To Apply

Please send a cover letter and resume to awpcareers@awpwriter.org with “Full-Time Copyeditor” in the subject line of the email.

Position

The Association of Writers & Writing Program (AWP) amplifies the voices of writers and the academic programs and organizations that serve them while championing diversity and excellence in creative writing. As a member of the staff, the Copyeditor is responsible for editing all written communication issued by AWP including but not limited to AWP’s website, magazine, email campaigns, social media, external and internal reports, grant applications, and conference programs and signage.

This is a remote, full-time position, with travel required one week per year for the annual conference. The Copyeditor reports directly to the Director of Communications & Technology and works in close collaboration with all staff members who create copy for their respective departments.

Key Responsibilities:

Editing Copy

• Correct grammar and spelling and ensure consistent terminology
• Bring all text in line with the Chicago Manual of Style and AWP’s Brand & Style Guide
• Check facts and raise queries with the author of the copy
• Implement best practices in messaging for social media
• Reinforce a friendly and professional tone; offer a consistent voice in line with AWP’s mission
• Improve overall written structure to make sure content is clear, engaging, and concise
• Perform final edits for each Writer’s Chronicle article and a second thorough check of each issue proof of The Writer’s Chronicle magazine in its various formats

Using Technology

• Edit directly in a variety of programs, including administrative panel of website, Microsoft Word, and Google and Adobe suites
• Check that all embedded hyperlinks are live and lead to the intended targets
• Make sure that alt text is present for all images and write new alt text where necessary
• Confirm nested heading and listing structures are accurate and reformat where necessary
• Help maintain messaging strategies such as the social media editorial calendar and biweekly newsletter spreadsheet
• Work directly in MailChimp to edit copy and send test emails to all approvers

Other Responsibilities

• Assist during the week of the conference (either working on-site in whatever capacity is needed or moderating social media messaging remotely)
• Help maintain a comprehensive copy style manual in line with AWP’s overall style
• Carry out other duties as reasonably requested by the Director of Communications & Technology

Work Environment and Physical Demands

• Work involves potential pressures generated by volume of work, frequent interruptions, seasonal work periods, and irregular hours to meet deadlines and achieve objectives.
• Work includes speaking, listening, reading, extended periods of computer operation, possibly sitting for long periods, and some travel.

Note: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Requirements

Note: Only candidates working from one of the following states may apply: CT, FL, MD, NC, NH, OH, OR, PA, TX, VA. Candidates residing in other states are ineligible for hire.

• Bachelor’s degree in English, communications, journalism, or related field
• 2–4 years copyediting experience
• Extensive knowledge of the Chicago Manual of Style (17^th Edition)
• Highly organized and detailed-oriented
• The ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office, InDesign, and Google suite
• Working knowledge of Mailchimp
• Familiarity with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines

Benefits

• $42,000 annual salary
• Health, vision, and dental insurance (largely subsidized for employee & family)
• 401(k) match
• Paid time off
• Telework

Background of the Organization

AWP provides support, advocacy, resources, and community for writers, college and university creative writing programs, and writers’ conferences and centers. As a national professional association of creative writers and writing programs, AWP brings together independent writers, academic writing programs, journals, presses, and arts organizations, united by a love for the literary arts. In addition to hosting the largest annual gathering of writers in North America, AWP builds supportive communities through its extensive website, thriving mentorship program, and magazine dedicated to the craft of writing.

AWP is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1967. Our mission is to amplify the voices of writers and the academic programs and organizations that serve them while championing diversity and excellence in creative writing.

Our staff is passionate about writers and writing programs. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the forefront of our work amid calls for racial justice and changing conditions. We continue to refine and add value to existing programs that have proven to be beneficial to our members and the literary community.

AWP is an equal opportunity employer and encourages all applicants regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. AWP is committed to having a workforce that reflects the diversity of the population that it serves at all levels within the organization.