Impact Storytelling Lead

Oregon State University; Corvallis (OR); On-site; USD 58,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Oregon State University is seeking an Impact Storytelling Lead within the College of Liberal Arts’ School of Writing, Literature & Film. This full-time, 12-month professional faculty role advances the OSU Story Lab’s mission to translate research into compelling narratives and train the next generation of science communicators.

The role collaborates with Story Lab leadership to optimize projects for impact, from intake through publication and audience engagement, and requires experience in

Qualifications

• Graduate degree in a field related to science communication, science methodologies, and/or storytelling.
• 5+ years of professional experience in impact storytelling.
• Strong record of impact storytelling development, evidenced by a portfolio of distributed/published media work.
• Commitment to building diverse, inclusive, high-performing media teams.

Responsibilities

• Integrate impact considerations throughout the creative process, from project selection to distribution and audience engagement.
• Develop systems, templates, and best practices that strengthen Story Lab's creative and operational processes.
• Provide editorial feedback throughout the storytelling process, focusing on audience, impact, and narrative effectiveness.
• Assess projects for publication opportunities, audience engagement, and overall impact potential.
• Develop strategies to reach intended audiences and maximize public engagement.

Skills

Impact storytelling

Editorial feedback

Audience engagement

Team leadership

Education

Graduate degree in science communication / storytelling

Job description

Department

College of Liberal Arts

Starting salary will be commensurate with skills, education, and experience.

Job Summary

The College of Liberal Arts, School of Writing, Literature & Film, is seeking an Impact Storytelling Lead. This is a full-time (1.00 FTE), 12-month, professional faculty position.

The OSU Story Lab advances research impact through compelling, richly told stories. We partner with researchers at OSU and beyond, as well as nonprofits, Tribal partners and government agencies, creating powerful communications that achieve outreach goals while training the next generation of science communicators.

The Impact Storytelling Lead position collaborates with Story Lab leadership to ensure projects are optimized for impact. From client intake to publication and audience engagement, this position will help build a sustainable, mission-driven program.

Key Responsibilities

• Integrate impact considerations throughout the creative process, from project selection and story development through distribution and audience engagement.
• Develop systems, templates, and best practices that strengthen Story Lab's creative and operational processes.
• Provide editorial feedback throughout the storytelling process, with an emphasis on audience, impact, and narrative effectiveness.
• Assess projects for publication opportunities, audience engagement, and overall impact potential.
• Develop strategies that help Story Lab projects reach intended audiences and maximize public engagement.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Graduate degree in field relevant to science communication, science methodologies, and/or storytelling.
• 5+ years of professional experience in the field of impact storytelling
• Strong record of impact storytelling development, evidenced by a portfolio of distributed/published media work
• Evident commitment to working with and building teams of diverse, inclusive, and high-performing media professionals

This position requires driving a university vehicle or a personal vehicle on behalf of the university; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a motor vehicle history check, possess and maintain a current, valid driver's license in their state of residence, be determined to be position qualified and self-report convictions as per University Policy 05-030.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with diverse clients and subjects, especially in remote settings or challenging conditions
• Experience with science communication and research storytelling, translating specialized research into compelling narratives for non-specialist audiences
• Evidence of dedication to effective mentorship of aspiring storytellers

Working Conditions/Schedule

This position requires routine on-campus presence. Periodically, the incumbent will be expected to participate in Story Lab projects conducted in diverse and often remote areas, both on land and water. The Impact Storytelling Lead may be expected to help transport media equipment, at times weighing more than 50 lbs., and may be expected to work extended periods outdoors, including in inclement weather and/or challenging conditions (e.g., filming on watercraft). Schedule is flexible and aligned with Story Lab needs and priorities.

Salary Range

$58,000-$75,000

Anticipated Start Date

2026-09-01

Anticipated End Date

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability, protected veteran, and other protected status.

OSU will conduct a review of the National Sex Offender Public website prior to hire.

OSU is a fair chance employer committed to inclusive hiring. We encourage applications from candidates who bring a wide range of lived experience including involvement with the justice system.

Take a look at our Background Checks website including the for candidates section for more details. If you have questions or concerns about the pre-employment check, please contact OSU’s Employee and Labor Relations team at [e-mail].