Job Description

Classification:

Exempt

Job Family:

Operations

Reports to:

Manager, CommunicationsOVERALL RESPONSIBILITIES

The Advancement Communications Writer is responsible for developing compelling written materials that support fundraising, stewardship, donor engagement, and institutional advancement priorities.

This role focuses on translating Whitehead Institute’s research and priorities into clear, compelling, and donor-focused communications. The Writer works closely with advancement staff and the Manager of Communications to create materials that are audience-appropriate and aligned with institutional messaging.

CHARACTERISTIC DUTIES

• Draft and edit donor-facing materials, including:

  • Gift acknowledgements

  • Proposals and supporting materials

  • Stewardship reports

  • Case statements and one-pagers

• Edit, proofread, and revise materials to ensure clarity, accuracy, consistency, persuasiveness, and alignment with institutional messaging and editorial standards.

• Translate complex scientific research and institutional priorities into accessible, engaging language for non-technical audiences.

• Adapt and revise donor-facing materials based on audience, purpose, donor strategy, and feedback, ensuring consistent messaging across communication channels and alignment with guidance from advancement staff and the Manager of Communications.

• Incorporate foundational science content developed by the Science Writer into donor-facing/prospective donor materials on all platforms/channels.

• Collaborate with advancement staff, leadership, and institutional partners to develop donor communications, briefing materials, fundraising content, and stewardship materials that align with institutional messaging and campaign priorities.

• Contribute to the development of written content for fundraising campaigns & annual fund appeals.

• Manage multiple writing assignments simultaneously by tracking drafts, revisions, approvals, and deadlines, and maintaining organized records of work.

• Escalate complex or sensitive content issues as appropriate.

• Other duties, as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, English, journalism, or related field required.

• 3–5 years of professional writing experience, preferably in advancement, nonprofit, higher education, or science communications.

• Demonstrated ability to write clearly and persuasively for multiple audiences.

• Strong editing and storytelling skills.

• Ability to translate complex or technical material into accessible language

• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple deadlines.

• High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate effectively.

• Ability to work independently with appropriate guidance.

• Proficiency with standard productivity tools (e.g., Microsoft Office, Google Workspace).

Whitehead provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of what the Institute reasonably expects to pay for a position at the time of posting. The pay offered to a selected candidate during hiring will be based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience and education/training, and internal peer equity. This pay range represents base pay only and does not include any other benefits or compensation.

• Pay Range Minimum: 65,000

• Pay Range Maximum: 80,000

Whitehead Institute is an E-Verify employer

https://e-verify.uscis.gov/web/media/resourcesContents/E-Verify_Participation_Poster_ES.pdf