Staff Writer

Founded in 1970, Cascade Bicycle Club is a 14,000+ member nonprofit organization based in Seattle, Washington, dedicated to creating better communities through bicycling. Cascade is a local, regional and statewide leader in advocating for bicycle policy and infrastructure, producing world-class cycling events, educating youth and adult cyclists and promoting bicycle commuting and offering riding opportunities for all. Cascade produces 13 major bicycle events and offers 1,300 free daily recreational rides annually.

Our sphere of influence includes environmental sustainability, health and fitness, youth development and livable communities. Cascade is directed by an elected volunteer board and operates with 28 paid staff and thousands of volunteers.

Position Overview:

The Staff Writer tells Cascade's stories in a clear, compelling way in order to generate affiliation, participation and support for the organization's mission, programs and activities. The Staff Writer's work will help expand Cascade's presence, deepen connections with members, participants, constituents, supporters and the general public and will enhance the organization's brand.

We are seeking a go-getter who thrives in a fast-paced environment, surrounded by colleagues who are passionate about Cascade's mission. Candidates should have an ear for stories and be motivated to use their writing talents to advance the mission and strategic goals. Candidates should find achievement in tracking down and writing great stories, be confident interviewing and asking questions, and be comfortable working independently once given direction and deadline.

In addition, the Staff Writer should enjoy writing in a diversity of styles, including marketing and ad copy, educational materials and member and constituent communications. The Staff Writer will work collaboratively across all departments to ensure clear, consistent communication. The Staff Writer will work with team leads to assess needs for written materials, prioritize based on strategic goals, and use writing skills efficiently with the goal of increasing presence and driving engagement.

The Staff Writer is part of the Communications, Marketing & Outreach team, and reports to the Director of Communications & Marketing.

Responsibilities:

Write in a range of styles to reach a variety of audiences through multiple communication channels.

Types of writing:

• E-news: bi-monthly club news, member news, program news, pre- and post-event messages
• Features and profiles: print newsletter, blog
• Informational: copy that describes program areas and current issues
• Media: press releases, media alerts, photo opps and press kits; story and lead generation for journalists.
• Development: annual appeals, cases for support, annual reports
• Events: talking points, MC notes, PowerPoint presentation copy, event program copy
• Creative: brochure copy, headline copy, ad copy, storyboards; keeping a quote file
• Some editing: Edit writing of colleagues, making recommendations for improvements

Department Role:

• Active member of the Communications, Marketing & Outreach team
• Represent Cascade in a professional manner when interacting with external audiences including club members, volunteers, board members, event participants, journalists, contractors and consultants, business representatives and more
• Promote activities through communication outlets (blog, social media, newsletter)
• Seek and gather success stories for promotional and development purposes
• Contribute to the budget process
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• Education: BA or equivalent in journalism, writing, communications or related degree.
• At least 3 years of relevant work experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge of AP style.
• Conscientious approach to setting and meeting deadlines is a requirement.
• Ability to write with different styles for multiple purposes to reach a variety of audiences.
• Excellent written and oral communications.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Excellent organizational skills including ability to manage multiple projects and work accurately under deadline.
• Strong Microsoft Office skills.
• Comfortable with fast-paced environment and deadlines.
• Team player with the ability to work independently.
• Familiarity with nonprofit structure helpful.

Compensation: Full time salary position. 6 month probationary performance review with annual review thereafter on or about hire date. Some evening and weekend work may be required. Monetary compensation commensurate with qualifications and experience. Benefits package.

Application Deadline: Friday, April 20 at 5 p.m.

To Apply:

Please send a resume and 3 of your finest writing samples with a cover letter stating why you should be considered for the position. PDF submissions preferred. No phone calls. Subject line: STAFF WRITER

Cascade Bicycle Club
Attn: Staff Writer position
7400 Sand Point Way NE, Suite 101S
Seattle, WA 98115-8170