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Staff Writer

The New York City Council’s Community Engagement Division is seeking an individual with excellent reading and writing skills to join its Correspondence Unit. The Community Engagement Division acts as a liaison between the Speaker’s Office, the 51 Members of the City Council, and the diverse constituencies that make up New York City. The Division is comprised of four units: Correspondence, Community Outreach, Event & Production Services; and Administrative Affairs. The Correspondence Unit is primarily responsible for processing the large volume of mail received by the Speaker in their capacity as the leader of the New York City Council. The Unit is also responsible for drafting and sending out targeted email blasts; responding to constituent mail; drafting and sending out the Council’s quarterly newsletter; and writing/editing proclamations on behalf of the 51 Members of the City Council, including the Speaker.

SALARY RANGE:

$56,650 to $80,000

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Read and write short descriptions/summaries of the Speaker’s mail.
  • Write and edit constituent responses on behalf of the unit and/or the Speaker.
  • Write and edit proclamations on behalf of the 51 Members of the City Council, including the Speaker.
  • Write and edit journal letters, citations, and other correspondence (thank you notes, condolences, etc.) from the Speaker.
  • Write and edit sections for inclusion in the Council’s quarterly newsletter.
  • Lay out invitations, the quarterly newsletter, and other communications from the Speaker/City Council in the Unit’s database system for public dissemination.
  • Maintain constituent records and corresponding lists in IQ (Intranet Quorom).
  • Stay up to date on key priorities/initiatives being advanced by the Speaker and their colleagues.
  • Provide basic administrative/office support when needed (i.e. data entry, occasional event support, etc.).
  • Perform other duties, as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • A bachelor’s degree in English, creative writing, journalism, communications or relevant field is preferred, but not required. 
  • Previous experience as writer, freelancer or blogger.
  • Computer proficiency (MS Office, digital editing, web search and databases).
  • Excellent writing skills in English.
  • Ability to follow strict deadlines and fact-check information.
  • Good observation skills.
  • Capable of creative and analytical thinking.
  • Display initiative, determination and assertiveness.
  • Can function effectively working with a team as well as independently.
  • Capable of interacting with a broad range of individuals.
  • Knowledge of New York City, its diverse communities, and city government is a plus.  

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

New York City residency required within 90 days of appointment.

For eligible employees, health, dental and vision insurance coverage are offered upon hire. Retirement plans, deferred compensation plans, group life insurance, paid time off and paid holidays, training resources, health & fitness reimbursement and wellness programs are also available.

The New York City Council makes reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. If reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact EEOOfficer@council.nyc.gov.

HOW TO APPLY:

Qualified candidates should forward a cover letter, resume and writing sample to:

E-MAIL:         counciljobs@council.nyc.gov   

MAIL:             New York City Council

Attn: Personnel Services/Recruiting (SW)

250 Broadway, 26th Floor

New York, New York 10007

FAX:               12124014711

While we sincerely appreciate all applications, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

The New York City Council is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual’s sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.