Grist is an online news site that uses smarts and humor to shine a light on the big green issues changing our world. Now in its 16th year, Grist is poised to take its unique brand of journalism to a new level of growth and impact. This is a rare opportunity to be part of a fast-growing organization that combines the energy, creativity, and initiative of a young internet company with the spirit of a nonprofit. If you want to advance journalism on the web and change the world while you do it, you’ve found the place.
The Sr. Editor, News plays a crucial role in Grist’s Editorial team. S/he will manage a small, hilarious, nimble team in creating Grist’s daily news product — on[[http:Grist.org|Grist.org]], on social media, and other platforms as needed. We’re seeking a news junkie who’s obsessed with being ahead of the cycle and making Grist an always-entertaining, go-to source when stories break in our coverage areas. If The Daily Show had a breaking news site, what would it be like? We want you to find out. Reporting to the Executive Editor, the Sr. Editor, News is a member of the Sr. Editorial Board and will also play a big part in both high-level editorial strategy and long-term planning.
Specific Duties and Assignments:
Responsible for Grist’s news content and coverage
Manage and edit junior staff
Plan long-term and enterprise coverage
Reporting and writing assignments
Other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications:
At least 3 years of news editing experience, preferably online
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, juggling multiple priorities and deadlines
Experience and comfort with technology, social media, and digital tools for journalism
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in journalism, communications, English, or related fields
Facility with desktop writing tools and web technologies for newsgathering and publishing
Superior organizational skills and obsessive attention to details
Irreverent and strong sense of humor
Excellent analytical and process improvement skills
Ability to work independently, demonstrate good personal judgment, and exercise a commitment to ethical conduct toward sources, story subjects, and readers
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and writing skills. Demonstrated poise, tact, diplomacy, and the ability to interact with individuals at all levels of the organization
And it sure would be nice if you also had:
You have an irrepressible interest in news in general as well as in the topics we cover (climate and energy, sustainability, food, environmental justice)
You’re excited about steering coverage and exploring innovative ways to use new media to tell stories in a fast-moving environment, specifically for mobile devices
You possess a strong voice and have no qualms about using it
You know how to identify stories that are resonating online
You know how to pursue a story online and offline, in social and traditional media
Breaking news thrills you, but you don’t think aggregation is a dirty word
Grist offers a dynamic and engaging editorial environment and the opportunity to be part of a unique online publication with a mission.
About Grist
Grist is an independent nonprofit media organization that shapes the country’s environmental conversations, making green second nature for our monthly audience of 2,000,000 and growing. We reach the next generation by cutting through the noise to connect big issues like climate change to daily life, and by spotlighting the people and ideas leading us to a more sustainable future. (Also by posting videos of baby animals.) Founded in 1999, Grist has been featured by media including The New York Times, The Washington Post, NBC’s Today show, and Time, and has won many prestigious awards for its pioneering media work.
How to apply
To apply, please send a cover letter, resume and writing samples to itsnewstome@grist.org with “Senior Editor, News” in the subject line. We are looking for a thoughtful, personalized cover letter that demonstrates your qualifications and writing style. Please submit application materials by August 27, 2015. No phone calls, please. Grist is an equal-opportunity employer.