Writer

About the role

The CALS Writer develops high-quality editorial content that advances the teaching, research, Extension, and Advancement priorities of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Reporting to the Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications and operating as part of the CALS Marketing and Communications team, the writer receives assignments based on college and university priorities and works across CALS to report, write, edit, and produce compelling content for Virginia Tech News, college websites, newsletters, the CALS digital magazine, Advancement communications, and other channels.

Responsibilities

• Develops high-quality public-facing content for Virginia Tech News, college websites, newsletters, the CALS digital magazine, Advancement communications, and other channels.
• Works with faculty, students, alumni, donors, subject-matter experts, Advancement colleagues, and academic, research, and Extension communicators to identify sources, conduct interviews, develop stories, and ensure content is accurate, engaging, audience-centered, and aligned with college and university priorities.
• Provides editing and editorial production support across CALS, helping maintain consistent standards for accuracy, clarity, AP and Virginia Tech style, brand alignment, and readiness for publication.
• Collaborates with editors, communicators, subject-matter experts, and other partners to develop content.
• Manages multiple assignments, priorities, and deadlines while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, English, public relations, marketing, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Professional experience in communications, journalism, writing, editing, public relations, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience reporting, writing, and producing high-quality public-facing content.
• Demonstrated ability to translate scientific, technical, academic, or complex information into clear and engaging content for non-technical audiences.
• Strong interviewing, reporting, writing, editing, proofreading, and fact-checking skills.
• Experience writing for multiple audiences, formats, and communications channels.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple assignments, priorities, and deadlines while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Experience collaborating with editors, communicators, subject-matter experts, and other partners to develop content.
• Able to receive editorial direction and feedback and revise work effectively.
• Working knowledge of AP style or comparable professional editorial standards.

Qualifications

• Experience writing or editing in higher education, science, agriculture, research, or a related environment.
• Experience writing about scientific or technical subjects for general public audiences.
• Experience developing alumni, donor, fundraising, stewardship, or other Advancement communications.
• Experience writing or editing magazine, newsletter, or long-form feature content.
• Familiarity with agriculture and life sciences, the land-grant mission, Virginia Cooperative Extension, VAES, or ARECs.
• Experience working with content management systems, email publication platforms, or other digital publishing tools.
• Familiarity with Virginia Tech editorial and brand standards.

Skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Cloud, and other relevant software.

Benefits

N/A

Pay

$67,500 - $71,000

Schedule

Varies