Writer

Island Press is looking for a professional writer who can effectively communicate science, policy and economics to a wide range of audiences. Island Press works primarily in 5 areas: energy and climate; oceans and water; ecosystems; policy, law and economics; and the built environment. 

Founded in 1984, we work with leading scientists and practitioners to provide the best ideas and information in the field to those seeking to understand and protect the environment and create solutions to its complex problems.  We accomplish this by publishing information in print, in person and online through books, events, briefings, blogs, webinars, and other types of interaction. 
Through our work we connect science with policymakers and practitioners, enabling them to make informed decisions.

Responsibilities:

The writer will be part of the organization's development department, but support the entire organization as needed.   The principal activity of the writer is to draft proposals to solicit financial support from individuals and foundations and to draft reports on how the funds were used to advance Island Press's mission. The full range of activities may include:

• Fundraising & Communications: institutional communications, such as the annual report; grant proposals and reports; and other fundraising materials.
• Book Promotion: press releases, pitch letters, and other promotional materials.
• Online Content: including news, newsletters, "newsroom", book web sites, blogs, and other web content.
• Other content as needed.

Qualifications:

• Understand and be motivated by environmental issues and the opportunity to create exciting content that will stand out.
• Superlative writing ability.
• 3 to 5 years of experience writing about science issues, preferably with an environmental focus.
• Ability to collaborate with staff and advisors to understand science ideas, develop key messages, and communicate those ideas and messages to diverse audiences.
• Bachelor's degree.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word.

Compensation:

• Salary commensurate with experience.
• Casual dress code
• Limited flexible scheduling
• A range of medical plans through Carefirst Blue Cross/Blue Shield - employee contribution is based on salary range and plan and ranges from 100% employer coverage to $146.23 per month for employee-only coverage
• Dental insurance through Metlife - 100% employer-paid, employee-only
• Life insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment insurance through Metlife - 100% employer-paid
• Short and Long-term Disability coverage through Metlife - 100% employer-paid
• Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care expenses
• 403(b) retirement plan through TIAA-CREF
• Metro/transit expenses on pre-tax dollars
• Leave: 
  • Vacation - 10 days year one, 12 year two, 15 year three, 17 year four, 20 year five and beyond 
  • Sick - 12 days per year 
  • Holidays - 7 paid holidays and 4 paid days between Christmas and New Year's Day
  • Personal - 2 days per year
• Employee discount of 50% on all Island Press titles

To Apply:

To apply, please send cover letter, resume and writing sample by email with a subject of Island Press Writer, or you can mail your application materials to Attn: HR/Writer, Island Press, 1718 Connecticut Ave. NW #300, Washington, DC 20009. No calls.

Island Press is a 501c3 certified not-for-profit organization. As an equal opportunity employer, Island Press is dedicated to nondiscrimination in every aspect of employment.