Staff Writer

Staff Writer
Position Summary
Reporting to the Assistant Director of Media Communications & Relations, the primary role of this position is to write compelling, high‑quality content that tells the story of the University of Georgia’s achievements and impact. This individual will produce a wide range of written materials—including magazine features, news stories, profiles, and narrative content—for a wide range of audiences across print and digital platforms. The Staff Writer will produce clear, engaging content across a broad portfolio of assignments such as strategic initiatives, research, campus life, institutional achievements, and timely news. The writer will develop content for publications and platforms managed by the Division, including but not limited to UGA Today, Georgia Magazine, marketing campaigns, institutional news, web content, and email newsletters.

Responsibilities
Content Development & Storytelling

Works independently to research, interview, and write news, feature stories, profiles, and narrative content that reflects the University of Georgia’s mission and strategic priorities.

Produces executive‑level messaging, institutional announcements, and general assignment stories for multiple platforms.

Serve as the lead narrative creator for flagship institutional stories, major research features, and special publications.

Independently identify, develop, and lead complex storytelling projects, determining narrative structure, themes, tone, and stylistic direction with minimal oversight.

Develop narrative strategy for major communications initiatives, shaping editorial direction and ensuring creative alignment with institutional goals.

Percentage of time: 65%

Editing & Quality Assurance

Serves as backup to the Managing Editor to edit and refine written content produced by colleagues and campus partners as needed to ensure clarity, consistency, tone, and adherence to brand and editorial standards.

Provides constructive feedback and helps maintain the overall quality and integrity of published content.

Provides expert guidance to campus stakeholders on narrative development, messaging approaches, and best practices in creative communication.

Percentage of time: 15%

Content Planning & Story Development

Identifies and pitches story ideas that align with institutional priorities and audience interests.

Works with colleagues across schools, colleges, and administrative units to discover compelling stories and develop editorial opportunities.

Creates long‑form and multimedia‑supported content that requires substantial originality, critical thinking, and interpretation of complex topics for a wide range of audiences.

Percentage of time: 10%

UGA Today Website and Email

Serves as backup for UGA Today email newsletter production and distribution as well as UGA Today website content publication and organization management.

Percentage of time: 5%

Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, English, public relations, or a related field.

One to three years of professional writing, journalism, or communications experience.

Demonstrated experience writing news stories, features, profiles, or narrative content for print or digital platforms.

Familiarity with higher education environments and the ability to translate complex topics into accessible, engaging stories.

Ability to adapt writing style and tone for different audiences and platforms.

Familiarity with AP Style and standard journalistic editing practices.

Experience with content management systems (CMS) or web publishing tools.

Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple assignments and deadlines in a collaborative communications environment.

Contact
James Hataway

Email: jhataway@uga.edu

EEO Statement
The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ( hrweb@uga.edu ).

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