How to Apply
A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached to the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your interest in the position and outline skills and experience directly related to this job. Finalists for this position will be asked to submit writing samples.
Job Summary
We are seeking a Communications Associate to support writing, copyediting, research and day-to-day communications for Wallace House programs and events. Primary duties include assisting in developing and copyediting written content, providing editorial support and implementing Wallace House communication strategies and objectives. The Communications Associate will contribute to a wide range of materials, including drafting donor communications, event descriptions, public remarks, website announcements and social media posts. The position also provides administrative and logistical support to the marketing, communications and events team.
This position is ideal for a team player who is eager to build on their communication, writing, and copy-editing skills, has a knack for social media engagement, and has a keen interest in current events, journalism and public engagement. The job is 40 hours per week, with benefits and requires daily in-person work and periodic evening work for public events.
Responsibilities*
Writing and Copyediting (30%)
- Draft a variety of communications materials, including website announcements, event descriptions, e-newsletter content and print materials.
- Provide copy editing support across all Wallace House communications materials, including the print editions of the Wallace House Journal and Livingston Award annual luncheon program, with meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy and adherence to Wallace House style guidelines.
Social Media Content and Engagement (25%)
- Collaborate with the Marketing, Communications and Event team to develop and regularly publish social media content across platforms.
- Assist with short-form video creation, draft posts and support ongoing audience engagement efforts.
- Monitor performance and contribute to content planning.
Research and Content Development (15%)
- Conduct background research to inform event materials, public remarks and communications content.
- Support preparation of speeches and talking points by gathering relevant information on speakers, topics and current events and drafting remarks.
Donor and Development Communications (10%)
- Draft development/fundraising communications, including donor correspondence and outreach content for current and prospective supporters.
Administrative and Communications Support (20%)
- Provide support to the marketing, communications and event team, including distributing e-newsletters, maintaining databases and organizing and archiving print materials, photos, videos and other digital assets.
- Provide administrative and logistical event support to ensure effective execution from pre-planning through day-of setup and pack-up.
- Excellent written communication skills and attention to detail are essential.
- The position requires regular writing and editing for a range of audiences, including prominent speakers, program donors and Knight-Wallace alumni.
- Evening work is periodically required, as events are typically in the late afternoon and early evening.
- The position reports to the Assistant Director for Marketing, Events and Engagement as part of a small staff with work ranging from logistical tasks to collaborative input on strategic communications and execution.
- Successful candidates must understand and respect the importance of diversity and inclusion in a professional environment and be committed to audience and engagement strategies that aim to build a broad and diverse community of participants and supporters of the Wallace House programs.
Required Qualifications*
- 2 - 4 years of professional experience in communications, writing or editing
- Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, English or a related discipline, or equivalent experience demonstrating strong writing and editorial skills.
- Demonstrated writing and copy editing experience for a range of audiences and formats
- Meticulous attention to detail and ability to produce accurate, polished work
- Experience supporting social media engagement and an interest in content creation, trends and audience consumption
- Experience with AP style, New York Times style and content formatting.
- Team player, experienced in collaborative project work
- Strong interest in journalism, current events and public engagement
- Working knowledge of WordPress, Canva, Campaign Monitor or other publishing, video and design platforms
- Database management skills, familiar with FileMaker, Salesforce or similar programs
Desired Qualifications*
- Experience in development/fundraising communications
- Familiarity with journalism organizations and the industry
- Avid news consumer across traditional and digital platforms
Modes of Work
The work requires, or the supervisor approves a fully onsite presence. Onsite is defined as a designated U-M owned or leased work location within or outside of the State of Michigan.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.