proven ability to translate complex research and technical ideas into engaging, accessible narratives. You will lead the creation of research reports, white papers, thought leadership articles, and multi-use content that drives visibility for WGU Labs and elevates our work in national conversations. You will also provide strategic guidance on editorial direction, serving as a key thought partner to internal researchers, product teams, and leaders. This role is highly collaborative and requires editorial rigor, strategic thinking, and a passion for communicating ideas that matter.

Requirements

Exceptional writing and editing skills, with demonstrated ability to distill technical, research-driven, or product-related insights into compelling content for diverse audiences across channels (e.g., blogs, newsletters, LinkedIn, reports, and web copy).
Strong strategic mindset with proven experience in developing and executing content strategies that drive thought leadership, increase visibility, and support business goals within mission-driven or innovation-focused organizations.
Deep understanding of the higher education and workforce learning ecosystem, with an interest in emerging technologies, equity-centered approaches, and the intersections of learning and work.
Fluency in best practices for digital marketing and social media engagement, particularly LinkedIn, including planning, performance analysis, and content optimization.
Demonstrated experience in managing content hubs and websites, including familiarity with content management systems such as Webflow or WordPress, and the ability to align UX and messaging with audience needs and institutional priorities.
Collaborative editorial leadership, with the ability to partner closely with researchers, product managers, and subject-matter experts to co-develop insights, refine messaging, and produce assets that meet the needs of both internal stakeholders and external audiences.
Project management excellence, with strong time management, organizational skills, and attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
Understanding of SEO, analytics, and engagement metrics, and ability to apply those insights to content planning and optimization across digital channels.
Ability to work independently and proactively, while thriving in a highly collaborative team culture that values transparency, iteration, and feedback.
Experience managing contractors or creative partners, such as freelance writers, designers, or agencies, to produce high-quality content on deadline and on brand.
Experience with content and publishing tools, including but not limited to: Hootsuite, HubSpot, Google Analytics, and newsletter platforms such as Mailchimp or Campaign Monitor.
Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, marketing, English, or related field.
At least five (5) years of professional experience in content marketing, editorial strategy, or digital communications, preferably in higher education, workforce development, or mission-driven sectors.
Proven experience managing owned content channels (e.g., website, blog, social media) to build reputation, audience, and thought leadership.
Demonstrated ability to collaborate with researchers, product leaders, or subject-matter experts to produce high-quality content that aligns with organizational strategy.
Familiarity with managing or contributing to LinkedIn strategies (newsletter, posts, amplification), using social publishing platforms (e.g., Hootsuite), and optimizing content for engagement.
Working knowledge of SEO, analytics, and digital performance metrics, with experience using insights to inform content creation and strategy.
Strong project management skills, with ability to prioritize and manage multiple deadlines across teams.
Proficiency with CMS platforms (e.g., Webflow or WordPress), Google Suite, and basic design tools such as Canva or Adobe Express.
Excellent communication, collaboration, and stakeholder engagement skills.

Responsibilities

Own longform research and editorial content, serving as the lead writer and editor for research-driven assets including OpEds, white papers, website content, and downloadable resources.
Create content for LinkedIn, managing content planning, performance analysis, and channel optimization in collaboration with internal teams and shared resources to ensure alignment with organizational priorities and voice.
Serve as an editorial partner to researchers and product teams, shaping technical and research-driven insights into compelling, accessible narratives, including research reports, white papers, blog posts, collateral, newsletters, research briefs, and podcasts.
Develop internal communications to disseminate findings within WGU, including internal WGU newsletter and other materials as needed.
Ensure clarity, coherence, and alignment. Maintain editorial standards across content types, ensuring that all materials reflect WGU Labs’ POV and are aligned to our larger strategic and research goals.
Measure and reporting on content performance, using key marketing and engagement metrics (e.g., engagement rate, impressions, downloads) to inform content strategy and optimize future efforts.