Payroll Title: UCP VIII
Class Code: 0848-9088
Job Family: COM
FLSA Code: Exempt
Score: 623

WRITER/EDITOR IV

JOB SUMMARY

Under the direction of designated administrator, serves as managing editor for one or more major University publications or newspapers which reach a wide reading audience and promote the University and its programs; and represents the university in a public relations role.
 
 

GUIDELINES FOR USING POSITION

The primary responsibilities of this job are that of a managing editor.  Incumbents are expected to plan, organize and produce the publication(s) within broad guidelines established by the administrator, and to make major contributions to editorial policies and publication content.  Incumbents will also perform work of a Writer/Editor III.  Public relations skills are needed with considerable frequency.
 
 

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Serves as managing editor of and is responsible for one or more major publications; plans, manages and edits content, layout and quality of publication, in accordance with broad guidelines and policies established by supervisor.

    2.  
  2. Participates in determining publication goals, policies, number of publications and other editorial matters.

    3.  
  3. Manages the internal production of publication; or oversees the bidding and technical production of publication with outside vendors; serves as liaison with composing room personnel, photographers, production staff and printer(s).

    4.  
  4. Makes appropriate assignments to writers, photographers and other contributors to publication.

    5.  
  5. Approves from, layout and graphic, illustrative and/or photographic work used to accompany written copy.

    6.  
  6. Edits written copy, checking for facts, analysis, grammar and readability and compliance with publication goals and objectives.

    7.  
  7. Responds to and resolve complaints.

    8.  
  8. Serves as a consultant regarding most effective writing, publication and information-giving techniques to reach target audience and achieve desired result.

    9.  
  9. Serves as a senior writer who independently performs the more complex writing assignments.

    10.  
  10. May serve in a public relations capacity, serving as a resource in developing strategies and policies that promote effective relationships with the media and ensure effective delivery of message to target audience; and assists in carrying out those strategies and policies.

    11.  
  11. Plans, organizes and facilitates special public relations projects, such as workshops, special events, conferences.

    12.  
  12. Performs related duties as required.

MINIMUM ACCEPTABLE QUALIFICATIONS

  1. Bachelor's degree in Journalism, English, Communications or related field

    2.  
  2. At least 5 years progressively responsible experience as a writer, editor or equivalent, as appropriate to the department to be served

    3.  
  3. Evidence of masterful writing ability, as demonstrated by writing samples; writing skills suitable for radio or video may be required by some departments.

    4.  
  4. Ability to meet and enforce deadlines, take initiative, work independently to carry out complex assignments, and willingness to work flexible hours.

    5.  
  5. Superior communication, interpersonal and diplomatic skills

    6.  
  6. Strong managerial and organizational skills and ability to make sound journalistic judgments

    7.  
  7. Knowledge of design and production of printed publications and evidence of layout and editing skills

    8.  
  8. Knowledge of radio and video production may be required by some department

Date Revised: 1/88