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Freelance Magazine Writing Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Freelance Magazine Writing information

See Indiana salary details

$7

$22

$31

How much do freelance magazine writing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance magazine writing in Indiana is $22.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.42 and $24.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is freelance magazine writing?

Freelance magazine writing involves creating articles, features, or other types of content for magazines on a contract or per-assignment basis, rather than being a full-time staff writer. Freelance writers pitch story ideas to magazine editors or respond to calls for submissions, and if accepted, they research and write the piece according to the publication's guidelines. This role offers flexibility and the opportunity to write on a variety of topics for different publications, but it also requires self-motivation, strong writing skills, and persistence in finding and securing assignments.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a freelance magazine writer?

To thrive as a Freelance Magazine Writer, you need excellent writing, research, and editing skills, often supported by a degree in journalism, English, or communications. Familiarity with content management systems (CMS), SEO tools, and digital publishing platforms is highly beneficial. Strong time management, adaptability, and the ability to pitch creative ideas help set standout writers apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for consistently producing engaging, high-quality content that meets editorial standards and deadlines.

How do freelance magazine writers typically pitch story ideas and build relationships with editors?

Freelance magazine writers often start by researching publications to understand their style and audience, then craft concise, compelling pitch emails tailored to each editor’s interests. Building relationships involves timely communication, delivering high-quality work, and being receptive to feedback. Over time, successful freelancers may become go-to contributors, gaining access to more assignments and even regular columns. Networking at industry events and maintaining a professional online presence can also help writers expand their connections and secure ongoing opportunities.

What is the difference between Freelance Magazine Writing vs Freelance Content Writing?

AspectFreelance Magazine WritingFreelance Content Writing
CredentialsPortfolio, writing samples, possibly journalism or editorial experiencePortfolio, writing samples, SEO knowledge often preferred
Work EnvironmentTypically independent, project-based, deadlines set by magazinesOften remote, client-driven, with varied topics and formats
Employer & Industry UsageMagazines, editorial publications, journalism industryBusinesses, websites, marketing agencies, digital media

Freelance Magazine Writing focuses on producing articles for magazines and editorial outlets, often requiring journalistic skills and editorial standards. Freelance Content Writing covers a broader range of digital content for clients, emphasizing SEO and marketing. Both roles are flexible and project-based but serve different industry needs and audiences.

What are the most commonly searched types of Magazine Writing jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Magazine Writing jobs in Indiana are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Magazine Writing jobs in Indiana?

For Freelance Magazine Writing jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Magazine Writing jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Magazine Writing jobs in Indiana are:

Infographic showing various Freelance Magazine Writing job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,067 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Brand Content Director

Indianapolis, IN

Butler University
501 - 1,000 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Butler University rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Position Overview

The Brand Content Director is a strategic storyteller responsible for bringing Butler University's brand to life through compelling narratives, consistent voice, and high-impact social and multimedia content. This leader shapes how Butler shows up across University-owned channels to strengthen national awareness, advance enrollment goals, and showcase the transformational impact of a Butler education. The Director oversees the University's brand content ecosystem- including long-form storytelling platforms such as the Butler Magazine and stories.butler.edu, as well as digital content, social media, and video-while leading the brand content team. The ideal candidate blends creative vision, strategic leadership, and strong campus partnerships to deliver content that advances Butler's institutional priorities.

