Senior Communications Writer - Remote U.S.

About Common App

Common App is a national nonprofit organization committed to increasing access, fairness, and integrity in the college admissions landscape. Each year, it supports over one million students — with one-third being first-generation — as they submit applications through the Common App’s free online platform accepted by more than 1100 member colleges and universities.

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior Communications Writer to join our Communications & Marketing team, reporting to the Director of Media & External Affairs. This role centers on crafting engaging, clear, and audience-focused communications aimed at counselors, member institutions, and students. Responsibilities include planning, composing, and polishing newsletters, campaign emails, and announcements that inform and motivate diverse audiences by transforming complex topics into accessible narratives.

Key Responsibilities

• Create and edit audience-specific communications including newsletters and announcements to engage stakeholders.
• Own editorial calendars to maintain consistency and alignment with the Common App’s voice and brand across platforms.
• Analyze communication effectiveness using metrics and audience feedback to propose improvements.
• Manage multiple deadlines independently while coordinating with internal and external teams.
• Provide editorial guidance and support to colleagues to ensure message coherence.
• Adapt messaging dynamically in response to organizational changes and stakeholder input.

Required Qualifications

• Must reside in the United States with willingness to travel twice yearly for Common App retreats.
• 4 to 6 years of professional experience in writing or communications.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in communications, journalism, English, marketing, or related discipline.
• Experience producing targeted communications such as newsletters, campaign emails, or announcements.
• Proficiency in email marketing platforms, CRM systems, and digital publishing tools.
• Strong storytelling skills with the ability to simplify complex information about organizational priorities, policies, or technical details.
• Excellent editorial judgment and ability to manage editorial calendars strategically.
• Critical thinking skills to recognize communication patterns and innovate content strategies.
• Outstanding organizational abilities to coordinate complex projects effectively.
• Team collaboration aptitude and peer mentoring capabilities.
• Flexibility in adjusting messaging based on changing needs and feedback.

Preferred Experience

• Background in project planning and management.
• Experience in high-pressure settings such as government, public policy, or communications agencies.
• Familiarity with higher education space, non-profit sector, or education technology.
• Knowledge of government affairs or public policy is a plus.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary range: $85,120 to $95,760 annually.

• Flexible virtual-first work environment with strong emphasis on work-life balance.
• Generous paid time off including PTO, seven company holidays, nine floating holidays (prorated), sick leave, and monthly mental health days.
• Home office setup support with laptop choice, peripherals stipend, and monthly remote work and mobile stipends.
• Comprehensive financial benefits including competitive pay, performance bonuses, and a 403(b) retirement plan with company contributions and immediate participation.
• Extensive health insurance options including medical, dental, vision, health savings accounts, flexible spending accounts, and access to virtual health clinics.
• Additional protections like life and disability insurance, with options to purchase supplemental coverage.
• Professional development funds and growth opportunities within the organization.
• Extra perks including employee assistance programs, will preparation, travel assistance, pet insurance, and family password management tools.

Application Security Notice

Common App maintains a secure hiring process and will not offer jobs without an interview, request payment for processing, or ask for sensitive financial information. Candidates are advised to be vigilant against scams and seek help from official authorities if needed.