Writer & Editor, Development

Alliance Defending Freedom • Lansdowne, VA

8h

About The Position

Make a difference with us! At Alliance Defending Freedom, we believe God has brought you here for His purpose—to stand for truth and defend the God-given right to live and speak it. Together, we protect religious freedom, free speech, the sanctity of life, marriage and family, and parental rights. Review our Statement of Faith to ensure we’re a fit for you.
The Development Writer & Editor at ADF contributes to creating clear, compelling, donor-focused written content that advances organizational fundraising goals. This role supports the Development and Communications teams by drafting, editing, and refining materials such as proposals, reports, donor updates, email content, and marketing collateral. Ideal candidates are strong writers who can translate complex subject matter into accessible, engaging content while following established messaging and brand guidelines.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Journalism, Marketing, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• 3–5 years of professional writing or editing experience, preferably in development, communications, journalism, nonprofit, advocacy, or mission-driven environments.
• Proficient in writing and editing for clarity, accuracy, and audience relevance, while adapting tone and style to match brand messaging guidelines.
• Ability to break down complex topics into accessible and engaging narratives.
• Knowledge of persuasive writing and fundraising writing principles and techniques.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Word, Outlook, etc.)
• Ability to manage multiple assigned projects and meet deadlines.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Take editorial direction well and incorporate feedback constructively.
• Work independently while maintaining alignment with team priorities.
• Creative thinker and problem solver.
• Proven ability to take initiative and work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

• Search Engine Optimization (SEO) preferred best practices.

Responsibilities

• Draft and edit donor-facing content, including proposals, grant reports, case statements, campaign materials, and stewardship updates.
• Write and revise copies for marketing materials, brochures, email campaigns, fundraising collateral, and website content.
• Translate complex legal, programmatic, or technical information into clear, accessible language for general audiences.
• Ensure all writing aligns with established brand, messaging, and style guidelines.
• Edit content for clarity, tone, grammar, organization, and accuracy.
• Proofread materials across print and digital formats to ensure consistency and high quality.
• Incorporate feedback from leadership, attorneys, program staff, and development colleagues.
• Manage assigned writing and editing projects from start to completion, ensuring timely delivery.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Communications, Programs, and Fundraising, to gather necessary information and context.
• Track deadlines, maintain version control, and ensure all materials are up‑to‑date.
• Maintain shared repositories of content, templates, and messaging resources.
• Conduct background research to inform writing projects, ensuring accuracy and contextual relevance.
• Stay informed about organizational priorities and program updates to support content development.
• Assist with the development of donor meeting materials, talking points, and briefing documents assigned.
• Work closely with team members to refine content based on editorial and strategic guidance.
• Participate in brainstorming and content-planning discussions as appropriate.
• Support senior writers and development leads on large or time-sensitive projects.

Benefits

• At Alliance Defending Freedom, we offer a competitive compensation and benefits package to support your well-being and growth.
• While we do not disclose specific salary ranges, our compensation is competitive with top non-profit law firms.
• Our benefits include 100% covered medical and dental insurance, medical and dependent care reimbursement, paid disability, long-term care, life insurance, and a 401(k) plan with a 4% company match.
• We prioritize work-life balance with paid time off and 12 paid holidays each year.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level