Writer

The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (NYC DOHMH) is one of the largest public health agencies globally, serving 8 million New Yorkers. With a $2.3 billion annual budget and over 7,000 employees across the five boroughs, DOHMH addresses a broad range of public health issues through innovative programs. This role is part of a CDC-funded initiative to modernize DOHMH’s data infrastructure and improve public health outcomes, including COVID-19 response. The selected candidate will be employed by Public Health Solutions but supervised by DOHMH, with the position funded through November 2027.

About the Role

The Office of External Affairs manages critical public interactions, from health awareness campaigns to emergency responses. The Bureau of Communications, within this office, develops culturally responsive marketing campaigns, creates accessible health materials, provides translation services, maintains the agency’s website, and manages social media content. The Content and Copy team in Creative Communications oversees writing, editing, and content creation for key health topics and emergencies.

This role supports the NYC Health Commissioner’s internal communications, including a weekly newsletter. The Writer will craft compelling, employee-facing stories to inform, engage, and align DOHMH’s 7,000 staff with agency objectives. The position requires collaboration with the executive communications team, managing editorial and design elements, and meeting weekly deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the lead writer for the NYC Health Commissioner’s internal content, including a weekly newsletter.
• Plan, conduct, and execute internal interviews with staff on deadline.
• Develop and publish internal communications content in collaboration with the Executive Communications Manager.
• Champion and uplift stories of NYC Health Department employees for an audience of 7,000 colleagues.
• Source and identify internal stories to maintain a credible, concise tone across departments.
• Adhere to AP style guidelines for all content.
• Manage logistics for story selection and meet weekly deadlines.
• Provide occasional research and drafting support for remarks, video scripts, and social copy.
• Develop creative messaging to elevate the NYC Health Commissioner’s profile among agency staff.
• Maintain a master internal communications calendar aligned with the Communications Bureau’s strategy.
• Collaborate with the creative communications team on newsletter design elements.
• Translate staff stories into social media copy.
• Coordinate with internal subject matter experts and design partners to ensure accuracy and professionalism.
• Contribute to broader executive communications strategy and projects.
• Ensure all content meets accessibility, inclusivity, and language access standards.
• Create and maintain a robust internal communications archive and story bank.
• Perform additional duties as assigned, including flexibility for emergency non-business hours.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, or related field; advanced degree or equivalent professional experience a plus.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in editorial planning, ghost writing, or internal communications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex or technical information.
• Strong interviewing skills, with the ability to put people at ease and solicit stories.
• Familiarity with newsletter production workflows and internal communications metrics.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Collaborative mindset and comfort working with cross-functional partners.
• Understanding of editorial workflows and approval processes.
• Familiarity with New York City government, civic engagement, or public health is highly desirable.
• Interest in speechwriting, as occasional support for the Commissioner’s speechwriter may be required.

Skills

• Proficiency in AP style.
• Experience with content accessibility standards and plain language best practices.
• Project management skills, including administering deadlines and long-term deliverables.
• Cultural competency in creating inclusive content for diverse communities.

Benefits

• Hybrid work schedule.
• Generous paid time off and holidays.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Flexible spending accounts and commuter benefits.
• Company-paid life insurance and disability coverage.
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching and discretionary contributions.
• College savings plan.
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.

Schedule

• Monday–Friday, 35 hours per week.
• Flexibility to work non-business hours during emergencies.

This is a temporary, grant-funded position ending in November 2027. The candidate must reside in the tri-state area (NY, NJ, CT) by their start date, with preference given to those in New York City or surrounding counties.