­­­­Copy Editor

The Reader Institute for Community Journalism, Inc. (RICJ), a nonprofit organization that publishes the Chicago Reader is seeking an organized, very detail-oriented individual to serve as a copy editor for the RICJ editorial team. As part of the RICJ team, you’ll work in an exciting industry, and have the support of a knowledgeable and enthusiastic management team.

This position is responsible for reviewing and revising content for accuracy and quality, and communicating and working with the editorial team to ensure content is published in the most accurate and timely manner. This position reports directly to the managing editor and will work closely with the editor in chief, as well as the editorial team to copy edit, proof articles, and fact check for the Chicago Reader’s biweekly print and online publications as well as RICJ public-facing projects.

Desired Skills and Responsibilities:

High level of accuracy and attention to detail with exceptional written communication skills
Able to identify and correct the written errors of others and in your own personal written work
Reviewing and revising content for accuracy and quality, including spelling, grammar and punctuation, and syntax.
Ensuring correct tone, voice clarity, flow, and structure of Reader content
Time management skills are very necessary
Must be able to handle multiple responsibilities simultaneously, prioritize and balance workloads, and meet critical deadlines in a busy remote environment
Ability to work independently or in a team environment
Takes the initiative to follow up with colleagues
Must be able to confidently ask questions
Solely responsible for identifying issues/proposing solutions/next steps, and being able to collaborate with others to troubleshoot and problem solve
Ability to communicate effectively in a diverse workforce and is able to establish and maintain working relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds and demonstrate sensitivity to cross-cultural perspectives and experiences
Demonstrates clear and professional verbal communication skills
Maintains confidentiality and protects sensitive information in accordance with organizational standards
Demonstrated ability to receive and integrate feedback and direction effectively
. . . and other duties may be assigned

Requirements

At least one year of experience copy editing, proofreading, and fact checking, preferably for a media outlet, is required
An exceptional understanding of language
Intermediate in Google Suite: Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Drive
Working knowledge of Chicago Manual of Style principles, experience with AP Style and other style guides helpful
Work experience within a newsroom or media outlet setting is preferred
Multi-tasking skills and the ability to work independently
Some experience with Wordpress and Adobe products (particularly InCopy) is helpful
A sense of humor and a positive attitude

Salary: $45,000 – $50,000. Benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as paid time off. This is a union position under the supervision of the Managing Editor. Chicago Reader editorial staff are members of the NewsGuild/Communication Workers of America Local 34071.