Writer

University of Texas at Austin

1d•$65,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Writer is a key member of the UT News team in University Marketing and Communications (UMAC), creating content in a variety of formats for University channels. This position will work closely with colleagues within UMAC and across the University to identify and craft stories about UT’s people, programs, achievements and more – from research news to student profiles to features about classes. The Writer will focus primarily on writing engaging and impactful editorial content for various platforms, including web, email, social media and print. The ideal candidate will have a passion for storytelling and an aptitude for creating different content pieces to promote the University.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Journalism, English, Marketing, or related communications field.
At least 3 years of professional experience as writer, reporter/journalist, copywriter, or related position.
Strong attention to detail and proven ability to manage multiple deadlines simultaneously.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis for any employer without sponsorship.
Must have access to reliable transportation.
Resume/CV
3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor
Letter of interest
3 writing samples (one sample must be an editorial/storytelling piece)

Nice To Haves

More than 3 years of professional experience as a writer, reporter/journalist, copywriter, or related position.
Familiarity with AP Style.
Knowledge of SEO best practices, social media and other digital promotional strategies.
Experience writing for institutions of higher education.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Responsibilities

Serve as an in-house reporter, finding and pitching story ideas covering a range of topics, colleges, schools and units, and in a variety of formats.
Write stories for UT News and other digital properties: quick-turn news and press releases; longer features; short-form lists; interviews/Q&As; short features; etc., ensuring accuracy and quality and obtaining appropriate approvals throughout.
Write for other content formats, including video scripts, newsletter blurbs, web copy, etc., for marketing campaigns.
Work closely with all UMAC teams – media relations, content, social media, design/creative, multimedia, digital, academic and internal comms – on story planning and distribution.
Source and collaborate on visual assets to accompany written stories.
Explore and incorporate new and creative storytelling methods.
Work closely and collaboratively with communications and marketing teams across the University, as well as the faculty, students, staff, researchers and leaderships within those colleges, schools and units.
Participate in all stages of the editorial cycle: editorial calendar development and planning, idea generation and brainstorming, interviewing, editing and distribution.