Copywriter

The Creative team within the Office of Communications at the University of Virginia is seeking a marketing and public relations copywriter who is passionate about concepting big ideas, crafting language, and strengthening the narrative, tone and voice of the institution.

As copywriter, you will be responsible for capturing the story of UVA and translating it into clear and compelling marketing and public relations copy that aligns with University priorities, is appropriate for the selected platform or channel, and engages our various audiences, from students to alumni to leaders at other universities. You must be a self-starter, comfortable with developing concepts and copy on a range of projects for UVA as well as collaborating with various partners within the University, including the Office of Undergraduate Admission, Athletics, the President’s Office, Licensing, and many others. You will write everything from video scripts to ad headlines to web content to social media posts, for digital and print platforms. This is a good spot for the versatile and curious.

Whatever the length, form or attitude, the writing should reflect an excellence that befits the UVA brand. This is a unique opportunity for a talented copywriter to become a brand steward for an iconic American institution, one that remains relevant because it evolves. In a similar vein, you must possess the ability to work within an established brand, while also challenging yourself to bring new ideas and creative thinking to projects.

Projects May Include:

Crafting copy for a range of web and print campaigns for the University and its various departments and schools Collaborating with the University Communications Digital Strategy team to craft marketing and public relations content that generates interest and engagement online, including on the web and social media Collaborating with the University Communications Video Production team on narratives and scripts for various videos Collaborating with the University Communications Licensing team to name and/or market UVA or co-branded merchandise Collaborating with the University Communications Marketing team on campaigns and ensuring brand consistency Collaborating with the Digital Strategy and UVA Today teams to adapt news stories into social posts that are appropriate for consumption on different platforms

Responsibilities:

Developing and translating original concepts into clear, compelling, on-brand copy Thinking big-picture while paying attention to accuracy and the details that make the difference Collaborating with designers, developers, filmmakers, and photographers Writing in a range of styles and voices that meet the needs of various clients within UVA Proofreading print and digital copy, ensuring the highest standards are met through project development Adhering to UVA’s style guide and being familiar with AP Style Clearly and thoughtfully articulating the strategic thinking and rationale behind your concepts and copy Taking ownership of projects from concept through production Learning all you can about what makes the University special

To Succeed, You Must:

Bring 3+ years of copywriting experience or the equivalent of a strong portfolio; agency experience is a plus Demonstrate a solid understanding of your craft Be able to develop and translate concepts into clear, compelling, in-brand copy for a variety of mediums Possess a rigorous work ethic while recognizing the value of work/life balance Be a self-motivated, creative problem-solver and multi-tasker Enjoy working closely and collaboratively across the University Communications team Be punctual for meetings; respect deadlines Be comfortable with critiques and red ink Have a healthy sense of humor Gain personal satisfaction from a thing well made

University of Virginia/Office of University Communications/Creative team

The Creative team within the Office of University Communications at the University of Virginia works as a small creative agency within the University and consists of art directors, designers, writers, photographers and filmmakers. Our work covers a variety of disciplines, including advertising, web, print, branding, environmental, editorial, social media, photography and video concepting/creation. The Creative team’s core mission is to strengthen UVA’s positive reputation and increase awareness of how we serve our students, our communities and society. In addition to working on advertising, branding and design projects for the University as a whole, we collaborate on a wide range of projects with a variety of University partners, including the Office of Undergraduate Admission, Athletics, the President’s Office, Licensing, and many others.

Samples of our work can be seen on the University Communications website:

Anticipated hiring range:

$60,000 to $70,000, commensurate with experience.

This position will remain open until filled. This is an Exempt level, benefited position. This position will not sponsor applicants for work visas. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment. For questions about the position or the application process, please contact Daniel Strong, Senior Recruiter at

Please apply through the University job board, Careers at UVA , and search for R0060699 .

Internal applicants must apply through their UVA Workday profile by searching ‘Find Jobs’ or through their ‘Jobs Hub’. Applicants must complete an application online with the following documents: a resume, cover letter, and work portfolio.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education: Bachelor's degree in English or Communications or a related field.
Experience: At least three years of experience
Licensure: None

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This is primarily a sedentary job involving extensive use of desktop computers. The job does occasionally require traveling some distance to attend meetings, and programs.

The University of Virginia, i ncluding the UVA Health System which represents the UVA Medical Center, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, UVA Physician’s Group and the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, are fundamentally committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff. We believe diversity is excellence expressing itself through every person's perspectives and lived experiences. We are equal opportunity and affirmative action employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, veteran status, and family medical or genetic information.

---