Rapid Response Writer Job at Freedom Forum Institute Inc in Olympia

Rapid Response Writer Department: Digital Reports to: Content Managing Editor FLSA: Exempt Prepared: December 2025 To apply: Apply here Summary/Objective The Rapid Response Writer will work with our Digital Director and Digital Rapid Response Team to tell compelling, nonpartisan and newsworthy stories that connect diverse audiences to the First Amendment. The work will involve researching, writing, editing and fact‑checking, often on tight deadlines. The Rapid Response Writer will research and produce content that supports Freedom Forum’s mission to foster First Amendment freedoms for all and engage a general audience to help people better understand their First Amendment freedoms and how they relate to everyday Americans. The content produced is generally for a digital audience. The Rapid Response Writer will produce articles and occasionally other forms of content for use across digital and social media platforms. This individual should be digital‑mindful and a skilled writer who can work on tight deadlines when necessary to create engaging, thoroughly researched content designed to educate all Americans about their First Amendment freedoms. This position reports to the Content Managing Editor, who reports to the Chief Digital Officer. Essential responsibilities include but are not limited to: Create nonpartisan, factual, engaging and educational articles that respond to, help explain and provide analysis on real‑time and sometimes breaking/developing news situations involving First Amendment issues. Research, fact‑check and identify appropriate sources for articles on developing news stories, often on tight deadlines. Work and conduct interviews with Freedom Forum’s First Amendment experts and/or outside experts to translate sometimes complex First Amendment issues for a general‑interest audience. Ability to tell compelling stories that connect a digital audience to the First Amendment in strategic ways. Assist with developing copy for social media campaigns about the First Amendment as needed, with a goal to reach new and broad audiences with engaging First Amendment messages. Assist with conceptualizing, researching and writing scripts for digital videos. Follow the guidelines set by the Digital team and the Content Managing Editor to align with Freedom Forum’s voice. Assist with the development of new editorial initiatives when needed. If requested and approved, represent Freedom Forum among journalism and press industry groups and conferences, helping to maintain connections between journalism professional associations and Freedom Forum staff. Knowledge of U.S. government, civics and the First Amendment is preferred but not required At least five years of experience writing on tight deadlines, including storytelling and idea generating. A background in journalism is a plus Deadline‑driven with an excellent attention to detail, writing and copyediting skills The ability to break down complex topics for a broad audience Demonstrated skill at writing for a digital audience: simple language, short sentences, clarity and use of search engine optimization words A track record of effectively adapting to the changing media landscape and a readiness to learn how to write and create engaging content for new media platforms A willingness to dive into First Amendment issues and a desire to help explain those complex issues to diverse audiences Ability to interview subjects for articles as needed Ability to juggle multiple projects at a time and flexibility to change course in a project Ability to work collaboratively across teams A self‑starter who contributes original thinking and creative energy to our work, and who collaborates and understands the benefits of a good editor and critical thinking Experience telling stories using social media is a plus but not a requirement An adherence to journalistic standards of accuracy, fairness, nonpartisanship and attention to detail in producing content Salary: The salary range for this position is $115,000 - $120,000 plus benefits. Location: Remote with preference for Washington, D.C. If DC-based, up to 10% onsite. Requires up to 10% overnight travel. Application Process Priority application deadline is Monday, January 12, 2026. To apply, please upload your resume and respond to the application questions on the application page. Freedom Forum is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, pregnancy, age, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Our Commitment to an Inclusive Workplace Diversity is an integral part of Freedom Forum's history, and it is vital to our future. As chair and CEO of Gannett, the largest U.S. newspaper company, our founder Al Neuharth championed the hiring and promotion of people from different backgrounds to help ensure Gannett newsrooms reflected the nation. His legacy lives on at Freedom Forum, where we are committed to creating an environment where all are respected, valued, encouraged and supported. We believe everyone's experience and perspective matters. Our staff is committed to promoting awareness, understanding, and appreciation of diversity throughout our organization and fostering an inclusive culture of belonging. #J-18808-Ljbffr