Senior Communications Writer

Common App

Senior Communications Writer at Common App developing compelling messaging for core stakeholders. Focused on college admissions process and engaging diverse audiences with clear communication.

Posted 7/15/2026full-timeRemote • Virginia • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $85,120 - $95,760 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates advanced writing and narrative development skills, with a focus on audience-centered storytelling and the ability to translate complex information into engaging communications. Proficient in managing editorial strategies and optimizing content through critical analysis of engagement metrics.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Advanced Writing & Narrative DevelopmentTechnical Proficiency in Communications ToolsEditorial Ownership & Strategy RefinementComplex Project CoordinationExperience in Higher Education

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Audience-Specific CommunicationsContent OptimizationProject PlanningEditorial Calendar ManagementEngagement Metrics Analysis

Soft Skills

Collaborative MindsetCritical ThinkingAdaptabilityOrganizational SkillsPeer Guidance

Tools & Technologies

Email Marketing PlatformsCRM SystemsDigital Publishing Tools

Industry Keywords

Higher EducationNon-ProfitsEducational InstitutionsEducation TechnologyGovernment AffairsPublic Policy

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Develop and deliver compelling, audience-centered messaging to core stakeholders: counselors, members, and students.
Responsible for planning, writing, and editing newsletters, announcements, and other communications that inform, engage, and inspire audiences.
Translate complex information into clear, accessible, and motivating messages tailored to diverse audiences.

Requirements

What you’ll need

Candidates must live in the United States.
Willing to travel to attend twice annual Common App Retreat.
4-6 years of experience.
Bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, English, marketing, or a related field,or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Experience producing audience-specific communications (e.g., newsletters, campaign emails, or announcements).
Familiarity with email marketing platforms, CRM systems, or digital publishing tools.
Collaborative mindset and ability to translate complex ideas into engaging narratives.
Advanced Writing & Narrative Development: Mastery of audience-centered storytelling with the ability to translate complex organizational priorities, higher education policy, or technical updates into clear, accessible, and motivating narratives.
Editorial Ownership & Strategy Refinement: Ability to take ownership of editorial calendars and messaging consistency across multiple platforms, ensuring all content aligns with the established brand voice and tone.
Critical Thinking & Pattern Recognition: Ability to analyze engagement metrics and audience feedback to identify communication gaps and propose innovative solutions for content optimization.
Complex Project Coordination: Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple high-stakes deadlines and navigate the needs of diverse internal and external stakeholders independently.
Technical Proficiency in Communications Tools: Advanced skill in using email marketing platforms, CRM systems, and digital publishing tools to produce and distribute audience-specific communications.
Collaboration & Peer Guidance: Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment and provide guidance or peer-review support to ensure messaging alignment across the department.
Adaptability: Adjusts messaging and priorities in response to changing organizational needs or feedback.
Experience with project planning and management.
Prior experience in a fast-paced working environment, including but not limited to state government, federal government experience, and communications agency experience.
Knowledge of key issues in higher education.
Experience in Higher Education.
Experience working for non-profits, educational institutions, or education technology.
Government affairs and/or public policy experience.

Benefits

Comp & perks

Work-Life balance
Virtual-first office
Paid Time Off (PTO)
Seven company-wide holidays
Nine floating holidays*
Sick leave
Monthly mental health day
Choice of PC of MAC laptop
May choose an external monitor, keyboard, mouse, and/or headset
One-time office set-up stipend
Monthly remote work stipend
Monthly mobile stipend
Market-based salaries
Performance-based bonus
403(b) retirement plan
5% company contribution
additional 5% company match
3-year vesting schedule
Participation may begin immediately
Choice of two health insurance plans
Health Savings Account, depending on health plan selection
Medical Flexible Savings Account, depending on health plan selection
Vision insurance
Dental insurance
Insurance coverage begins on the date of hire
Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account
Maven virtual clinic for women’s and family health
Company provided life and ad&d insurance
Opportunity to purchase additional life insurance for self, spouse, and dependents
Company provided short and long-term disability insurance
Budgeted annual funds for professional development
Growth opportunities within the company
Mutual of Omaha Employee Assistance Program
Mutual of Omaha will preparation services
Mutual of Omaha travel assistance
Payroll dedication pet insurance through PinPaws
1Password family account