Freelance Copy Editing Jobs in Park Ridge, IL (NOW HIRING)

WFMT, Chicago's classical music radio station, is seeking a creative, deadline-driven Digital Writer/Editor to lead the creation and distribution of digital content across WFMT.com and associated social and digital platforms. The ideal candidate will craft compelling multimedia stories and features - with a strong focus on text and imagery - aligned with WFMT's editorial strategy and designed to grow and engage audiences. This professional will bring to bear exceptional storytelling abilities, a passion for classical and related music genres, and a keen understanding of digital content creation, audience engagement, and analytics.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

         Develop, pitch, write and produce original feature content related to WFMT programming, classical music, the arts in Chicago, and related public interest stories.

         Employ a range of storytelling formats with a focus on text and image, but to also sometimes include video or audio to create engaging content and grow audience.

         Oversee the full production cycle from concept to publication: writing, editing, multimedia production, and publishing using an online content management system.

         Write effective headlines, teasers, and display copy to maximize engagement.

         Strategically create and extend produced content for/to WFMT's social media platforms to increase reach, drive traffic to WFMT.com, and support audience growth initiatives.

         Assign and edit additional stories from other staff, interns, and freelance contributors to ensure high editorial standards, accuracy, and alignment with WFMT's voice and mission.

         Maintain and update digital content across WFMT digital and social platforms, ensuring consistency with design and style guidelines.

         Use analytics tools to track content performance and inform editorial strategy.

         Ensure rights and permissions are secured for all content and media assets.

         Research, report, and fact-check all content according to WFMT editorial standards and guidelines.

         Stay current with evolving digital tools and workflows, and recommend improvements where appropriate.

         Supervise interns and support staff as assigned.

         Perform other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS REQUIRED:

         Strong writing, editing, and communication skills

         Proven experience in multimedia content production (text, image, audio, video)

         Self-starter and demonstrated ability to meet daily deadlines

         Experience with online publishing and content management systems; familiarity with HTML and basic web development concepts

         Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Audition; Premiere a plus)

         Data-informed mindset; experience with content analytics and reporting

         Understanding of journalistic standards and ethics

         Collaborative, flexible team player with project management skills

         Deep interest in classical music and digital storytelling

EXPERIENCE:  3+ years in a writing, journalism or content creation role.

MINIMUM EDUCATION:  Bachelor's or Master's Degree in digital storytelling or related field preferred.

ESTIMATED SALARY RANGE: starting at $57,000 - $65,000/annual

WTTW and WFMT are committed to providing comprehensive and affordable benefits. These benefits are available to eligible employees.

Window to the World Communications, Inc., the parent organization of WTTW and WFMT, is an Equal Opportunity Employer.