Play Writer

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in New York.

📋 Description

• Establish and uphold the editorial voice and standards for Play, ensuring that content is intelligent, welcoming, inclusive, and habit-forming.

• Take ownership of all editorial content related to Play, which includes explanatory, promotional, and feature storytelling connected to games, puzzles, horoscopes, and comics.

• Formulate a clear perspective on the role of games and horoscopes in readers’ daily routines—and how USA TODAY can distinguish itself in a competitive gaming environment.

• Compose and edit a weekly Play newsletter, utilizing it as a significant driver for audience growth and engagement.

• Write articles inspired by Play content themes, encompassing behind-the-scenes insights, how-to guides, habit-building narratives, cultural connections, and product launches.

• Create on-platform copy, promotional messaging, push notifications, and campaign language associated with Play products and their launches.

• Oversee editorial content related to daily and monthly horoscopes and comics, including coverage of launches, reader education, and pertinent stories.

• Leverage audience data and performance insights to inform content decisions, growth strategies, enhance loyalty, encourage repeat usage, and increase subscription value.

• Collaborate with social media, newsletter, and growth teams to amplify the reach of Play content across various platforms.

• Work closely with the product team to inform and shape the overarching games strategy, integrating editorial insights into product development and launches.

• Assist in defining how editorial, UX, and content packaging can work in unison to establish Play as a daily destination.

• Participate in the testing, iteration, and launch planning for new games, features, and experiences.

⛳️ Requirements

• Over 5 years of experience in digital journalism, editing, or content strategy; experience in games, lifestyle, entertainment, or related fields is advantageous.

• Exceptional writing and editing abilities, with a knack for transforming utility-driven content into captivating storytelling.

• Strong audience-first approach, with experience in utilizing analytics to steer decisions.

• Comfort in collaborating with product, design, and growth teams—and influencing strategies beyond traditional editorial realms.

• Creative, organized, and self-motivated, with the capability to manage multiple content streams and meet deadlines.

• A passion for puzzles, games, comics, and horoscopes—or the willingness to rapidly develop a deep understanding of these areas.

🏝️ Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.

• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.

• A dynamic and inclusive workplace culture.