Production Editor
The Production Editor plays a vital role in overseeing the editorial operations of State Affairs Pro across five states. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the delivery of compelling, relevant, and accurate news stories to our readership. This position requires a strong journalistic or copyediting background and a passion for delivering impactful nonpartisan news. Attention to detail is paramount, and knowledge of The Associated Press style is desirable.
The Production Editor should be adept at managing a daily flow of stories.
State Affairs is deeply dedicated to nonpartisan news coverage of state governments around the country. We do this through two platforms — State Affairs Citizen, for a broad audience; and State Affairs Pro, geared toward policy wonks. The Production Editor will edit State Affairs Pro copy, but backup the Regional Editor in editing Citizen copy.
This full-time job with benefits is an in-person position in Miami, FL, with some opportunities on some days to work from home. Some travel is required.
The salary is negotiable.
Duties and responsibilities:
Edit stories, graphics, pull quotes, info boxes, etc., for content, errors and libel, taking into consideration AP Style and the in-house style guide.
Proofread/copy edit the weekly Pro editions before publication.
In coordination with the Regional Editor, work with State Affairs interns to make sure they are thriving & trained.
Run editorial meetings in the absence of the Regional Editor.
Write corrections or clarifications with the reporter on a story when needed.
Maintain guidelines and submissions from freelancers and guest contributors.
Coordinate each phase of production, from Story Bin management to hitting Publish.
Ensure Story Bin and Workflow sheets are updated and clean
Track each story from assignment to publication
Gather photos for stories or request them as needed
Draft and/or edit and proofread stories in WordPress
Work with head of SEO to ensure all SEO needs are met
Ensure new stories in WordPress are error-free prior to publication
Publish stories after final sign-off from Regional Editor or state Managing Editor
Troubleshoot content/technical issues that arise in WordPress
Work with marketing/social media to facilitate workflow.
Provide any assistance needed with links or other content
Provide training and guidance for new editors and reporters.
Update and maintain how-to guides on publishing process
Update and maintain internal style guide
Provide guidance and training on AP and house style guide
Provide guidance on SEO best practices in coordination with head of SEO
Assist new editors as they onboard and learn in-house processes
Assist with production of newsletters.
Edit and proofread newsletters prior to publication
In absence of newsletter editor, act as point (gather/edit/send)
Review, edit and post State Affairs Pro copy to the website according to State Affairs standards
Review, copyedit and post the Pro Indiana and Kansas daily wires
Provide necessary website and story posting training to Pro team members
Work across all departments to help with metrics and to ensure the smooth operation of the Pro teams
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
5+ years of experience in journalism, with a background in editing.
Proven track record of delivering high-quality, impactful journalism across multiple platforms.
Deep understanding of the principles of journalism, ethical guidelines, and legal considerations.
A firm commitment to nonpartisan news coverage.
A team player mentality. Able to work well with others across departments.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including exceptional editing and storytelling abilities.
Familiarity with digital publishing platforms, analytics tools, and social media platforms.
Knowledge of WordPress and Campaign Monitor a major plus.
State Affairs is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.
Interested candidates should forward a resume and cover letter to Alison Bethel, chief content officer and editor-in-chief, at alison@stateaffairs.com. Applications without a cover letter will not be reviewed.