Senior writer/content manager

DepartmentCommunications

The senior writer and content manager is a highly versatile and journalistically minded storyteller who plays a vital role in shaping the voice of the University across multiple platforms, including the University’s award-winning online newsroom, RED, and MSU Denver’s employee communications platform, Early Bird. The senior writer and content manager also handles assignments for the University’s alumni magazine and other projects and publications as needed

This key member of the University Communications and Marketing team is a nimble writer with the ability to turn near-daily assignments that meet journalistic standards while aligning with MSU Denver’s mission and values. The senior writer/content manager also is a skilled digital publisher who builds and publishes stories in the University’s content management system, WordPress, and builds and distributes the RED newsletter through the University’s email distribution system.

The senior writer/content manager:

• Researches, reports and writes 2-4 stories per week for University publications, collaborating with the photo team to produce visually compelling stories.
• Researches, writes and submits 3-4 story pitches per month.
• Builds and publishes in-house and freelancer-produced stories in WordPress for RED and Early Bird.
• Builds and distributes the RED digital newsletter.
• Assists with editing freelance-produced stories or rewriting submitted content. 
• Assists with special-project writing and editing assignments. 
• Utilizes project-management and file-sharing tools to keep projects organized and ensure cross-team collaboration. 

Duties/Responsibilities: 

• Writing/editing for RED, Early Bird and special projects – 60% 
• Building and publishing stories in WordPress – 25%
• Pitch development – 5 % 
• Building and distributing RED newsletter – 5% 
• Other duties as assigned – 5% 

Required qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution of higher learning.
• At least three years of experience working in an editorial role in a newsroom or an integrated communications and marketing environment, or similar high-capacity editorial environment.
• Excellent, versatile writing and communication skills, as demonstrated by a portfolio of published work. 
• Demonstrated ability to write for diverse audiences under tight deadlines.
• Experience building and publishing content in WordPress or similar content management system. 
• Expert knowledge of AP Style as demonstrated in cover letter and writing portfolio. 
• Ability to work independently and in a collaborative environment. 
   

Preferred qualifications 

• At least five years of experience working in an editorial role in a newsroom or an integrated communications and marketing environment. 
• Demonstrated editing and proofreading skills. 
• Experience using Salesforce Marketing Cloud or similar email platform. 
• Experience using ClickUp or other project-management software.
• Experience writing for higher-education communications. 
• Knowledge of and experience writing for social media platforms. 
• Strong analytical, problem solving, critical thinking and project management skills.
• Basic photo editing knowledge and skills. 
• Experience with analytics. 

Important Note: Successful applicants will ensure their resumes clearly demonstrate that their work experience describes how they meet ALL required qualifications.

Schedule Information
Full-time, 40 hours per week
Exempt
Days of the Week: Mon – Fri
Evenings and Weekend Work: As needed
Schedule: Hybrid schedule
Travel: Rarely

Salary for Announcement
Under Colorado law, MSU Denver is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role and should not offer a salary outside of the range posted in this job announcement. This range takes into account a variety of factors including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, analysis of internal equity, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience. 

The salary range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $64,500-$75,000. 

This position is paid monthly and is eligible for MSU Denver benefits.

Instructions to Apply
To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by 11:59pm (MT) 9/11/2024
For full consideration, please submit the following documents:
Resume
Cover letter describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position
*In your cover letter or resumé, please include links to at least three examples of published work, or a link to a portfolio of writing examples*

Official transcripts will be required of the candidate selected for hire.

Closing Date

Open Until Filled

Posting RepresentativeSophia J Montano

Posting Representative Email[email protected]Benefits

The University’s benefits package is comprehensive and offers medical, vision and dental, free RTD pass, tuition reimbursement, as well as a life and supplemental insurance plans, retirement plans and other programs, such as access to a long-term disability (LTD) plan. Visit MSU Denver’s benefits website to learn more.

For a brief overview, please see: https://www.msudenver.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/MSU-Benefit-Summary.pdf. 

The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at [email protected].

Diversity Statement

Metropolitan State University of Denver is a unique, access-oriented campus community that values diversity, equity, and inclusion in all its forms. Our student population consists of nearly 58% first generation students and over 50% students of color. We are a designated Hispanic Serving Institution located in downtown Denver.

We create an equitable learning and working environment in concert with individuals who consistently demonstrate commitment to equity and inclusion. We greatly value the diverse identities and perspectives of our students, faculty, and staff and recognize that in order to achieve a just and equitable society, diversity must go beyond simple representation. It requires critical inquiry and dialogue and a commitment to action. We strive to provide a culture of belonging for all community members to achieve personal and professional success.