π Core Information
πΉ Job Title: Copywriter
πΉ Company: Quad
πΉ Location: Chicago, Illinois, United States
πΉ Job Type: On-site
πΉ Category: Advertising Services
πΉ Date Posted: July 10, 2025
πΉ Experience Level: 2-5 years
πΉ Remote Status: On-site
π Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Concepting and developing integrated ad campaigns
- Flexing conceptually from social to video to technical writing
- Collaborating with cross-functional teams, including other creatives, account management, production, strategy, and media
- Staying abreast of trends and new media formats
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong conceptual thinker with a diverse skill set in copywriting to drive creative ideas that move businesses forward.
π Key Responsibilities
β
Understand clientsβ business challenges and develop compelling integrated creative ideas
β
Write scripts, posts, headlines, and copy that help clients move their businesses forward
β
Present work internally and to clients
β
Collaborate with art directors and designers from concept through production
β
Foster an inclusive, inspiring, and energetic working environment
β
Meet deadlines and requirements from kickoff to final delivery
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of creativity, collaboration, and adaptability to various media formats and client needs.
π― Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., Advertising, Marketing, English, Journalism)
Experience: 2-5 years of experience as a copywriter in a creative/ad agency
Required Skills:
- Proven ability to think in unexpected ways and develop creative concepts
- Experience with integrated production/campaign development
- Ability to write compelling copy in long and short formats
- Strong presentation skills
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with specific software tools used in creative agencies (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office)
- Familiarity with data-driven marketing strategies
ASSUMPTION: A strong portfolio showcasing unexpected thinking and a diverse range of work is essential for this role.
π° Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $59,000 - $80,000 per year (commensurate with experience and quality of portfolio)
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Holidays
- Vacations
Working Hours: Full-time (40 hours per week)
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is based on industry standards for copywriters with 2-5 years of experience in the Chicago area.
π Applicant Insights
π Company Context
Industry: Quad is a global marketing experience company that helps brands make direct consumer connections across various channels.
Company Size: Quad has 10,001+ employees, making it a large enterprise with diverse opportunities for growth and collaboration.
Founded: 1971 (QuadGraphics)
Company Description:
- Quad offers a wide range of media, creative, and production solutions to streamline marketing complexities and drive value on client investments.
- The company serves approximately 2,700 clients, including industry-leading blue-chip companies, with a particular focus on commerce, financial services, and health.
- Quad is ranked as the 14th largest agency company in the U.S. by Ad Age (2023) and the second-largest commercial printer in North America, according to Printing Impressions (2023).
Company Specialties:
- Packaging
- Digital Marketing
- Direct Marketing
- In-Store
- Print
- Data and Analytics
- Technology Solutions
- Media Services
- Content Services
- Consulting
- Strategy
- Managed Services
- Creative Services
Company Website: http://www.quad.com
ASSUMPTION: Quad's diverse range of services and large client base provide ample opportunities for creative copywriters to work on various projects and industries.
π Role Analysis
Career Level: Mid-level (2-5 years of experience)
Reporting Structure: This role reports to the Creative Director and works closely with art directors, designers, account management, production, strategy, and media teams.
Work Arrangement: On-site, with the possibility of hybrid or remote work in the future, depending on the company's policies and the employee's performance.
Growth Opportunities:
- Advancement to Senior Copywriter or Creative Director roles
- Expansion of skills and expertise through working on diverse projects and collaborating with various teams
- Potential to work on international projects, given Quad's global presence
ASSUMPTION: This role offers ample opportunities for growth and development within the creative department and the broader organization.
π Location & Work Environment
Office Type: On-site, with modern facilities and collaborative workspaces
Office Location(s): Chicago, Illinois, United States
Geographic Context:
- Chicago is a major city with a vibrant cultural scene, offering numerous opportunities for creative inspiration
- The city is home to various advertising agencies and marketing companies, providing a competitive job market and networking opportunities
- Chicago has a diverse range of neighborhoods and communities, offering various housing and lifestyle options
Work Schedule: Full-time (40 hours per week), with the possibility of overtime during peak periods
ASSUMPTION: The Chicago office provides a dynamic and creative work environment, with ample opportunities for collaboration and professional growth.
