SELF produces science-backed, human-focused content our audience can trust. We’re not here to fearmonger, judge, or gloss over the facts—we inform, motivate, and entertain readers. We do that by focusing on four key values: inclusivity, accuracy, empathy, and autonomy.
We are seeking an experienced writer with a strong background in science-based yet personable health service journalism to join the SELF team. This person will be responsible for publishing three to four articles per week. The Senior Health Writer must be comfortable handling multiple stories at once, at various stages of the pitch-to-publish process (writing a first draft of one while between revisions and reporting calls for others, for example).
The Senior Health Writer will write timely health stories that help our readers live better, without stigma or alarmism, whether we’re offering tips for getting better rest, busting myths about hangover cures, breaking down why your sex drive is higher during your period, or offering help with pushing back against medical bias.
The ideal candidate has a strong scientific literacy: a deep understanding of what evidence and sourcing are necessary to write accurate service articles about of-the-moment health topics. They will translate that information into writing that’s lively, actionable, accessible, and sharp, never dry or academic. Whether they’re covering sunburns, sleep, hair loss, substance use, anxiety, or safer sex, this person will handle every story with nuance and care.
This position will report to SELF’s Health Director with top-level direction from the Executive Editor.
Primary responsibilities:
Write and publish three to four health articles per week, focusing on culture- and lifestyle-informed quick hits, mid-length reports, and service-minded guides and explainers, totaling at least 12 articles per month.
Rigorously fact-check and proofread drafts before filing copy to the Health Director.
Brainstorm and write copy for larger editorial initiatives and projects as needed, such as reviewing products for SELF’s Healthy Beauty Awards or contributing to themed packages and series.
Occasionally participate in brand extension opportunities when available, such as appearing in social content or attending SELF events.
Use analytics to hone your pitches. If something isn’t working, you’ll try something new.
Provide editing support for select health stories as needed.
Additional responsibilities as assigned.
Requirements:
A minimum of five years of health and lifestyle writing experience.
A background in health and wellness service journalism.
High scientific literacy and a deep understanding of health reporting best practices, including sourcing, interviewing, and fact-checking.
A keen eye for timely, thought-provoking stories and razor-sharp editorial judgment.
The ability to quickly write clean, accurate, and fun copy in a conversational voice that establishes a clear point of view.
Diligence in applying editorial feedback, meeting deadlines, helping to maintain an up-to-date editorial calendar, correctly formatting stories in the CMS, and other administrative tasks as they relate to individual stories.
Stellar communication skills with colleagues, sources, and other professional contacts.
A strong belief in inclusivity as it relates to identity, body size, and health, writ large.
The expected base salary range for this position is from $85,000.00-$100,000. Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including but not limited to relevant skills, training, experience, and education.