Assistant Editor

Summary :

The Assistant Editor participates in all content channels, working on everything from breaking news to local entertainment to enterprise projects. Duties can vary within the team, but all reporter / editors are expected to be fluent in : writing, editing and preparing content for publication on all platforms; performing other functions that require sharp news judgment, including programming web pages based on audience data; managing content from outside sources such as wire services; aggregating content or writing quick briefs, when necessary; and publishing on other platforms such as social media.

What you will do :

Organizes and assists senior editor with planning content; coordinates with production hub to get sections to the pressroom and meet deadlines

At direction of and in collaboration with senior editor, assigns stories to or accepts content from reporters, freelancers, letter writers and guest commentary contributors

At direction of and in collaboration with senior editor, edits copy to improve focus, structure and flow of content, and identify logical inconsistencies and errors; provides feedback to freelancers and reporters

Understands and implements SEO techniques

Publishes stories to the website and prepares stories for publishing in print

Able to write accurate copy for assigned sections as needed; this could include news stories, commentary, reviews or opinion columns and fact boxes

Ensures necessary visuals are assigned

Assists section editor with monitoring freelance budget if required

Responds in a respectful manner to communications (e-mails, phone calls) from readers concerning complaints and story pitches

Assists other departments as vacations or news events dictate

What you will bring :

An imagination and ability to find new ways to tell stories

A team-first work ethic and an ability to foster excellent communication

The energy and entrepreneurial spirit to raise the competitive metabolism of the entire newsroom

Deep familiarity with online metrics and audience tracking systems

Exceptional news judgment and proven ability at carving out distinctive angles on major news events

Ability to articulate the importance and benefits of culture change and advocate for it across the newsroom

Knowledge of media industry economics and challenges facing legacy media companies

Flexibility to work with text, photos and graphics to create engaging interactive

Solid grasp of the rules of grammar, spelling, punctuation; ability to write and edit accurately, with clarity, without bias

Familiarity with analytics and ability to translate data into tactics and strategies

Strong working knowledge of Facebook, Instagram, X and other social platforms and ability to develop / follow best practices for social

Knowledge of SEO best practices and ability to research SEO and appropriately populate fields and headlines

An ability to multitask in a deadline-driven environment and adapt constructively to change

Adherence to editorial codes of ethics

Maintaining up-to-date skills on various digital platforms and keeping abreast of current events and newsmakers in news, sports and pop culture

Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience required

Who we are :

The Virginian-Pilot is an award-winning news organization reaching a growing audience across multiple platforms. We're dedicated to serving our readers with innovative journalism and fostering a collaborative environment where our journalists can thrive. The Virginian-Pilot delivers comprehensive news coverage across a vast region, from Richmond to the Outer Banks of North Carolina, including statewide and hyperlocal news. We strive for journalism that matters. Our reporters have earned national acclaim for their in-depth investigations and commitment to holding power to account. We cover a dynamic and diverse region in southeast Virginia, encompassing the world's largest Navy base, vibrant cities, sprawling suburbs, and miles of beautiful beaches.

EEO Statement :

We are 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.

How To Apply :

Please submit an online application along with your resume for this position here

Closing Date :

Continuous recruitment until the position is filled

Conditions of Employment :

A full pre-employment background check will be conducted as part of the selection process. Must be willing to submit and pass the necessary required checks

Must be available for shift work. May be required to work various hours for coverage outside of normal business hours

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