Speechwriter

The mission of the New York City Police Department is to enhance the quality of life in New York City by working in partnership with the community to enforce the law, preserve peace, protect the people, reduce fear, and maintain order. The New York City Police Department strives to foster a safe and fair city through the strategic deployment of resources, focusing on both crime prevention and addressing quality-of-life concerns while building lasting community relationships.

The selected candidate will perform the duties of a Speechwriter. The responsibilities may include, but will not be limited to, the following:

• Draft speeches, remarks, talking points, briefing materials, internal messages, video scripts, op-eds, statements, quotes, and other written materials for the Police Commissioner and department leadership.
• Support preparation for press conferences, public events, ceremonies, internal meetings, legislative hearings, media engagements, and other high-priority appearances.
• Help translate complex public safety issues, operational updates, crime trends, policy initiatives, and department priorities into clear, accurate, and compelling language.
• Work with bureaus across the NYPD to gather information, verify facts, and ensure written materials reflect the department s work accurately and responsibly.
• Assist with editing and proofreading executive communications materials for clarity, tone, accuracy, grammar, and consistency.
• Help ensure communications are aligned with the NYPD’s mission, standards, and priorities.
• Track public safety issues, major events, department initiatives, and relevant news to support timely and informed executive communications.
• Perform other related duties and responsibilities as required.

Minimum Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree and 2+ years’ experience in speech writing or journalism.

Preferred Skills

• At least two years of professional writing experience, preferably in government, public affairs, journalism, communications, public relations, policy, or a related field.
• Strong writing, editing, proofreading, and research skills.
• Ability to write clearly and quickly under deadline pressure.
• Experience drafting speeches, talking points, statements, briefing materials, or other public-facing communications.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Sound judgment, discretion, and ability to handle sensitive information.
• Ability to work collaboratively with senior staff and subject-matter experts.
• Interest in public safety, city government, law enforcement, public policy, or crisis communications.
• Excellent work ethic, resolute integrity, and demonstrated commitment to delivering high-quality work as part of a team.

Residency Requirement

New York City residency is generally required within 90 days of appointment. However, City Employees in certain titles who have worked for the City for 2 continuous years may also be eligible to reside in Nassau, Suffolk, Putnam, Westchester, Rockland, or Orange County. To determine if the residency requirement applies to you, please discuss with the agency representative at the time of interview.

Additional Information

In compliance with federal Law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire. The City of New York offers a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance for the employee and his or her spouse or domestic partner and unemancipated children under age 26, union benefits such as dental and vision coverage, paid annual leave and sick leave, paid holidays, a pension, and optional savings and pre-tax programs such as Deferred Compensation, IRA, and a flexible spending account.