Writer/Editor (1284)

Get to Know American University

At American University we value open and honest inquiry, servant leadership, and the affirmation of the human dignity of all. We envision a thriving AU community where individuals of all identities and experiences are understood, appreciated, and fully included, and where equitable treatment, opportunities, and outcomes prevail.

Our diverse community of students, faculty, and staff represent every state and more than 150 countries. Our internationally recognized faculty are today's thought leaders in the areas of public policy, law, the arts, communications, international development, and more. Our staff are innovative, service-oriented, and dedicated to moving the university towards achieving its strategic goals. We are committed to an excellent experience for all of our students, faculty and staff and share a passion for creating change through our knowledge and our work.

Learn more about American University by clicking here .

About the Department/Unit

Come join an energetic team of dedicated communicators working across the university, along with a multitude of diverse stakeholders committed to telling the AU story. University Communications and Marketing thrives with a committed and creative team working collaboratively to share stories of changemaker with a wide variety of audiences.

Summary/Objective

Conceives, researches, and writes stories for AU’s flagship publication, American magazine, and its online presence, including at least two features and more than a dozen departments per issue. Participates in editorial planning, works closely with managing editor and art director on all aspects of the magazine, including unearthing stories, brainstorming art, attending relevant photo shoots, writing headlines, and crafting marketing material to promote magazine content. Helps edit the magazine at two crucial points in the production process: before it is sent to press and in bluelines. Assists in curating the magazine’s website and social media feeds. Completes other general tasks as needed to work toward the magazine’s success, and occasionally contributes to other storytelling platforms, including This Week at AU and the Challenge Accepted microsite.

Essential Functions

1. Report and write features, news, and profiles for American magazine. This involves researching, preparing questions, interviewing numerous sources (some of whom will be used for background only), and writing clear, concise, and colorful copy for stories ranging from a 250-word department to a 3,000-word feature. Responsible for writing at least two features and multiple departments every issue. Writes headlines, cutlines, cover copy, and table of contents blurbs in conjunction with editor. Conducts editing responsibilities.
2. Work closely with managing editor to shape the editorial calendar. This includes identifying alumni and other AU community members, developing sources across campus, conducting research about potential ideas, keeping abreast of trends in university magazines, and fleshing out ideas with the editor.
3. Curate the magazine’s website and social media feeds, primarily Twitter. Load stories into the CMS, craft email to the alumni community teasing the forthcoming issue, and maintain social media calendar that’s shared with communicators across campus.
4. Other Duties as Assigned.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

• Full Time.
• Sr. Coordinator/Analyst B.
• Exempt.

Required Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent.
• 2-4 years of relevant experience.

Preferred Education and Experience

• 5-8 years of relevant experience.
• At least five years of professional writing experience—preferably with a news outlet or higher education institution.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

• Strong writing, copyediting, and proofing skills and familiarity with social media and digital publishing.
• Self-starter who takes an entrepreneurial approach to their work. Able to juggle competing priorities and deadlines.
• Confident interviewer and savvy researcher.
• Excellent news judgment and diplomacy skills; comfortable in both academic and non-academic environments. Able to write compelling and accurate content in a variety of styles for diverse audiences.

Benefits

AU offers a competitive benefits package including a 200% matching retirement plan, tuition benefits for full-time staff and their families, several leadership development certificates, and has been recognized by the American Heart Association as a fit-friendly worksite.Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options .

Other Details

• Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check.
• Employees in staff positions at American University must deliver their services to the university from either the District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or perform work on-site at the university.
• To ensure the health and safety of our community AU requires COVID-19 vaccinations for faculty and staff. Click here to learn more about our health and safety directive.
• Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Current American University Employees

If you are a current employee at American University, please log intoAsuccessfulU through themyAU portal . Once in AsuccessfulU, please select the Careers tile which will take you to our internal career page.

Contact Us

For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, email theworkline@american.edu .

American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual’s genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.

Nearest Major Market: Washington DC