Responsibilities 

  • Lead Butler's brand content strategy across University-owned digital, print, social, and video channels-including flagship storytelling platforms such as the Butler Magazine and stories.butler.edu-to strengthen national visibility and advance key institutional priorities, including enrollment and reputational goals.
  • Serve as the University's lead steward of brand voice and storytelling, maintaining and evolving editorial guidelines, messaging frameworks, and content standards to ensure consistency authenticity across all platforms.
  • Oversee Butler's editorial and content planning ecosystem, including editorial calendars, message maps, channel planning, content prioritization, and coordinated cross-campus storytelling efforts, aligning output with enrollment, advancement, and brand initiatives.
  • Supervise and develop a high-performing content team, including social media staff, videographer, and external freelance or agency partners, providing creative direction, coaching, workflow oversight, and performance management.
  • Develop and manage an enterprise-wide social media strategy, establishing standards, governance, and guidance that ensures content across the enterprise is engaging, on-brand, strategically coordinated, and aligned with institutional priorities.
  • Provide creative direction and strategic oversight for video and multimedia content, partnering with the videographer and creative leadership to produce high-quality content aligned with Butler's brand and audience priorities..
  • Write, edit, and review a wide range of high-impact content, including feature stories, video scripts, and web copy, ensuring clarity, quality, and alignment with Butler's brand positioning.
  • Build strong campus partnerships to identify and surface compelling stories, collaborating with colleagues across campus to unify Butler's storytelling efforts. 
  • Use analytics and audience insights to evaluate performance, guide content decisions, and drive continuous improvement in storytelling and engagement.
  • Drive innovation in storytelling strategy, experimenting with emerging platforms, tools, and content formats to keep Butler's brand content fresh, competitive, and relevant within higher education.

Required Qualifications 

  • 7-10 years of experience in content strategy, brand storytelling, digital content development, or related fields.

  • Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, journalism, English, advertising, or a related field.

  • Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills with a strong command of brand voice, tone, and narrative structure.

  • Experience leading or collaborating with social media teams and/or video and multimedia content creators.

  • Strong understanding of digital content best practices, including social platforms, audience engagement, and multimedia storytelling.

  • Strong editorial judgment and ability to translate institutional priorities into compelling content strategy.

  • Ability to interpret content performance insights and use data to inform decision-making and continuous improvement.

  • Proven success collaborating with creative teams to develop integrated digital, video, and print content.

  • Demonstrated skill in building relationships and working effectively with cross-functional partners across a complex organization.

  • Strong project management and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

  • Supervisory experience leading writers, social media professionals, and multimedia creators.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Prior experience working in higher education 

  • Familiarity with social media management tools (e.g. Sprout, Hootsuite)

  • Experience providing creative direction for video storytelling or managing video production workflows. 

  • Knowledge of SEO best practices as they relate to content planning and editorial strategy.

BU Benefits and Perks  

Please check out Butler's Total Rewards website to learn more about our benefit offerings, which include: 

  • Paid Time Off and Holidays:  
    • 28 days of paid time off (vacation and PTO days) per Fiscal year 
    • 8 Paid Holidays 
      • In addition, a paid Winter Break between Christmas Eve and New Year's Day 
    • Paid Parental Leave (after 1 year of full-time employment) 
  • Health:  
    • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans including disability and life insurance programs 
  • Retirement:  
    • 10% employer contribution after 1 year of full-time employment 
  • Tuition Assistance:  
    • Tuition Exchange Program for Dependents 
    • Remission of tuition for classes taken at Butler for employees, spouses, and dependent children.  
      • Eligibility after 9 months of full-time employment 
      • Employees & spouses- undergraduate/graduate degrees 
      • Dependents (under age 26)- undergraduate degree 
      • Covers tuition only 
  • Butler Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks:  
    • Access to Butler's on-site fitness facility and libraries for full-time staff and faculty 
    • LinkedIn Learning Courses 
    • Free premium subscription to the Calm App 
    • Free subscription to the WSJ, The Economist, and NYT 
    • Discount at the College Bookstore 
    • Discount on select Athletic and Arts/Events Center Performances 
Butler University is a private, nationally recognized comprehensive university encompassing seven colleges: Arts, Business, Communication, Education, Liberal Arts & Sciences, Pharmacy & Health Sciences and Founder's College. Approximately 4,500 undergraduate and 1,000 graduate and doctoral students are enrolled at Butler, representing 46 states and 24 countries.

Join us at the crossroads of tradition & transformation. A career at Butler University offers more than just a job-it's an opportunity to join a dedicated, innovative, and supportive community grounded in equity, academic excellence, and meaningful impact. Aligned with Boldly Butler, our strategic plan, faculty and staff play a vital role in delivering transformational learning experiences, enriching our campus and community, and ensuring a thriving Butler for generations to come.

Butler University is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of age, sex, race, religion, color, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or any other legally protected category.

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