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Development Writer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

NorthShore

Philanthropy Writer

Evanston, IL · On-site

$30.46 - $45.69/hr

Philanthropy Writer Reporting to the Director of Philanthropy Communications and Donor Relations ... Gift Proposal and Case Development: Lead the end-to-end project management and creation of major ...

VSA Partners

Senior Writer

Chicago, IL

Role Overview The Senior Writer is responsible for developing relevant, memorable and highly ... Collaborate in the development and definition of the "voice" for a client, a program or individual ...

Meineke - 2275

Service Writer

South Elgin, IL · On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Training and Development * Comprehensive Benefits Package * Employee Discounts * Positive Work ... At least two years of experience as an automotive service writer or service advisor is required.

Abbott Laboratories

Technical Writer

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$61 - $123/hr

Career development with an international company where you can grow the career you dream of ... The Technical Writer will prepare technical documents in the forms of service manuals, instrument ...

VSA Partners

Senior Writer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Role Overview The Senior Writer is responsible for developing relevant, memorable and highly ... Collaborate in the development and definition of the "voice" for a client, a program or individual ...

Endeavor Health

Philanthropy Writer

Warrenville, IL

$30.46 - $45.69/hr

Philanthropy Writer Reporting to the Director of Philanthropy Communications and Donor Relations ... Gift Proposal and Case Development: Lead theend-to-end project management and creationof major gift ...

Aegis Worldwide

Technical Writer

Hammond, IN · On-site

$32 - $36/hr

Candidates with backgrounds in technical writing, document control, quality documentation, SOP development, or manufacturing documentation are encouraged to apply. Contract Details * Duration:

Abbott

Technical Writer

Des Plaines, IL

$61K - $122K/yr

Career development with an international company where you can grow the career you dream of ... The Technical Writer will prepare technical documents in the forms of service manuals, instrument ...

Abbott

Technical Writer

Des Plaines, IL

$61K - $122K/yr

Career development with an international company where you can grow the career you dream of ... The Technical Writer will prepare technical documents in the forms of service manuals, instrument ...

Meineke - 2275

Service Writer

South Elgin, IL · On-site

... Training and Development Comprehensive Benefits Package Employee Discounts Positive Work ... writer capabilities, previous service management experience. Every day is different in our busy ...

writer.com

Solutions architect (Central)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Lead the development and execution of compelling proofs of concept (PoCs) and demonstrations, building custom templates and integrating WRITER's capabilities to showcase transformative value and ...

Abbott

Technical Writer

Des Plaines, IL · On-site

$61K - $122K/yr

Career development with an international company where you can grow the career you dream of ... The Technical Writer will prepare technical documents in the forms of service manuals, instrument ...

Meineke

Service Writer

South Elgin, IL · On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Training and Development * Comprehensive Benefits Package * Employee Discounts * Positive Work ... At least two years of experience as an automotive service writer or service advisor is required.

Endeavor-Health

Philanthropy Writer

Evanston, IL · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Gift Proposal and Case Development: Lead the end-to-end project management and creation of major ... Lead the project management, writing, and creation of multi-channel annual giving appeals and mid ...

Cengage Learning, Inc.

Proposal Writer

Chicago, IL · On-site

Generate detailed response plans, schedules, and technical elements in the development of proposals ... BA/BS in writing, communications, marketing, or related field. * Ability to serve as team mentor to ...

Frontage Laboratories

Report Writer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$21.63 - $25.97/hr

Report Writer Title: Report Writer Location: Chicago, IL, onsite Reports to: Technical Report ... development, and core laboratory services for clinical trials. Our Chicago, IL site provides ...

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All JobsDevelopment Writer JobsDevelopment Writer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Development Writer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$48.4K

$69.6K

$91.2K

How much do development writer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for development writer in Chicago, IL is $69,641.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,700.00 and $80,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a development writer?

Development Writers are professionals who create persuasive written materials to support fundraising efforts for nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and other entities. They craft grant proposals, donor communications, case statements, and other documents that help secure funding from individuals, foundations, and corporations. Development Writers work closely with fundraising teams and subject matter experts to clearly communicate an organization's mission, programs, and funding needs. Their writing is tailored to inspire potential donors and build lasting relationships. This role requires strong writing, research, and storytelling skills.

What does a development writer do?

