"Senior Writer"

Job Details

Position Details

Classification Information

• Position Classification Title: Temp Hourly
• FLSA: Non-Exempt
• Position Class (Extract From Banner or PA): 55555

Position Overview

Position Summary

Join the Ramily! Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) is a distinguished institution that combines academic excellence, community engagement, and a commitment to fostering student success. We are proud to be North Carolina’s only university to earn the distinguished designation of Opportunity College by the Carnegie Classifications of Higher Education and the American Council on Education (ACE). WSSU is dedicated to preparing students for leadership roles through rigorous programs in health sciences, business, education, and the humanities. Known for its supportive, inclusive environment, the university fosters a close-knit, diverse community that nurtures both personal and academic growth.

Situated in Winston-Salem, North Carolina—known as the city of Arts and innovation, WSSU provides students with opportunities to engage in a dynamic mix of professional, social, and cultural experiences. Winston-Salem is home to thriving arts, healthcare, and technology sectors, offering both students and faculty unique collaboration opportunities and professional development pathways.

With its beautiful campus, strong sense of community, and dedication to fostering personal and professional growth, Winston-Salem State University is an ideal place to teach, work, and learn.

The Integrated Marketing and Communications (IMC) team is seeking a Senior News Writer who will serve as a key storyteller and content strategist for WSSU. This role is responsible for developing compelling, high-quality written content that elevates the university’s brand and showcases its mission, people, and impact. This position plays a central role in advancing institutional priorities by producing news stories, feature articles, and editorial content for internal and external audiences across digital and print platforms.

The ideal candidate is an exceptional writer and editor with a deep understanding of higher education communications, a keen news sense, and a passion for inclusive storytelling that reflects WSSU’s diverse and vibrant community.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Content Development and Storytelling

• Research, write, and edit engaging content that supports university priorities, highlights academic excellence, student success, faculty research, and community engagement.
• Produce stories for the WSSU website, news portal, digital newsletters, magazines, and other institutional publications.
• Develop signature feature stories that bring the university’s mission and values to life through human-interest narratives.
• Ensure accuracy, clarity, and alignment with WSSU’s editorial and brand voice.

Strategic Communication

• Collaborate with colleagues across IMC, the Chancellor’s Office, and academic units to identify and prioritize story opportunities that align with strategic goals.
• Translate complex topics (research, policy, data) into accessible and engaging content for broad audiences.
• Contribute to communication plans for major announcements, events, and campaigns.

Media and Public Relations Support

• Draft press releases, media advisories, and talking points for high-profile university initiatives.
• Support media outreach and assist in managing journalist inquiries and story placements.
• Identify opportunities for national, regional, and local media coverage.

Editorial Oversight

• Serve as a lead writer and mentor for IMC’s student and junior writers.
• Review, edit, and provide feedback on communications materials to ensure quality and consistency.
• Uphold AP style and university editorial standards across all content.

A successful candidate for a senior writer position would bring extensive professional writing experience, typically five to seven years or more, in higher education, marketing, journalism, public relations, or a related field. They should demonstrate a strong portfolio of strategic, high-quality content across multiple formats, including executive communications, web and digital storytelling, marketing campaigns, and media materials. The ideal candidate will have proven expertise in translating complex information into clear, compelling narratives that align with institutional goals and brand standards. A bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, English, marketing, or a related discipline. They should also possess excellent editorial judgment, the ability to work under tight deadlines, and a track record of collaborating effectively with leaders and subject-matter experts to produce polished, impactful content.

Primary Function of Organizational Unit

The Integrated Marketing and Communications Office serves as the central hub for advancing and protecting Winston-Salem State University’s brand, reputation, and strategic messaging. IMC leads the development and execution of comprehensive communication and marketing strategies that promote the university’s mission, elevate its visibility, and engage key audiences, including prospective students, current students, faculty and staff, alumni, donors, legislators, and the broader community.

Position Information

• Position Number: NS7033
• Working Position Title: Senior Writer
• Temporary Job Type: Non Student
• Approved Competency Level: Advanced
• Building and Room No.: Integrated Marketing and Communication Alumni House
• Work Hours: 8 am - 5 pm
• Hours per week: 40
• Months per year: 1
• Appointment Type: Temporary
• If Time Limited: Yes
• Appointment Length: 2 years
• FTE: 1

Requirements and Preferences

Minimum Experience/Education

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, English, public relations, or a related field.
• Minimum of five (5) years of professional writing experience in journalism, higher education, public relations, or marketing communications.
• Demonstrated excellence in feature and news writing, with a robust portfolio of published work.
• Proficiency in AP Style and strong editorial judgment.
• Exceptional ability to write for various audiences and channels (web, print, email, social, media).

Preferred Years Experience, Skills, Training, Education

• Experience in higher education or nonprofit communications.
• Familiarity with SEO writing, digital analytics, and content management systems.
• Experience collaborating with photographers, videographers, and designers to produce integrated content.

Required License or Certification

• Valid US Driver's License: Yes

Posting Details

• Posting Number: TEMP00407P
• Number of Vacancies: 1
• Salary: $35 per hour
• Open Date: 01/06/2026
• Open Until Filled: Yes

Special Instructions Summary: A criminal background check will be conducted on the candidate finalist prior to the offer of employment. ...