Staff Writer Jobs

Priority consideration will be given to applications completed by 6/1/2023
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For more detailed information, please visit our UA website.
University of Washington Alumni and Stakeholder Engagement has an outstanding opportunity for a Staff Writer. This is a full-time permanent position.
The University of Washington Magazine (circ. 200,000) is the award-winning journalistic magazine produced for the University by the UW Alumni Association. The staff writer works as a core member of the publications team in a general assignment role to create print and digital stories and support production for the University’s flagship magazine as well as for Viewpoint Magazine (circ. 25,000), the University’s diversity publication. These magazines tell the stories of the UW and explore important topics of our times through the lens of the University. For many in the alumni community, the magazines are the primary source for news about the UW.
The University of Washington Magazine staff writer finds and develops story ideas, conducts research and interviews, and works closely with University and community stakeholders. This position aims to leverage the research, discoveries and knowledge of the University’s experts and alumni to inform, enlighten and engage our readers, deepening their connection to the UW. The staff writer contributes business and administrative support for both magazines.
The employee should have experience editing written pieces for grammar, AP style, flow and readability, and will join a team that regularly reviews and edits content and advertising from sources outside the publications team.
What You Will Do

Generate and develop multi-source, journalistic stories for our print and online publications taking into account institutional goals, reader interests, journalistic standards and current events. This involves working throughout the University—including the main campus, UW Tacoma and UW Bothell—and with individuals and communities throughout the region.

Fulfill assigned stories as well as conceive and pursue fresh and compelling story ideas.

Be driven, curious and energized about storytelling.

Demonstrate excellent writing and editing skills, excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

Serve as project manager in developing and producing various editorial departments within our publications like campus news, media, calendar, obituaries and alumni profiles.

Work collaboratively with staff across the UW Alumni Association, the UWAA and University Marketing & Communications events team and University Marketing and Communications’ creative team to develop and support mutual projects as well as build and share content around major events and initiatives.

Provide business and administrative support for the magazines’ essential behind-the-scenes duties including paying vendors and collecting and curating reader feedback.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
Bachelor's degree in journalism or a related field and three to four years of experience in writing, editing and communications for news media, nonprofit, government or higher education institutions.
Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.
Who You Are

Curious and willing to experiment. Enjoy working in a collaborative environment.

Strong writing portfolio that showcases conceptual and editorial skills and demonstrates the ability to work collaboratively with writers, editors, graphic and web designers, video producers and art/creative directors.

Strong communication and organizational skills, and the ability to manage expectations of a diverse group of partners.

Experience editing written pieces for grammar, AP style, flow and readability.

Experience within a news organization, and with magazines.

Experience interacting with vendors and/or printers for large-scale projects. Knowledge of alumni relations/development/advancement principles.

What You Can Expect

You will work with an open-minded and inclusive team that values diversity.

Cubical/open workspace environment which may result in additional or higher levels of noise and visual distractions.

This position requires a flexible schedule as the workload and times may vary and may include occasional evenings or weekends.

Application Process:
The application process for UW positions may include completion of a variety of online assessments to obtain additional information that will be used in the evaluation process. These assessments may include Work Authorization, Cover Letter and/or others. Any assessments that you need to complete will appear on your screen as soon as you select “Apply to this position”. Once you begin an assessment, it must be completed at that time; if you do not complete the assessment you will be prompted to do so the next time you access your “My Jobs” page. If you select to take it later, it will appear on your "My Jobs" page to take when you are ready. Please note that your application will not be reviewed, and you will not be considered for this position until all required assessments have been completed.