Working Title: CISE Feature Writer - IE

State Role Title: Institutional Employment / Federal Work Study

Position Type: Institutional Employment

Position Status: Part-Time

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt: Eligible for Overtime

College/Division: College of Integrated Science and Engineering

Department: 100653 - Dean - CISE

Pay Rate: Hourly

Specify Range or Amount: $13.00

Is this a JMU only position? N/A

Is this a grant-funded position? No

Is this a Conflict of Interest designated position? N/A

Beginning Review Date: 08/29/2025

About JMU:

Located in the heart of Virginia’s beautiful Shenandoah Valley, the city of Harrisonburg is approximately 120 miles from Washington, D.C. and Richmond, VA. With a population of just over 53,000, Harrisonburg is one of the most diverse communities in the Commonwealth of Virginia. JMU is a selective, public institution with a growing national reputation for offering experiences that lead to an outstanding education and inclusive environment for students, faculty and staff. The student body includes approximately 20,000 undergraduate and 1,900 graduate students, with over 1,000 full-time instructional faculty.

General Information:

The College of Integrated Science and Engineering (CISE) seeks a skilled and enthusiastic student writer to contribute to its communications efforts for the 2025-26 academic year.

This position plays a vital role in creating engaging and informative content that promotes CISE and its programs, highlights student and faculty achievements, and showcases innovative research and projects within the college. This opportunity offers valuable experience in writing and content creation, providing practical experience in a professional setting and the opportunity to build a professional portfolio.

Hours:
Approximately 7-10 hours per week with flexible scheduling. Some evenings and weekends are required to cover events.

*This employment opportunity is compatible with the internship expectations of the JMU WRTC major.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Produce original, high-quality written content, including feature articles, press releases, and marketing materials aligned with the CISE communication strategy.
• Research relevant topics, interview faculty, students, and alumni, and gather information to support content creation.
• Ensure accuracy, clarity, and consistency in all written materials through thorough editing and proofreading.
• Adhere to the James Madison University (JMU) branding guide to ensure consistency in tone, style, and messaging across all written content.
• Work closely with the CISE marketing and communications team, faculty, and staff to brainstorm ideas, develop content plans, and coordinate content creation efforts.
• Effectively manage time and meet content creation and publication deadlines.
• Utilize a project management system to ensure efficient workflow.

Qualifications:

• Strong writing skills with the ability to craft engaging and informative content
• Interest in science, technology, and engineering is a plus
• Attention to detail and a commitment to producing accurate and error-free content
• Excellent research and interviewing skills
• Strong work ethic, professionalism, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Excellent time management and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Self-starter with excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Additional Posting Information:

Please submit a resume, cover letter, references, and three writing samples.
Please email the writing samples to * cisemarketing@jmu.edu * with the subject line: Student Writer Application. - Applications must have writing examples to be considered.

Conditions of Employment:  

Students must be degree-seeking students, enrolled on at least a half-time basis (6 credits for undergraduate and 5 credits for graduate).

E-Verify Notice: After accepting employment, new hires are required to complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. James Madison University uses the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.

EEO Statement:

James Madison University is committed to creating and supporting a diverse and inclusive work and educational community that is free of all forms of discrimination. This institution does not tolerate discrimination or harassment on the basis of age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, national origin, parental status, political affiliation, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or veteran status.

We promote access, inclusion and diversity for all students, faculty, staff, constituents and programs, believing that these qualities are foundational components of an outstanding education in keeping with our mission. The university is interested in candidates whose experience and qualifications support an ongoing commitment to this core quality.

Anyone having questions concerning discrimination should contact the Office for Equal Opportunity: (540) 568-6991.

Reasonable Accommodation:

If you are a student with a disability and need assistance please contact the Office of Disability Services at (540) 568-6705 or disability-svcs@jmu.edu. You may also visit the Office of Disability Services, located in the Student Success Center, Suite 1202 and they will be happy to assist you.