Staff Writer

Job Description

Position: Staff Writer
Reports To: Editor in Chief
Location: Fort Wayne / Northeast Indiana
Salary: $48,000 - $54,000
Please apply at: Human Resources - The Catholic Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend

Position Overview
The Staff Writer is responsible for researching and writing news and feature content for Today's Catholic and other diocesan communication platforms. This role covers diocesan initiatives, parish and school life, and Catholic community events, and contributes to additional writing projects that support the communications needs of offices and ministries in the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend.

Duties and Responsibilities
- Research, report, and write news and feature stories for Today's Catholic and diocesan digital platforms.
- Pitch story ideas and identify opportunities to highlight parish life, Catholic schools, ministries, and diocesan initiatives.
- Build and maintain positive relationships with parishes, schools, and Catholic organizations throughout the diocese.
- Conduct interviews and gather information through research, observation, and direct engagement with sources.
- Write clearly, accurately, and compellingly, following AP style guidelines and diocesan editorial standards.
- Revise and update stories as requested to reflect developing information or editorial feedback.
- Collaborate with editors, designers, photographers, and communications staff to support cohesive storytelling across print, web, and social media.
- Assist with photo capture, editing, and selection to support written stories.
- Meet assigned deadlines and communicate proactively about workload, progress, and emerging story opportunities.
- Support broader Office of Communications initiatives, including marketing efforts, campaigns, and special projects, as needed. May also be assigned to other writing projects in support of diocesan offices, ministries, and more.
- Participate in staff meetings, planning sessions, and diocesan events as assigned.
- Represent the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend with professionalism, hospitality, and servant leadership in all interactions.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Editor in Chief and Secretariat Director of Communications.

Education & Related Work Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism, English, or a related field required.
- 2-4 years of professional experience in journalism, communications, or related writing-focused roles preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Demonstrated experience using digital tools for writing, research, content management, and publication workflows.

Additional Skills & Knowledge
- Strong writing, editing, and storytelling skills with attention to clarity, accuracy, and tone.
- Ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines in a collaborative environment. Ability to work independently while contributing positively to a team-based office culture.
- Detail-oriented, organized, and able to follow editorial direction while exercising sound judgment.
- Strong interpersonal skills and comfort engaging with clergy, staff, parish leaders, and community members.
- Comfort working in digital-first publishing environments, including content management systems, collaborative editing tools, and web-based publishing.
- Positive attitude, flexibility, and professionalism under deadline pressure. Willingness to adapt priorities to support diocesan needs and pastoral initiatives.
- Demonstrated respect for and commitment to the mission, teachings, and values of the Catholic Church.

Work Environment:
This position is based at the Archbishop Noll Center in Fort Wayne, which serves as the primary home base for the role. For candidates residing in other areas of the diocese, limited flexibility may be considered, including the possibility of a satellite work location at the John Paul II Center in Mishawaka or other solutions, subject to operational needs and approval.

Regular travel throughout the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend is required for reporting assignments, meetings, and events. Evening and weekend availability is expected when diocesan events, deadlines, or coverage needs necessitate it.

Physical Requirements:
The physical demands described are representative of those required to perform essential job functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made. Duties include extended periods of sitting, writing, typing, and occasional walking, stair climbing, and lifting up to 10 pounds. The position requires use of a computer for 5-6 hours per day.

Nondiscrimination Policy:
Diocesan employment practices are based on job-related criteria such as fidelity to the Catholic faith, individual merit, ability, experience, performance, education, and training. Because the diocese's mission is religious, preference may be given to Catholics in good standing.

Policy for the Protection of Children, Young People, and Vulnerable Adults:
All diocesan personnel must comply with the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend's policies regarding the protection of children and young people and are required to report suspected abuse in accordance with diocesan and civil guidelines.