A development writer is a liaison between a non-profit organization or foundation and the general public, including potential donors. In this career, your duties are to research prospects and draft written materials to help stakeholders understand the mission and goals of a non-profit. You also write and edit speeches to be delivered to the public. Your responsibilities also include overseeing advertising and promotions to make sure they align with the company’s policies and brand. As a development writer, you also participate in fundraising events by crafting informative communication to both increase the reach of the organization's efforts and solicit increased donations from donors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a development writer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Development Writer, you need strong writing, research, and storytelling skills, often supported by a background in communications, journalism, or English. Familiarity with donor management systems, fundraising platforms, and proficiency in Microsoft Office or Google Workspace is typically required. Excellent interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to tailor messages for diverse audiences help set outstanding candidates apart. These capabilities are crucial for crafting compelling fundraising materials that engage donors and support organizational growth.

How does a development writer typically collaborate with fundraising and program teams?

Development Writers work closely with fundraising teams to craft compelling grant proposals, donor communications, and case statements that align with organizational goals. They often meet with program staff to gather impact stories, data, and updates, ensuring that all written materials accurately reflect the organization's work and needs. This collaboration helps create persuasive content that resonates with funders and stakeholders, and also keeps messaging consistent across departments. Regular communication and feedback loops are key to producing effective fundraising materials.

What is the difference between Development Writer vs Content Writer?

AspectDevelopment WriterContent Writer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in English, Communications, or related fieldsOften requires similar credentials, but may accept diverse backgrounds
Work EnvironmentWorks in corporate, nonprofit, or grant-funded settings, focusing on proposals and reportsWorks across digital platforms, blogs, social media, and marketing content
Industry UsageCommon in nonprofits, government agencies, and educational institutionsPrevalent in marketing, media, and advertising industries
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for writing scope and purposeCompared for style and audience engagement

Development Writers focus on creating proposals, grants, and reports to support organizational goals, often working in formal settings. Content Writers produce engaging digital content aimed at marketing and audience interaction. While both roles require strong writing skills and similar credentials, their work environments and objectives differ significantly.

More about Development Writer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Development Writer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Development Writer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

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For Development Writer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Development Writer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Development Writer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Development Writer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,641 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Philanthropy Writer

NorthShore

Evanston, IL • On-site

$30.46 - $45.69/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Endeavor Health rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 402 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

420th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Hourly Pay Range:
$30.46 - $45.69 - The hourly pay rate offered is determined by a candidate's expertise and years of experience, among other factors.
Philanthropy Writer
Reporting to the Director of Philanthropy Communications and Donor Relations, the Philanthropy Writer is a strategic messaging partner who crafts compelling narratives to inspire giving across the entire donor cycle. This role translates complex clinical priorities into sophisticated donor investment opportunities for major and principal gift proposals and philanthropic cases for support, while also crafting customized, compelling narratives that inspire and grow Endeavor Health's base of annual and mid-level donors for each of its five hospital foundations. They serve as a bridge between clinical leadership and the donor, ensuring that every proposal and impact report is not only technically accurate but emotionally and philanthropically persuasive.
The ideal candidate is an outstanding writer and editor who understands philanthropy and donor motivations as well as a proactive and collaborative partner who independently manages writing projects from conception to completion. The ideal candidate combines high-level editorial skill with the ability to develop and execute project plans, manage deadlines, and build strong internal partnerships in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
Position Highlights:
  • Position: Philanthropy Writer
  • Location: Evanston or Warrenville, IL
  • Full Time/Part Time: Full Time (40 hours)
  • Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
  • Required Travel: travel to other Endeavor Health locations may be required

