Writer (Hybrid)

The University of California, Merced is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience. The salary the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $76,000/yr.

Initial applicant review will begin on or around May 21, 2025. Posting will remain open until filled.

Remote/Hybrid eligibility: This position offers a hybrid work schedule.

The University of California, Merced, is the newest of the University of California system's 10 campuses and one of the youngest universities to be designated an R1 research university. With approximately 9,100 undergraduate and graduate students, UC Merced is a smaller, more intimate campus compared to its sister campuses, while equipped and staffed as a cutting edge, 21st century research institution. With bachelor's, master's and doctoral degree programs, strong research and academic partnerships and a growing community in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley, the UC Merced campus is continually evolving and requires talented, knowledgeable and dynamic educators, researchers, management and staff.

Ranked in the top 30 among the best public universities in the nation by U.S. News and World Report and #1 for social mobility by the Wall Street Journal, UC Merced is uniquely equipped to provide world class educational opportunities to dynamic and enterprising students in the Valley and throughout the state. In partnership with UC San Francisco, UC Merced has launched a rigorous medical education program that will supply the Valley with culturally competent providers dedicated to improving local access to quality care. The campus enjoys a special connection with nearby Yosemite National Park, is on the cutting edge of sustainability in construction and design and is accelerating the continued economic development of the region.

Reporting to the Director of Enrollment Management Communications, the Admissions Writer writes or edits a variety of comprehensive and difficult material for stylistic consistency, logic, organization, rational development of content, and emphasis. Researches, selects sources for information and content, and ensures accuracy of written pieces. Recommends content and layout, edit, and coordinate production of a variety of printed and online material, or conversion of printed pieces to online formats and archives.

Responsible for assisting in admission communications on admissions policy and outreach, as well as admit and antimelt materials. The staff members will develop an excellent familiarity with various media and determine the most effective media to satisfy the needed outcome. The incumbent will write and develop the publications for student recruitment and admissions throughout the enrollment funnel. The staff member will have excellent project management skills required to manage multiple projects.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Support enrollment-focused communications across the full recruitment funnel by creating compelling, audience-specific content for diverse populations (first year, transfer, international, and first-gen and other specific audiences), while crafting persuasive copy for multi-channel recruitment campaigns that effectively moves prospects through inquiry, application, admission, and yield stages.
• Serve as the primary communication partner and writer for all enrollment management departments outside of Admissions (Financial Aid, Registrar, Students First Center, OIA) by transforming complex policies into student-friendly content, maintaining consistent communication templates, and providing rapid response for urgent communication needs while ensuring all messaging aligns with institutional goals and brand standards.
• Support digital content strategy and creation for enrollment initiatives by writing and optimizing web content and crafting conversion-focused content that drives prospective student engagement across all digital platforms while supporting recruitment objectives.
• Establish and maintain comprehensive EM communication standards and processes by documenting workflows, creating a centralized content repository for all EM units, ensuring brand consistency, and regularly reviewing and updating materials while serving as the primary resource for enrollment communication best practices and quality control.

EDUCATION and REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in related area from an accredited institution.
• Three years of experience in related field.

CRITICAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Ability to prioritize communications activities for maxim impact.
• Ability to coordinate efforts of various teams in order to present a coherent message.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet close deadlines.
• Proven ability to be innovative and creative. Preferred
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision. Preferred
• Ability to manage multiple projects, relationships, and deadlines in a dynamic environment. Preferred
• Strong interpersonal skills that enable relationship building. Preferred
• Knowledge of marketing principles, such as web advertising, performance, and direct response marketing.
• Demonstrable experience in crafting communications in the higher ed sector for undergraduate recruitment.
• Familiarity with writing for the web (SEO).
• Familiarity with data analysis and KPIs for campaign success.
• Thorough knowledge of the recruitment cycle.

Background check required.

How to Apply:
An online application is required for each position to apply.The University of California, Merced is aware that some web-based application processes may be cumbersome for differently abled applicants. Where appropriate, alternative accommodations will be provided. For applicants with disabilities who need additional assistance using TAM, or reasonable accommodations during the interview or search process, please contact ucmjobs@ucmerced.edu.

As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.

Equal Employment Opportunity:
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories covered by the UC Anti-Discrimination Policy.

It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.

Smoke and Tobacco Free Policy:
The University of California, Merced is a smoke and tobacco free workplace. Information and the Smoke and Tobacco Free policy is available at http://smokefree.ucmerced.edu.

E-Verify:
All employers who receive Federal contracts and grants are required to comply with E-Verify, an Internet-based system operated by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in partnership with the Social Security Administration (SSA). E-Verify electronically verifies employment eligibility by comparing information provided on the I-9 form to records in the DHS and SSA databases. Certain positions funded by federal contracts/subcontracts requires UC Merced to notify job applicants that an E-Verify check will be conducted and the successful candidate must pass the E-Verify check.

Pay, Benefits & Work Schedule:
For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University of California visit: http://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/

This position is eligible for the UC Merced Employee Referral Program (ERP). If you were referred by a UC Merced employee, please identify that employee by name in your application as follows:

Step 5 of 7 Referrals

How did you hear about the job? (select) "other"

Additional information? (select) "other"

Specific Referral Source? (write in) first and last name of referring employee

Referring employee MUST be named on application for eligibility.