News Writer

About the role

The Office of Communications and Public Engagement News Writer plays a critical role in researching, writing, and field reporting of news and current events that encapsulate the spirit of Liberty University's student life, academics, athletics, and administration. The primary responsibility is to uncover compelling and pertinent stories from students, faculty, and key administrators that effectively promote Liberty's mission and programming to internal and external audiences.

Responsibilities

• Able to take assignments, pursue leads, field interviews, analyze and verify relevant facts and information and write compelling interest stories.
• Must be able to write clean copy that is factually and grammatically correct following all formatting guidelines.
• Create original written content for LU News, all Liberty owned websites, and the Liberty Journal magazine.
• Keep and maintain a regular schedule for beat reporting that builds professional rapport with deans, faculty, and administrators.
• Must be able to work independently in the office and in the field without strict oversight or supervision and in a expeditious manner charging towards a deadline.
• Strictly adhere to Liberty University policies, representing the University in an exemplary manner.
• Works effectively as a team member, embracing and fostering LU’s mission.

Qualifications and Credentials

• Minimum Qualifications: Bachelors degree in journalism, communications, or a related field.
• Working knowledge and proficiency with Microsoft Office, Adobe Suite and quick learner of Liberty systems and online tools.
• Good telephone etiquette, writing proficiency, multi-tasking and problem-solving skills.
• Must have maintain etiquette and have the ability to adapt to changing environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• In addition to a relevant Bachelors degree, 2 years’ experience as a news writer or journalist.
• Significant experience in a writing-related field that involves reporting, copy editing, and storytelling.
• Proficient with Liberty proprietary systems and software.

ABILITIES AND COMPETENCIES

• Communication and Comprehension: Ability to effectively communicate both verbally and in writing to convey clear, well-articulated information.
• Problem Solving: Intuitively able to reason, analyze information and events, and apply judgment in order to solve problems of both a routine and complex nature.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• The working environment in which one will typically perform the essential functions of this position is a climate-controlled setting. It is well lighted and the noise level is moderate. Working environment also includes facilitation of events outdoors occasionally.
• Driving Requirements: Use of one’s personal vehicle (or LU vehicles) may be required for travel in the performance of the essential functions of this position. Proof of a valid Virginia driver’s license, an acceptable DMV record, and liability insurance is required.

Pay Range

$19.23 - $24.04

Benefits

The position may also be eligible for comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and tuition assistance.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe it is our moral and legal obligation to meet the responsibility of ensuring that all management practices regarding employees are conducted in a nondiscriminatory manner. In compliance with Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, and other applicable federal and state statutes, all recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting for all job classifications will be administered without regard to race, color, ancestry, age, sex, national origin, pregnancy or childbirth, disability, military veteran status or other applicable status protected by law, including state of employment protected classes.