Associate News Editor, Science News - Society for Science

Founded in 1921, the Society for Science (Society), is a champion for science, dedicated to expanding scientific literacy, effective STEM education, and scientific research. Through its world-class competitions, including the Regeneron Science Talent Search, the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair, the Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge, and its award-winning magazines, Science News and Science News Explores, the Society, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) membership organization, is focused on promoting the understanding and appreciation of science and the vital role it plays in human advancement: to inform, education, and inspire.

Position Overview

This editor works closely with the News Director and other editors to plan daily and maintain a fast-paced flow of digital-first content across all fields of science for the general public. Our flagship ScienceNews.org site drew more than 1M monthly users and 2M pageviews, as well as 5M followers on the former Twitter and 2.6M followers on Facebook. [NS1] We have a growing presence on YouTube, TikTok and Instagram, and our flagship print magazine has a circulation of 120,000.

As a member of the news desk, you will keep current on emerging research and news events, with an eye to finding news of the latest scientific findings and stories that provide opportunities to explain the science behind topics of wide public interest. This includes collaborating with other members of the news team to make assignments and edit stories in a wide range of styles and scientific disciplines, from physics and astronomy to human evolution and health and medicine.

We encourage news editors to develop a specialty in a coverage area that aligns with our news priorities and help guide coverage in that arena, including acting as the point person for that topic on the news team, developing story ideas, building in-house depth and cultivating freelancers. And you'll play a key role in our ongoing efforts to innovate in our coverage, story forms, products, and work processes.

You'll be joining a group of creative, inquisitive people who come to science journalism from diverse backgrounds, education and experience. We are a collaborative bunch who love nothing more than to geek out about the latest discoveries, the wild weirdness of science and how we can explain the world to our varied audiences. We're constantly experimenting to better serve our millions of readers in print and online, while also remaining true to our mission as independent nonprofit journalists.

We are committed to diversity and building an inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds and ages. We especially encourage members of traditionally underrepresented communities to apply, including people of color, LGBTQ people and people with disabilities.

We know there are great candidates who may not fit into what we've described here or who have important skills we haven't thought of. If that's you, don't hesitate to apply and tell us about yourself.

Job Responsibilities

• Working with staff writers and freelancers to develop effective pitches for daily news coverage and long-range enterprise stories
• Taking an audience-first approach to shaping coverage that meets the needs of our diverse web and print audiences, including using analytics to better understand audience trends and opportunities for growth
• Assigning and editing articles for digital and print editions of Science News
• Using SEO best practices to help audiences connect with our journalism
• Developing digital-first visuals in collaboration with the Design and Digital teams
• Producing and editing articles in a WordPress CMS
• Ensuring diversity in coverage and sourcing
• Interest in science and enthusiasm for helping the general public engage with science
• Other editing duties as needed

Competencies

• Good news judgment
• Exceptional communications skills, both written and verbal
• Collegiality in working with staff and freelance writers and editors
• Ability to collaborate across teams
• Strong work ethic and ability to work independently
• Attention to detail
• Ability to manage tight deadlines and juggle diverse assignments
• Affinity for the mission of the Society for Science

Work Environment

While performing the duties of this job, the employee usually works in an office setting. Our office is located near the Dupont Circle and Farragut North Metro stations in Washington, D.C.

As of Sept. 5, 2023, the Society is working in a hybrid mode with staff in the office two days a week.

Position Type and Expected Hours

This is a full-time, exempt position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday during normal office hours of the Society. Occasional travel may be necessary in this position.

Salary range

$78,000 - $88,000; salary is commensurate with experience.

Required Education and Experience

• BA degree or equivalent experience required; an advanced degree in science and/or journalism is a plus but not required.
• At least 3 years of news editing experience. Experience in daily news, and/or in science, medicine or technology is a plus but not required.

Additional Information

Society for Science has mandated the COVID-19 vaccine for employees coming into the office and attending Society events. Exceptions to the vaccine requirement may be provided to individuals for religious beliefs or medical reasons.

How to Apply

Submit a professional resume and cover letter to be considered for this position. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.

Please apply through Applicant Pro.

EEO Statement

The Society is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. Society for Science is committed to equal employment opportunity. In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, the Society does not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis, including but not limited to: veteran status, race, color, religion, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, ancestry, national origin, disability, personal appearance, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, age and/or any other categories protected by the laws of the United States or the District of Columbia.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover every duty, responsibility and activity that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.