Writer/Editor (IS-1082-12) - Smithsonian Institution

Description

• Pass Pre-employment Background Check and Subsequent Background Investigation for position designated.
• Complete a Probationary Period.
• Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer.
• The position is open to all candidates eligible to work in the United States.  Proof of eligibility to work in U.S. is not required to apply.
• Applicants must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement. 

OVERVIEW

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Write or edit a variety of official documents including direct response materials, proposals and reports to individuals, foundations and corporations, publications such as case statements and informational brochures, communications materials such as press releases, newsletters, cultivation, solicitation and acknowledgment letters, and scripts for audio and visual programs. Prepare briefings, background materials, and talking points. 
• Write speeches and text for visual presentations and develop advancement position papers for senior management. 
• Write, edit, and manage production of ongoing major communications projects (often simultaneous) -- such as event-related collateral copy for the Museum’s website, input to press releases, remarks, and stewardship updates.  
• Oversee production of print pieces from draft creation through distribution of final product by executing, supervising, or managing article/topic selection, research, contract writing/editing, vendor deliverables -- from page proofs and blue lines to mail house operations -- on time and within budget. Final authority for quality control of text, illustrations, and layout. 
• Participate in working groups to plan, coordinate and execute original communications products and publications related to special events and programs. Develop content for information brochures; write, review, and edit drafts of correspondence, reports, and brochures for distribution to diverse audiences; draft articles and reports on the status of major initiatives for distribution to members, prospects, the public, volunteer support groups, and special interest groups. Alternately function as project leader and team member. 
• Edit and prepare manuscripts on two levels: (1) copy editing (employing skills that assure consistency and accuracy within a manuscript regarding grammar, punctuation, syntax, and acceptable Smithsonian style); and (2) substantive editing which calls upon the editor's critical sense and intuitive evaluation of factual accuracy and consistency of information. The latter also requires constant check of such matters as chronology of events, overall consistency of subject matter; verification of matters of fact; selective rearrangement or deletion of material; analysis of tabular information; suitability and completeness of illustrations; and evaluation of documentation as to accuracy and thoroughness. 
• Establish policy for style, readability and consistency for written products and publications produced by the Office of Advancement. Ensure that the language level is appropriate for the stated audience and that the necessary background information is provided.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

1. Knowledge in techniques to design and develop written products that convey ideas, messages, and the significance of visual or physical designs to increase understanding. 
2. Knowledge of fundraising marketing and communications techniques including, but not limited to, proposal writing, public relations, prospect research, volunteer management, and correspondence management. 
3. Knowledge of proposal and publications development with writing and editing experience preferable for a non-profit organization or marketing agency/team. 
4. Knowledge and experience in conducting research projects and documenting findings. 
5. Skill in writing, editing, analyzing, and translating difficult and complex scientific and/or technical material into language comprehensible to non-specialists to produce museum exhibition labels that are accessible to a wide variety of audiences. NMAAHC uses the Chicago Manual of Style for formatting and citing sources. Proficiency in Chicago style is preferred.
6. Skill in interviewing a variety of people and gathering and synthesizing information from many sources. 
7. Skill in the use of a variety of personal computer software applications, including desktop publishing. 
8. Skills to facilitate work with a wide range of individuals and groups from culturally diverse publics. 
9. Ability to communicate orally and in writing with management, technical staff, administrative staff, and others to establish effective working relationships.