What you will do:
  • Gift Proposal and Case Development: Lead the end-to-end project management and creation of major gift and principal gift proposals and cases for support. This includes developing project plans, interviewing physicians and executive leaders, synthesizing complex medical or operational data, and crafting a visionary 'pitch' that aligns with donor motivations, collaborating closely with the system's fundraisers across Endeavor's five foundations
  • Annual and Mid-Level Giving Communications: Lead the project management, writing, and creation of multi-channel annual giving appeals and mid-level proposals, often in collaboration with outside vendors. Develop and execute a comprehensive communications plan to acquire, retain, and upgrade donors across Endeavor Health's five foundations.
  • Post-Gift Impact Reporting and Stewardship: In partnership with the Philanthropy Communications team and with Donor Relations and the frontline fundraisers, translate the success of funded proposals into high-level impact reports. Ensure that donors who give to specific initiatives receive customized, substantive updates that demonstrate the direct power of their investment.
  • Strategic Narrative and Messaging Counsel: Provide editorial leadership on system-wide fundraising priorities. Partner with frontline fundraisers to write and "package" new programs or clinical trials into donor-ready concepts before a formal proposal is presented.
  • Visual Communications and Design: Manage the visual production of proposals and other communications materials. Independently create and adapt designs using tools like Canva and approved corporate templates to produce visually compelling and brand-aligned collateral in collaboration with the Philanthropy Communications team.
  • Clinical Liaison and Governance: Navigate the internal approval process, working with the CDO and AVP of Philanthropy Operations to shepherd proposals through the Gift Policy Committee. Ensure all narratives align with the health system's strategic clinical roadmap.
  • Knowledge Management and Brand Standards: Maintain a central repository of approved boilerplate language for clinical programs and system facts. Ensure all high-level collateral meets Endeavor Health's editorial and brand standards of the organization.

What you will need:
  • Education: Bachelor's degree in Journalism, Communications, English, or related field preferred.
  • Certification: n/a
  • Experience: 5+ years of experience in nonprofit development/advancement (with experience in a healthcare-related organization preferred)
  • Unique or Preferred Skills:
    • Knowledge of AP Style and experience working within corporate brand guidelines
    • Demonstrated ability to meet required project deadlines while concurrently managing multiple projects
    • Experience in writing and managing multi-channel direct marketing or annual giving appeals (e.g., direct mail, email)
    • Proficiency with basic graphic design principles and tools (e.g., Canva) is preferred. Must be flexible and adaptable to changing priorities and proactively address challenges in a fast-paced, emerging and dynamic environment with ongoing deadlines.
    • Proficiency with MS Office and proactively working with Salesforce or similar CRM is strongly preferred.
    • Tech-savvy and avid learner with a keen interest in fundraising, nonprofit trends, data, and a strategic openness to use AI to develop communications content for efficiency and consistency.
    • Strong written, verbal, organizational, and interpersonal and communication skills.
    • Demonstrated ability to relate and interact warmly and professionally with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including system leadership, cross-departmental partners, vendors, prospects and discerning donors.
    • Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information appropriately and with discretion.
    • Excels in project management: multi-tasking, goal setting, accountability, attention to detail and workload prioritization including experience managing relationships with outside vendors.
    • Experience with project management tools and techniques is required.
    • Ability to constructively accept and process feedback and a collaborative working style.
    • Continuously seek ways to improve processes, increase efficiencies and actively pursue professional development opportunities.

Benefits (For full time or part time positions):
  • Opportunity for annual increases based on performance
  • Career Pathways to Promote Professional Growth and Development
  • Various Medical, Dental, Pet and Vision options
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Free Parking
  • Wellness Program Savings Plan
  • Health Savings Account Options
  • Retirement Options with Company Match
  • Paid Time Off and Holiday Pay
  • Community Involvement Opportunities

Endeavor Health is a fully integrated healthcare delivery system committed to providing access to quality, vibrant, community-connected care, serving an area of more than 4.2 million residents across six northeast Illinois counties. Our more than 25,000 team members and more than 6,000 physicians aim to deliver transformative patient experiences and expert care close to home across more than 300 ambulatory locations and eight acute care hospitals - Edward (Naperville), Elmhurst, Evanston, Glenbrook (Glenview), Highland Park, Northwest Community (Arlington Heights) Skokie and Swedish (Chicago) - all recognized as Magnet hospitals for nursing excellence. For more information, visit www.endeavorhealth.org.
When you work for Endeavor Health, you will be part of an organization that encourages its employees to achieve career goals and maximize their professional potential.
Please explore our website (www.endeavorhealth.org) to better understand how Endeavor Health delivers on its mission to "help everyone in our communities be their best".
Endeavor Health is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. Please refer to the main career page for more information.
At Endeavor Health, we are united by a shared commitment to working together to create a culture of connection and belonging-each of us bringing different skills and experiences as we deliver safe, seamless, and personal care. Every person, every time. We are committed to fostering an environment where all team members can be their best, learn, and pursue excellence together.
EOE: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/ Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets, VEVRRA Federal Contractor.

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