Copywriter

Position Summary

The Copywriter plays a key role in advancing the University of South Dakota’s brand, voice, and storytelling efforts through the creation of clear, compelling, and audience-focused written content. This position develops copy and long‑form stories for digital and print platforms that support institutional priorities, including enrollment, brand engagement, and academic reputation. The Copywriter collaborates closely with members of the Marketing & University Relations team, university leadership, and campus partners to ensure messaging consistency, quality, and alignment with brand standards.

• Write, edit, and adapt clear, compelling, and brand-consistent content for websites, social media, emails, advertisements, newsletters, video scripts, speeches, and other materials.
• Develop feature and human-interest stories that highlight student success, faculty expertise, alumni achievements, and institutional impact.
• Collaborate with designers, videographers, and digital staff to ensure alignment between written and visual content.
• Tailor messaging to specific audiences to support recruitment, brand engagement, and reputation‑building goals.
• Conduct interviews and research to produce authentic, narrative-driven stories for The South Dakotan magazine and other university publications.
• Partner with content, design, and digital teams to develop copy for marketing campaigns.
• Review and edit materials for accuracy, clarity, and adherence to USD’s brand and editorial standards.
• Maintain consistency of tone, voice, and style across all university communications.

• Bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, communications, marketing, or a related field.
• Minimum of two years of professional writing or editing experience.
• Exceptional command of grammar, punctuation, and AP Style.
• Strong storytelling and editing skills with the ability to write for diverse audiences and formats.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines while maintaining accuracy and brand consistency.

• Cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience.
• Current resume.
• Writing sample.
• Contact information for three professional references.

USD is committed to fostering a dynamic and welcoming working and learning environment for all. USD provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to ideological political or sectarian opinions or perspectives, or race, color, creed, religion, sex, ancestry, disability, national origin or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. USD is committed to the principles of free expression and encourages the timely and rational discussion of topics in an environment that is intellectually and ideologically diverse.