Writer/Editor

New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) is the State’s affordable housing agency, with a mission to build, preserve, and protect affordable housing and increase homeownership throughout New York State.

A Civil Service exam is not required for this position. Candidates must meet the minimum qualifications outlined below to be considered.

NYS Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Our work would not be possible without the diverse backgrounds, experiences, ideas, and abilities of our employees. HCR is committed to developing a workforce which represents the diverse population of New York State. HCR embraces a diverse and inclusive work environment by encouraging all individuals, including those with disabilities, to apply to open positions at the agency.

The Public Information Office (PIO) identifies opportunities to promote agency activities and initiatives, serves as HCR’s liaison with the media, and plans and executes public events. PIO values professionals that enjoy working in a fast-paced environment and who have the skills required to effectively support the department’s mission to provide the public and media with timely and accurate information and to enhance communications and relationships between New Yorkers and the agency.

Essential Duties / Responsibilities:

• Produces compelling content that conveys the Agency's vision and mission to a variety of audiences.
• Drafts speeches, briefings, talking points, and additional executive materials for the Commissioner and senior staff.
• Works with the External Affairs unit to develop a communication strategy that aligns with overall Agency and Executive Chamber priorities.
• Writes and edits external communications materials such as press releases, articles, op-eds, and a wide range of digital content.
• Generates ideas and strategies for press announcements, social media campaigns, and other communication initiatives.
• Reviews external and internal content to ensure accuracy and clarity, and that materials meet Agency style and branding guidelines.
•  Supports Agency and Executive Chamber public events.

This position requires occasional travel. Amount of travel varies throughout the year. This job description is not intended to be all inclusive and employee will be expected to perform other reasonably related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications and Desired Skills 

• Bachelor's degree in English, Journalism, Communications, or Public Relations a related writing-intensive field.
• 3-5 years of relevant writing and editing experience, with government and/or housing industry and Executive level writing experience preferred. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), potentially specialized software like SharePoint.
• Mastery of grammar, style guides, proofreading, and an ability to translate complex information for a non-specialist audience
• Strong attention to detail, time management, ability to meet deadlines, excellent communication, and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively.