Position Summary:
The Storytelling Writer/Editor & Content Strategist is responsible for researching, interviewing, writing, editing, and publishing compelling stories that communicate the mission and impact of Lutheran Church Charities. This is a writing-focused, journalism-centered position that emphasizes reporting, feature writing, human-interest stories, and mission-based communications.
Serving as LCC's brand journalist, this individual identifies meaningful stories, conducts interviews, gathers supporting multimedia content, and develops engaging editorial content that builds awareness, trust, and engagement across LCC's print, digital, social media, audio, and donor communications channels.
The position works closely with the Director of Communications to maintain clarity, consistency, effectiveness, and brand standards across all published content. The role also assists in editing and managing content submitted by freelancers and volunteers and collaborates with the Communications Team and ministry leaders to support strategic communications initiatives and campaigns.
This is an on-site position based at Lutheran Church Charities' headquarters in Northbrook, Illinois.
Application Materials Required: Resume/Curriculum Vitae, Interest Letter, Creative Portfolio or Work Samples
Essential Duties/Responsibilities:
- Uses traditional journalism skills—reporting, interviewing, and research—to produce articles and digital content, maintaining a high standard of editorial integrity and accuracy.
- Writes and edits communication content for affiliate churches, volunteers, and donor audiences, as assigned.
- Commitment to aligning content with the mission and values of Lutheran Church Charities
- Attention to detail and excellent Editing capabilities
- Collaborates with Communications Team and freelancers to create or contribute to multimedia content, including short-form and medium-length videos, photo essays, blog posts, social media posts, webinars, thought leadership, and podcast.
- Works with Director of Communications to use department content calendar to plan editorial strategy and align stories with strategic initiatives. Consults ministry area directors to identify content.
- Manages digital platforms to post and update content, track analytics, and maximize audience reach.
- Experience in developing and executing effective Content Strategy
- Strong Research skills to create content that is accurate and engaging
- Familiarity with nonprofit organizations or ministry-based work is an advantage
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in journalism, marketing, strategic communication, or related field.
- 2+ years of experience as a reporter, writer/editor, or content producer.
- Dynamic portfolio showing writing, graphic design, and strategic content creation.
- Content production computer knowledge and skills (Microsoft Office Suite, WordPress, Canva, Adobe Creative Suite)
- Familiar with Associated Press style guidelines
- Maintains a courteous, Christ-like attitude in dealing with people within and outside of LCC; demonstrates behaviors aligned with the values and mission of Lutheran Church Charities
Desired Background and Experience
A background in journalism, communications, marketing, or public relations. Experience in digital marketing, storytelling, or organizational communications.
Required Skills
- Writing & Editing: Ability to craft engaging, accurate stories while maintaining journalistic integrity.
- Interviewing Skills: Ability to build relationships and gather information from diverse sources.
- Digital Proficiency: Understanding of SEO, social media, digital platform, graphic design programs, and Content Management Systems.
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to identify "stories" within an organization that connect with the audience and reinforce ministry brand voice.
- Adaptability: Ability to work on tight deadlines and across various formats.
Company Description
Lutheran Church Charities (LCC), founded in 1947, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit ministry dedicated to supporting Christian human care ministries of the Church. Located in Northbrook, Illinois, LCC serves both domestically and internationally, bringing the mercy, compassion, presence, and proclamation of Jesus Christ to people in need. As a Recognized Service Organization of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod, LCC collaborates closely with churches to fulfill its mission. The organization operates on a transparent "Dollar In – Dollar Out" funding model, ensuring all donations go directly toward their intended causes.
Pay: $45,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
