(On-Site) Content Writer/Storyteller - Strategic Communications and Marketing

The Division of Strategic Communications and Marketing at West Virginia University is currently accepting applications for a Content Writer/Storyteller.

About the Opportunity

The Content Writer/Storyteller is a key part of the Office of Strategic Communications and Marketing's Storytelling Unit, which aggressively promotes West Virginia University's brand, people and programs to the public and various constituents including but not limited to potential students, potential faculty, academic peers, external media, government officials, alumni, supporters and donors.

Effective performance in this role is accomplished through a high level of writing, research and editing. The ideal candidate shall possess a talent for drawing readers into content ranging from feature stories to press releases to recruiting materials through compelling copy and creative storytelling.

The Content Writer/Storyteller must also harness the ability to adapt to diverse styles of writing meant to suit target audiences. The desired outcome is to convey the significance and impact of the University, its research and its people on the region, the nation and the world.

The successful candidate must be capable of working independently, producing reliable, high-quality editorial content with minimal supervision or editing. At the same time, this person will work collaboratively on projects, engaging with colleagues from within the Storytelling team, other SC&M divisions, University units and schools and colleges. Building relationships with a broad range of personalities, whether faculty, staff or students, on campus is a must for this position.

Must be personable, professional and able to communicate with others in a positive and productive manner to support overall University priorities.

We strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU offers generous benefits, including:

• 37.5-hour work week
  
• 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
  
• 24 annual leave (vacation) days per year or more based on years of service (employee leave)
  
• 18 sick days per year (for when you're ill, for when you need time to care for sick family, for your own, or your family's, regularly scheduled medical appointments. Who is family for the purpose of this leave? A lot of people in your life including immediate relatives and in-laws as well as others considered to be members of your household living under the same roof)
  
• WVU offers a range of health insurance and other benefits
  
• 401(a) retirement savings with 6% employee contribution match, eligibility to continue health insurance, and other retiree perks. Looking for more retirement benefits information? Check out retirement health insurance benefits, retirement income, and FAQ's.
  
• Wellness programs

What You'll Do

• Writing and editing content, including but not limited to press releases on research, long-form articles, profile pieces, and recruiting, marketing and website copy.
• Arranging and conducting interviews to develop content.
• Writing and editing material for internal communications.
• Writing and editing for video and multimedia scripts, as well as for emerging media.
• Assisting with the planning and production of projects.
• Maintaining relationships with key constituents across campus.
• Executing and managing multiple projects with time sensitive deadlines.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism or a related field.
• A minimum of two (2) years' experience in a news, communication or public relations program for a college, news media organization, government agency or other large knowledge-based organization.
• A minimum of two (2) two years' experience interviewing, writing and editing.
• Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered.
• All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Demonstrated excellence in writing news, feature articles and/or marketing material.
• Demonstrated ability to take complex, highly technical information and translate it into language that can be understood by non-experts and non-scientists.
• Demonstrated experience interviewing, writing and editing, including ability to distill and clarify ideas under deadline.
• The ability to work collaboratively as part of a larger team.
• Skill and experience in identifying and relating to contemporary issues in light of accomplishments by University faculty and students.
• Skill in identifying the correct issues to be communicated, the appropriate audience, the method and timing of communication.
• Demonstrated skill in analyzing situations and providing sound professional judgment on problems dealing with communication and marketing.
• Skill in establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships.
• Demonstrated general knowledge of electronic, print, interpersonal and marketing communications in service to complex organizations.
• Ability to meet multiple deadlines and manage priorities and projects effectively.
• Ability to work outside traditional business hours when needed.
• Ability to investigate and analyze information and draw conclusions.
• Ability to effectively communicate with University personnel and the public.

West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.

From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.

At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values - service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation - unite us as Mountaineers.

Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact. To learn more about WVU, visit wvu.edu.

West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.