Assistant Digital Editor, Science and Innovation

Position description

For more than 50 years, Smithsonian magazine has taken the mission of its parent institution—the increase and diffusion of knowledge—and applied that to its journalism. Our editors and writers seek to put a “Smithsonian lens” on the world as we report on history, science, arts, innovation and culture. Through our reporting, we seek to examine the American experience, unlock the mysteries of the universe, inform our readers of the value of a healthy and biodiverse planet, better understand world cultures, and magnify the transformative power of art.

 

The magazine is looking for its next great science editor to join its digital team. Ideal candidates will be excited about publishing stories that demystify the complexities of the natural world and want to share their excitement about scientific breakthroughs with our readership. They should be brimming with story ideas and eager to make their mark on our science journalism. They will also be constantly curious, sparking new ideas for coverage and pushing the digital team in new directions.

 

Duties and Responsibilities include the following:  

 

 

• Edit the daily news coverage on the Smithsonian magazine website, as written by outside contractors, coordinating with the Assistant Digital Editor, Humanities
• Identify and recruit new writers as needed to maintain a steady output of stories in the Smart News vertical
• Generate original story ideas for all verticals of Smithsonian’s website, with special focus on:

• Writing compelling articles on new developments in scientific research, explainers on science-related topics of interest to our readers, and features that offer context on current events or special anniversaries
• Reporting on breaking news related to science and innovation within the Smithsonian Institution.
• Writing innovation content focused on new technologies and up-and-coming inventors
• Identifying latest trends in public health, astronomy, wildlife conservation, scientific research, archaeology, and any areas that are science-adjacent
• Assisting in photo research and illustrations for stories

• Collaborate with video team on fact-checking and offering feedback on science explainer videos
• Edit, fact-check and write additional material for stories in the magazine archives, with the goal of increasing traffic from search engines.
• Produce articles in the magazine’s content management system and be able to train new writers on how to do the same
• Help develop content for editorial packages and content product ideas such as live events and newsletters
• Analyze traffic reports and identify trends to maximize traffic to website 

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) in English, science or journalism from a four-year college or university and/or 3-5 years of related experience training; or equivalent combination of education and editing experience at a news gathering organization.

 

• Excellent written, verbal, research, organizational and analytical skills.
• Experience editing work for others in a science journalism-based environment. 
• Understanding of basic journalism practices and ethics
• Experience with Photoshop, HTML and Web content management systems preferred.
• Excellent attention to detail
• Knowledgeable of Microsoft Office Applications
• Experience with day-to-day website management and the tools utilized in all aspects of web work.
• Experience and talent working both independently and in a team-oriented environment.
• Ability to be flexible during times of change, shifting priorities, demands and timelines. 
• Ability to react to project adjustments and alterations promptly and efficiently.
• Ability to learn, understand and apply new technologies and tools. 

 

Salary: Up to $65k Annually, commensurate with experience

 

Application instructions

Email resume and cover letter with salary requirements.

 

Please include job title in the subject line. No phone calls, please. This is not a remote role - incumbent will work on site

 

Excellent Benefit programs including Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Dental/Vision Insurance, Transit/Commuter Benefits, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Annual and Sick Leave, Family Friendly Leave, 403b Retirement Program, Smithsonian Discounts, Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care) 

  

Final candidate selection will be subject to the applicant’s successful completion of a pre-employment background check and subsequent background investigation for a position classified as low risk.  Selectee will be required to serve a one-year probationary period. Applicants must be eligible for employment within the US without sponsorship. This is not a Federal Service position.

 

The Smithsonian Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that a workforce comprising a variety of educational, cultural, and experiential backgrounds support and enhance our daily work life and contribute to the richness of our exhibitions and programs. 

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