Staff Writer, Communications

Overview

Reporting to the Associate Director, Communications, the staff writer provides support for Yale’s fundraising efforts by researching, drafting, and preparing written communications including news articles, gift announcements, web copy, brochures, solicitation materials, case statements, proposals, stewardship reports, video scripts, and more.

The staff writer creates a wide range of content in support of Yale’s fundraising and alumni engagement priorities. They convey the impact of giving to Yale by telling the stories of Yale’s faculty members, students, alumni, and leaders. They conduct interviews and write engaging profiles for a variety of print and digital publications, including the Alumni Affairs & Development website and ELI magazine, the Office of Development’s publication for top donors. They draft solicitations and marketing materials for individual giving opportunities and for various fundraising initiatives and teams.

Required Skills and Abilities

1. Demonstrated exceptional written communication skills. Please submit writing samples with application. Ability to adapt writing style to a variety of audiences and media. Skilled in translating academic content into engaging, readable copy for a general audience. Superior editing and proofreading skills and experience.
2. Demonstrated organizational and research abilities, strong computer skills, and strong attention to detail and accuracy.
3. Ability to prioritize work, juggle multiple tasks, and meet deadlines in a time-constrained environment.
4. Well-developed verbal and interpersonal skills; ability to work effectively with staff across the university, including high-level administrators and faculty. Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
5. Commitment to an inclusive workplace and to fostering a positive and collaborative team environment.

Please include a writing sample as an attachment with your application.

Principal Responsibilities

1. Drafts, formats, proofreads, and edits written materials.
2. Conducts background research and interviews subject-matter experts as well as students, professors, donors and other individuals to provide content for publications.
3. Proactively researches and suggests content to support and reinforce the University’s fundraising goals.
4. Coordinates the production of publications and other communications.
5. Manage writing projects.
6. May perform other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience

Bachelor’s Degree in a related field and three years of experience writing and editing in a professional setting or equivalent combination of education and experience.