Senior Writer Content Specialist (Remote)

The States United Democracy Center, a nonpartisan organization focused on the critical role states play in election protection, is hiring a Senior Writer/Content Specialist to join the Communications department.

About the Organization:

The States United Democracy Center is a nonpartisan organization advancing free, fair, and secure elections. We connect state and local officials, law enforcement leaders, and pro-democracy partners across America with the tools and expertise they need to safeguard democracy. We are guided by a bipartisan Advisory Board of former state and federal officials, issue experts, and law enforcement leaders from both major political parties who are committed to protecting the will of the people and the rule of law.

Job Overview:

The Senior Writer will be a leader within States United’s Communications Department, which includes staff focused on client and media relations, communication and digital strategy, and content development. This role will report to the Communications Director and work closely with the organization’s executive and communications teams, as well as key staff from the legal and research departments.

The Senior Writer/Content Specialist will be a creative thinker who can convert complex issues into simple and compelling content that communicates a message to a wide range of stakeholders. This position is ideal for someone who has an established background in editorial and content writing for high-profile media outlets, thought leaders, and/or issue-focused organizations. This position will be integral to the positioning and messaging of the organization.

Responsibilities:

• Convert complex research, legal, and policy issues into simple, compelling messages for key stakeholders, including organizational leadership

• Write and/or edit materials such as press releases, op-eds, reports, memos, newsletters, talking points, social media posts, and presentations on both rapid response and planned timelines

• Support the profile growth for organizational leadership, including identifying opportunities for elevating leaders/the organization and drafting supporting prep materials and public-facing content

• Develop and execute creative approaches to further organizational priorities in the media landscape and with key stakeholders, including around rapid response moments

• Develop an editorial calendar, and help refine and drive the organization’s editorial review process

• Copyedit documents and collaborate with colleagues across departments to ensure materials are factually accurate while maintaining accessibility and narrative appeal

• Update and manage adherence to State United’s style guide, working to ensure consistent voice and editorial standards across materials and platforms

• Work with the research team and communications team on message-testing, seeking to understand which messages resonate with specific audiences and why

• Participate in, and lead, briefings and trainings on messaging and recommendations

• Work with the development team to help communicate SU’s mission, impact, and victories to funders and potential funders

• Manage and grow the organization’s content and messaging library, working with experts and leaders across the team to understand emerging issues and develop related accessible, explanatory content

Minimum Requirements:

• At least seven [7] years of relevant experience in communication, including at least five [5] years in journalism or another writing-centric field

• At least two [2] years’ experience managing a small team and/or consultants

• A proven track record of executing high quality work in a campaign-like or breaking news environment

• Excellent written and oral communication skills, specifically communicating complex policy ideas in a way that helps audiences understand and relate to them

• Ability to work collaboratively with colleagues in a demanding and fast-paced environment

• Committed to acting on the belief that bipartisanship is a critical component of our work

• Display a positive attitude, show concern for people and community, demonstrate presence, self-confidence, common sense, and good listening ability

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ten [10]+ years of experience in communications, journalism, or political science

• Project management experience, including in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities

• Experience working with, and writing for, diverse communities and leaders

We encourage individuals to submit their application for consideration even if they believe they do not have all of the preferred qualifications.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Salary range for this position will be $150,000 – 160,000 commensurate to experience.
• Benefits include 100% employer paid health, vision, and dental plans; matching retirement benefits; generous paid time off.

We have offices located in Boston, MA, New York, NY, and Washington, DC. This position also includes flexibility to be remote.

States United Democracy Center is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law. Women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.