What are the responsibilities and job description for the Digital Content and Copywriter position at Hamline University?
Founded in 1854, Hamline was the first university in Minnesota and among the first coeducational institutions in the nation. Hamline University provides a world-class education for undergraduate and graduate students. Our faculty, staff, and students cultivate an ethic of civic responsibility, social justice, and inclusive leadership and service.
Hamline University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. Hamline University does not discriminate on the basis of race; color; religion; creed; sex; sexual orientation; gender identity; gender expression; national origin; marital status; familial status; status with regard to public assistance; membership or activity in a local human rights commission; disability; age; protected veteran status; or any other status protected by applicable law in its education or employment programs or activities. The University will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities.
JOB SUMMARY
The Digital Content & Copywriter is responsible for developing compelling and brand-aligned written content for various digital and print platforms. This role blends traditional copywriting with digital content strategy, ensuring consistency in voice and messaging across website content, social media, email marketing, advertising, and other institutional communications. The position requires a strong understanding of digital engagement strategies, SEO best practices, and audience-focused storytelling.
Copywriting & Brand Messaging
- Develop and refine copy for marketing collateral, including digital and print advertisements, brochures, email campaigns, and institutional publications.
- Ensure content aligns with the university’s brand voice, messaging framework, and strategic priorities.
- Work closely with the marketing and communications team to create compelling messaging for enrollment, advancement, and institutional branding initiatives.
- Work with Project Manager to develop editorial or content calendars to ensure strategic alignment and timely delivery of campaigns.
Digital & Social Media Content Creation
- Write and edit content for social media platforms, developing copy that aligns with institutional goals and engages key audiences.
- Tailor content for specific platforms
- Produce digital storytelling content, including blog posts, student and faculty features, and multimedia narratives.
- Collaborate with designers, videographers, and marketing colleagues to develop integrated digital campaigns.
- Contribute to or manage live updates or stories during events
- Monitor social media trends and engagement metrics to inform content strategy and optimize performance.
- Develop SEO-driven content strategies to enhance website visibility and improve search rankings.
- Ensure website content is engaging, user-friendly, and aligned with institutional priorities.
- Utilize web analytics and content performance data to inform ongoing strategy and content updates.
- Conduct periodic audits of existing web content for accuracy, branding, and optimization
- Write or edit meta descriptions, image alt text, and other elements that support SEO.
- Work closely with admissions, advancement, and academic departments to craft messaging that supports recruitment, retention, and fundraising efforts.
- Contribute to institutional storytelling efforts by identifying and developing content that highlights the university’s mission, student success, faculty expertise, and alumni impact.
- Stay informed about best practices in digital marketing, copywriting, and audience engagement, recommending and implementing innovative content strategies.
- Provide editorial support to faculty, staff, or leadership with editing or ghostwriting opinion pieces, blog posts, or internal memos.
- Participate in project planning meetings and contributing to timelines and content workflows, especially for large campaigns.
- Assist with messaging to internal audiences when needed
- Perform additional work-related duties as assigned. The omission of specific duties does not preclude the supervisor from assigning duties that are logically related to the position.
REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS
This position reports to the: Senior Writer and Editor
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND KEY COMPETENCIES
- Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills across various mediums, with the ability to adapt tone and style for different platforms and audiences.
- Strong proficiency in grammar, style, and adherence to editorial guidelines.
- Ability to write persuasively and develop strategic content for different audiences.
- Experience managing content across digital and social media platforms.
- Proficiency in content management systems, social media scheduling tools, and analytics platforms.
- Knowledge of SEO principles and digital content optimization strategies.
- Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively across teams.
- Strategic thinking and creativity in content development.
- Strong project management skills with the ability to meet deadlines.
- Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in storytelling
- Bachelor’s degree in communication, journalism, English, communications, marketing, or a related field OR equivalent experience.
- 3 years of experience in copywriting, digital content creation, or social media marketing, preferably in higher education, nonprofit, or an agency setting.
- Demonstrated writing, editing, and storytelling skills with the ability to adapt tone and style for different platforms and audiences.
- Experience managing content across digital and social media platforms.
- Working knowledge of SEO principles and web content optimization best practices.
PREFERRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE
- Experience with brand storytelling in a higher education setting.
- Familiarity with content management systems, social media scheduling tools, and analytics platforms.
- Knowledge of AP style and best practices for web writing.
- Experience with video scripting, multimedia storytelling, or email marketing.
- Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, or similar design tools for content creation.
WORKING CONDITIONS / EQUIPMENT
Must perform the following essential functions with or without a reasonable accommodation:
- Must be able to work on a computer for extended periods of time.
- Ability to work an on-call schedule.
- Ability to work evenings and weekends as required and to travel occasionally for university-related events.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- This is a full time, 1.0 FTE, exempt position, 12 months a year.
Compensation and Benefits:
Pay Range: $50,000 - $55,000 annually
Full-Time Benefits:
We offer a comprehensive benefits package which may include:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Life insurance
- Short- and Long-Term Disability
- Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity
- 403(b)
- 403(b) matching
- Paid Time off, including vacation time, paid holidays and safe and sick leave time off
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account (FSA)
- Health savings account (HSA)
- Tuition waiver
All questions marked ‘Required’ need to be answered in order to submit the application. It is important that your application show all of the relevant education and experience you possess. Applications may be rejected if incomplete. If rejected, you must reapply for the position in order to be considered. A resume or curriculum vitae, a cover letter outlining your qualifications for and interest in the position, contact information for 3 current, professional references, as well as copies of transcripts (if required) must be uploaded with each application .
Salary : $50,000 - $55,000
