SR. WRITER / EDITOR

Communications

The University of California Hastings College of the Law was founded in 1878 as the law department of the University of California and was the first law school in California. Over the years, it has built a legacy and reputation of being a preeminent institution comprised of renowned faculty committed to the study of legal theory and research, preparing students for careers in the judicial system, public service, and industry.

The College is redefining legal education through an experiential, interdisciplinary, and international approach to the law. By integrating rigorous academics with hands-on practice, the College is preparing its graduates to tackle modern legal challenges.

THE ROLE

The Communications Office is responsible for developing and managing a strategic communications program for UC Hastings Law. The primary purpose of this position is to write stories for the UC Hastings Law home page and online magazine and to write/edit copy for other print and online communications. Secondary role: to serve as primary liaison with journalists.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Typical duties and responsibilities consist of, but are not limited to, the following:

Writing/Editing (80%)

• Write news stories for use on the school’s external website

• Write news and feature pieces for the school’s online magazine

• Edit copy written by other writers

• Create content for the school’s year-round campaign to convey news of scholarly and other achievements to prospective US News & World Report voters; coordinate the development of this suite of materials

• Create content for other communications projects in support of admissions, advancement, and other strategic priorities

News identification & planning (5%)

• Track UC Hastings Law people, programs, and initiatives to identify news of strategic importance

• Generate story ideas on a regular basis

• Collaborate with team members to integrate key messages into all forms of communication

Media relations (15%)

• Respond to routine media inquiries; refer journalists directly to faculty or staff experts to facilitate interaction

• Write occasional press releases and media advisories; create media lists for distributing information to journalists

• Pitch stories to journalists to elevate the profile of the school and its faculty

Other related duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, or related field

• Minimum five years of relevant experience, including substantive news writing

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Writing for news/editorial purposes

• English grammar, syntax, and usage; familiarity with AP style

• Major issues facing California, the nation, and the world

• Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills

• Versatility in writing for diverse purposes

• Work with a high degree of independence to identify topics of import, recommend story ideas, write excellent copy, edit other writers’ work, and coordinate editorial projects

• Understand the news value of the college’s various activities and achievements; shape editorial material for specific audiences and outlets

• Produce copy in a crisp and engaging style

• Produce stories quickly and manage multiple assignments simultaneously

• Develop positive relationships with administrators, faculty members, and journalists

BENEFITS

Health and Welfare Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental and vision insurance coverage

• Flexible Spending Accounts for transportation-related, healthcare and dependent care expenses

• Employee Assistance Program

• Commuter Benefits Program

For your Financial Future

• Life Insurance, Disability Insurance, and Legal Insurance

• University of California Retirement Plan (a defined benefit plan)

• Deferred Compensation Plans/Pre-tax Retirement Savings Programs

For your Work/Life Balance

• Fourteen paid holidays per year

• Generous vacation and sick leave

This full-time, exempt opportunity offers a salary range of $65,000 - $90,000 (commensurate with qualifications) plus an excellent benefits package. To apply: https://uc-hastings.breezy.hr/p/01065c739815-senior-writer-editor

Failure to provide the information as required on the application form and to include a resume shall immediately disqualify an applicant from employment consideration. This position has been designated as "sensitive" and requires a pre-employment background check. This position is open until filled.

UC Hastings College of the Law is an Equal Opportunity Employer