πΌ Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application and resume submission
- Phone or video screen with the HR department
- Creative brief or portfolio presentation to the creative team
- Final interview with the Creative Director and other stakeholders
Key Assessment Areas:
- Creativity and conceptual thinking
- Writing skills and versatility across various media formats
- Presentation skills and ability to articulate ideas clearly
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Adaptability and problem-solving skills
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight your most relevant experience and skills for this role
- Prepare a creative brief or portfolio presentation that showcases your ability to think in unexpected ways and develop compelling integrated creative ideas
- Research Quad's clients and industry to demonstrate your understanding of the business challenges they face and how your creative ideas can help move their businesses forward
ATS Keywords: Copywriter, Creative Concepting, Integrated Campaigns, Social Media, Technical Writing, Collaboration, Presentation Skills, Trend Awareness
ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role is competitive, and applicants should be prepared to demonstrate their creativity, versatility, and ability to work collaboratively with various teams.
π οΈ Tools & Technologies
- Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
- Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, JIRA)
- Creative brief and portfolio presentation tools (e.g., Google Slides, Keynote)
ASSUMPTION: Familiarity with these tools is not required but may be beneficial for applicants, as they are commonly used in creative agencies.
π Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Innovation
- Collaboration
- Integrity
- Accountability
- Diversity & Inclusion
Work Style:
- Creative and innovative
- Collaborative and team-oriented
- Adaptable and responsive to client needs
- Results-driven and focused on delivering high-quality work
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you thrive in a collaborative, creative environment where your ideas are valued and built upon by others?
- Are you comfortable working on multiple projects simultaneously and adapting to changing priorities?
- Do you have a strong work ethic and a commitment to delivering high-quality work, even under tight deadlines?
ASSUMPTION: Applicants should assess their fit with Quad's company values and work style to ensure a successful and fulfilling career with the organization.
β οΈ Potential Challenges
- Managing multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
- Adapting to the unique needs and preferences of various clients
- Working collaboratively with diverse teams, including non-creative stakeholders
- Keeping up with industry trends and new media formats
ASSUMPTION: These challenges can be overcome with strong organizational skills, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
π Similar Roles Comparison
- Compared to other copywriter roles, this position offers a broader range of creative opportunities and the chance to work on integrated campaigns across various media formats
- Quad's large client base and diverse range of services provide ample opportunities for creative copywriters to work on various projects and industries
- This role offers potential for growth and advancement within the creative department and the broader organization
ASSUMPTION: Applicants should consider the unique opportunities and challenges of this role compared to similar positions in the industry to determine if it is the right fit for their career goals.
π Sample Projects
- Developing an integrated ad campaign for a retail client, including social media posts, video scripts, and in-store signage
- Writing compelling copy for a financial services client's website, including long-form content and calls-to-action
- Creating a technical writing guide for a health and wellness client, outlining best practices for content creation and distribution
ASSUMPTION: These sample projects demonstrate the diverse range of creative opportunities available to copywriters at Quad, showcasing the need for versatility and adaptability in the role.
β Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- Can you describe the creative process and how copywriters collaborate with other teams at Quad?
- How does Quad support the professional development and growth of its creative employees?
- Can you provide examples of successful integrated campaigns developed by the creative team, and how copywriters contributed to their success?
- How does Quad foster an inclusive and innovative work environment, and what role do copywriters play in maintaining this culture?
- What are the most challenging aspects of working as a copywriter at Quad, and how can I best prepare to overcome these obstacles?
ASSUMPTION: These questions are designed to help applicants better understand the creative process, work environment, and professional development opportunities at Quad, allowing them to make an informed decision about their career prospects with the organization.
π Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight your most relevant experience and skills for this role
- Prepare a creative brief or portfolio presentation that showcases your ability to think in unexpected ways and develop compelling integrated creative ideas
- Research Quad's clients and industry to demonstrate your understanding of the business challenges they face and how your creative ideas can help move their businesses forward
- Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to express your interest in the role and reiterate your qualifications
β οΈ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.