Speechwriter

Executive Division

Press Office – New York City

Speechwriter

Reference No:  EXEC/PO _SW_NYC_6349

Application Deadline: December 20, 2024

Apply by clicking here 

The Press Office in the Executive Division of the Office of the New York State Attorney General (OAG) is seeking an experienced and talented Speechwriter to join the Attorney General’s communications team. The Speechwriter will work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment with OAG bureau chiefs, press officers, and senior staff to synthesize detailed information on the work of the office into clear, effective, and compelling speeches, op-eds, scripts, and talking points that are geared to a variety of audiences.

In addition, the Speechwriter will prepare briefing and other media materials for the Attorney General. While speeches are edited in close collaboration with the Attorney General, the Speechwriter will also work closely with other communications staff to plan and execute speaking events that advance the Attorney General’s broader communications/messaging strategy. This position will be based in New York City and reports to the Director of Communications.

Qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree is preferred.
• A minimum of five (5) years of relevant, professional work experience in a writing-intensive field such as speechwriting, editorial writing, or government press. However, well-qualified applicants with fewer years of experience will be considered.
• Prior experience in any of the following is strongly preferred:
• Speechwriting;
• Advising local, state, or federal elected officials on communications/messaging strategy; and/or
• Experience working in New York state/New York City government or politics.
• Demonstrated ability to capture the principal’s voice in writing while also driving the broader communications/messaging strategy.
• Excellent writing, presentation, research, and verbal communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex information clearly and accessibly for diverse audiences.
• Sound judgement, including the ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with discretion.
• Collaborative and open-minded, with a willingness to receive and incorporate feedback and other edits to improve and strengthen final deliverables.
• Proactive with the ability to self-manage multiple projects and competing priorities while also meeting tight deadlines.

The annual salary for this position is $114,824 + $3,400 in location pay. As an employee of OAG, you will join a team of dedicated individuals who work to serve the people of our state through a wide variety of occupations. We offer a comprehensive New York state benefits package, including paid leave, health, dental, vision, and retirement benefits, and family-friendly policies. Additionally, OAG offers a robust Workplace Flexibilities Program with multiple options for employees, including telecommuting (up to two days per week) and alternative work schedules.

Candidates from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. The OAG is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to workplace diversity.

HOW TO APPLY

Applications must be submitted online. To apply, click here. Applicants must be prepared to submit a complete application consisting of the following:

• Cover Letter: You may address your letter to the Legal Recruitment Unit. Indicate why you are interested in this position and what makes you a strong candidate. You may wish to include information about what life experiences you will bring to the position that will enhance OAG’s ability to better serve the diverse population of this state.
• Resume
• Writing Sample: Provide a portfolio with three to six (3-6) samples that you feel best demonstrate your writing abilities. Provide samples that are directly relevant to this position such as speeches (of varying lengths), op-eds, scripts, talking points, etc. Please include a cover page that provides general information about each sample and a brief explanation of why you chose to submit it as part of your application.
• List of three (3) references: Only submit professional references, supervisory references are preferred. For each reference, indicate the nature and duration of your relationship. Include contact information and email addresses for each reference. Please note that your references will not be contacted until after you interview for the position.