Job Description
Overview
The Office of Philanthropy Communications at Auburn University is excited to begin the search for a Philanthropy Writing Specialist!
The Philanthropy Writing Specialist is responsible for writing, editing, and delivering high-impact editorial content that advances the university's fundraising efforts.
This role works across a wide range of projects, audiences and platforms to support frontline fundraisers and Advancement leadership. This role blends storytelling excellence with strategic judgment, translating philanthropic gifts to the university into compelling narratives for broad internal and external audiences.
Formal AU Job Title: Communications & Marketing Specialist
Responsibilities
- Leads the development, writing, and editing of high-impact stories and features that support the university’s fundraising efforts.
- Translates philanthropic gifts and academic, research, and institutional initiatives into compelling narratives for broad audiences.
- Sets story framing, messaging, and narrative direction to support institutional goals and brand positioning.
- Researches and composes content for dissemination through a variety of mediums, such as internal or external publications, brochures, posters, newsletters, digital publications, presentations, development/fundraising materials, event programs, press packages, or broadcast media.
- Coordinates the production of materials to include content/style editing, designing, printing, photography, and/or copywriting.
- Coordinates marketing and communication calendars, production schedules, and deadlines, including coordination of work carried out by external vendors.
- Serves as a key collaborator and advisor to campus partners, including frontline fundraisers, on narrative development and fundraising collateral content.
- Evaluates effectiveness of communications, public relations, and/or marketing programs.
- Plans and organizes special events and meetings, as well as participation at conferences or trade shows.
- Maintains files, databases, and electronic records of materials.
- Ensures consistent application of Auburn’s voice, tone, and messaging across platforms.
- Contributes to and oversees web and digital content to ensure quality, accuracy, and alignment.
The responsibilities listed above show the typical duties for jobs in this classification. Actual tasks may differ depending on the department's needs. Other similar duties may be assigned with discretion of the supervisor. Not every duty will apply to every position, and the amount of time spent on each task can change based on department needs.
Qualifications
Level I -
- Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, Marketing or related field
Level II -
- Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, Marketing or related field plus 2 years of experience OR
- Master's degree in Journalism, Communications, Marketing or related field
Level III -
- Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, Marketing or related field plus 6 years of experience OR
- Master's degree in Journalism, Communications, Marketing or related field plus 4 years of experience
Scope of Experience: Experience in marketing and communications services to include print journalism
Experience in philanthropy communications preferred.
Desired Qualifications:
- Writing experience in philanthropy communications, non-profits or higher education Advancement departments.
Minimum Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Advanced writing, editing, and storytelling skills with strong editorial judgment.
- Advanced knowledge of AP Style.
- Strong command of grammar, style, and tone, with the ability to adapt writing for different audiences.
- Proven ability to exercise emotional intelligence, discretion, and sound judgment in managing sensitive matters and relationships.
- Demonstrated ability to produce high-quality content for external audiences.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills.
- Ability to balance multiple stories and priorities.
- Ability to work in complex organizations with multiple stakeholders.
Contract Type
Continuing
Application Instructions
Required Documents for Resume Upload Section
The file uploaded to the Resume Upload section is specific to the job application you are submitting.
The following required documents must be combined into a single file and uploaded under the Resume Upload section:
- Resume
- Cover Letter
Important: Before submitting your application, please review the uploaded file carefully and make sure it includes all required documents for this position. Once your application is submitted, the file attached to that application cannot be edited or replaced.
Please include a link in your resume or cover letter to an online portfolio featuring a variety of writing samples.
Why Work at Auburn
- Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
- Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
- We’re Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
- Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
- A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.
- Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!
Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement
It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance's website to learn more.
Posted Date
11/11/2026
